Bill Graham Civic Auditorium Tickets

Bill Graham

The Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, better known as just the Bill Graham to those in the know, is an 8,500-seat indoor multi-use arena nestled in the heart of San Francisco. Named after the legendary promoter and impresario Bill Graham, a man who once escaped from Nazi Germany and then went on to put legendary West Coast concert halls like the Fillmore and the Winterland Arena on the map, you know this concert venue is ready to rock.

 

The History of the Bill Graham

Built originally as part of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium actually never had a show put on by its namesake. In fact, up until it was renamed in Graham’s honor in 1992 (a year after the promoter’s death), the place was known simply as the San Francisco Civic Auditorium.

Despite the lack of Graham’s involvement, this venue has always rocked. From its early days as the site of the San Francisco Opera, the one-time home of the San Francisco Warriors, and the site of incredible acts for generations, this site has kept up with the Joneses like no other. It’s been renovated countless times over the decades, has received addons like an underground expansion, and has been thoroughly modernized to keep up with the demands of 21st-century music acts.

 

What Makes Bill Graham Events So Special?

Bill Graham is the no-holds-barred, bona fide heart of San Francisco culture and has been for more than a century. Attending an event at this venue is stepping right into the pages of history. You’re standing in the same place countless people have, from your everyday music fans to people like the Dalai Lama, Martin Luther King Jr, and Barack Obama. That’s pretty freaking special.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bill Graham located?

Named after promoter Bill Graham, this multi-purpose arena is located in San Francisco, Califonia.

 

What kind of events does Bill Graham host?

Who hasn’t played at Bill Graham events? This venue is legendary because of its massive history. Headlining acts like Elvis, Judy Garland, Ray Charles, Jefferson Airplane, Bobby Darin, and more historic acts than you can shake a stick at. Today, there are even more big names that have graced the stage at the Bill Graham, and we’re talking thoroughly modern acts like Die Antwoord, DEADMAU5, Sturgill Simpson, Mackelmore, Lady Gaga, Lana Del Rey, the Smashing Pumpkins — if you’re anyone, you’ve got to play the Bill Graham when you’re in town.

 

Which team is playing at Bill Graham?

Currently, no team plays here. However, in the past, the San Francisco Warriors (NBA) called this arena their home. 

 

Where can I park for free at Bill Graham?

There is limited parking around the arena, therefore, it is recommended to carpool or use public transport. However, if you must drive, there are a number of public parking lots in the surrounding area, just a short walk away. These lots differ in prices, so plan accordingly.

 

What is the seating capacity of Bill Graham?

Bill Graham events can hold up to 8,500 guests. 

 

Who owns Bill Graham?

The arena is owned by the City of San Francisco. 

 

How do I get to Bill Graham using public transport?

If you wish to avoid the hassle fo parking at Bill Graham events, the BART, MUNI, and Metro all serve the arena, just exit at the Civic Center Station - which is a short walk away from the arena. You can also hop on the CALTRAIN to Van Ness and Hayes Street, or bike!