Your Complete Guide to March Madness Tickets

This article was originally published on Mar 9, 2022 and was updated on Mar 13, 2026.

College basketball's favorite month of the year is back, and we have all the info you need to follow your team all the way to the 'ship.

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The Big Dance is almost upon us! The NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off on March 15th with Selection Sunday, and fans across the country are already scooping up tickets in hopes that their team will prevail on The Road to the Final Four. Whether you majored in bracketology or make your picks based on whose mascot would win in a fistfight, it's a month of crazy fun competition that even the most casual basketball fan can get behind.

But while you're intricately researching and planning ahead for your best bracket ever, you might want to hold off on grabbing tickets and save yourself some cash. After all, it's called madness for a reason — and there are bound to be upsets and underdogs that not only surprise us all but also impact ticket prices from coast to coast. When a favorite gets suddenly knocked out, your wallet will be glad you waited. 

Hoping to live out your college hoop dreams? In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about how do March Madness tickets work: 

• March Madness 2026 Ticket Types

• Full March Madness Bracket Schedule

• When to Buy March Madness Tickets

• Why Buy from Gametime

• The Final Four Schedule of Events

• The Final Four Experience (accommodations, food + drink, transportation)

TL;DR: We've got your back when it comes to March Madness tickets and how march madness tickets work.

March Madness Ticket Types

Before we dive into the different ticket types, let's understand how March Madness tickets work. March Madness tickets are as unique as the tournament itself, with a handful of options to get into the game. While you can purchase directly from the NCAA, all tickets sold through their website include the "Official NCAA Experience," a hospitality upgrade that includes private lounge access, food, and drink. If you don't want to fork over the extra cash for VIP add-ons, you can still purchase tickets to any round of the tournament from a trusted reseller like Gametime. Just don't jump the gun too early — ticket prices are likely to fluctuate based on which teams progress through the tournament, so we recommend waiting until the last minute to grab your tickets. 

• Session TicketsFor most of the tournament, you won't have the ability to purchase individual game tickets, so you'll likely want to grab a session ticket. Each session consists of two games, and each venue hosts three sessions. If you buy a session ticket, you’ll have access to two games at a given venue.

• All-Session TicketsAlso called full strip tickets, all-session tickets include three separate sessions — six games in total — at one tournament location. Though they're more expensive, all-session tickets are generally the most cost-effective option if you plan to attend every game at a certain venue.

• Final Four TicketsThe Final Four tickets consist of the last two rounds of the tournament, including two semifinal games and the National Championship. For these rounds, fans can pick up either individual game tickets or an all-session package to see both semifinal games and the championship game.

March Madness Schedule

The competition kicks off with Selection Sunday on March 15th, when a special committee announces the 68 teams that will play in the tournament. With 67 games happening over the following three weeks, the schedule is tight and the madness is real. Want to get in on the action? Check out the full March Madness schedule on Gametime.

When to Buy March Madness Tickets

If you're a college basketball fan, you're probably wonderinghow to get cheap March Madness tickets. But it's not just about where you buy tickets — your timing is important, too. As with any other big game, NCAA ticket prices tend to drop as each match-up approaches. Keep in mind that the Big Dance is a single-elimination, one-and-done tournament, and you'll still be on the hook for your tickets even if your team is knocked out in the first round. We recommend that you wait until later in the tournament to get your March Madness or Final Four tickets, so you can be sure you're pumped about the match-up. 

With that said, in the case of tournaments like March Madness, ticket prices fluctuate significantly as teams are eliminated and unexpected upsets happen. If you see a price you're comfortable paying (no matter which teams are playing), grab tickets now to avoid surprises. 

Tracking prices in the Gametime app? We recommend enabling All-In Pricing to view total costs including taxes and fees. Simply tap “My Tickets” in the app, click on your profile info at the top, and toggle All-In Pricing under Settings. By turning on this feature, you’ll see the full cost of tickets as you scroll through the app. (Note: you’ll need to create a Gametime account in order to adjust these settings.)

Why Buy from Gametime?

Final Four Schedule of Events

If you're heading to Indianapolis for the Final Four, be prepared for a full weekend of festivities. The semifinals are scheduled to go down on April 4th, while the grand finale takes place on April 6th. There will be plenty of action happening between games, though, so plan accordingly and take advantage of all that's going on. From live music to rowdy tailgates, the city will be abuzz with basketball fans, families, and yes – an abundance of college students embracing the "madness." 

NCAA Final Four fan events include:

Men's Final Four Dribble

On Sunday, April 5 at Carroll Stadium, the first 3,000 registered participants ages 18 and under, alongside their guardians, will dribble along a one-mile course through downtown Indianapolis, concluding at Victory Field. Participants receive an official Men’s Final Four Dribble Wilson basketball, branded t-shirt, and free entry into Fan Fest.

Men's Final Four Fan Fest presented by Capital One

Enjoy a sports wonderland of interactive games, special celebrity and athlete appearances, and autograph signings. Free entry for Capital One cardholders, Final Four ticket holders, kids 12 & under, active and non-active military (with ID), and college students (with valid ID). Want in? The first 2,000 fans to visit NCAA.com/mensfinalfour and use code TIPOFF26 score free tickets.

Reese's Men's Final Four Friday

On Friday, April 3, watch the four remaining teams in their final open practices at Lucas Oil Stadium. This free event also features the Reese’s NABC All-Star Game showcasing top senior student-athletes from around the country, plus entertainment and giveaways. 

Men's Final Four Tip-Off Tailgate

From April 3–6, head to Georgia Street in the heart of downtown Indianapolis for watch parties, team pep rallies, live music, interactive games, and great food and beverages. Free and open to fans of all ages.

March Madness Music Festival 

From Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5, catch local and big-name artists taking the stage at American Legion Mall in downtown Indianapolis. No ticket required — it’s completely free and open to the public.

* All times are local (EST). All events, times, and locations are subject to change.

Final Four Location

The City: Indianapolis, IN

The 2026 March Madness Final Four and Championship will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana – the self-proclaimed “Amateur Sports Capital of the World.” This compact, walkable downtown makes it one of the easiest host cities to navigate during tournament week. Indianapolis is no stranger to the spotlight: the city has hosted the Final Four a record nine times, making it the most experienced host city in tournament history. It’s also home to the Indy 500, the Big Ten Championship, and the 2012 Super Bowl.

The Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium

The Final Four and National Championship games will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. This world-class venue is home to the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts and seats approximately 67,000 fans. The stadium is widely regarded as one of the finest in the country, with a retractable roof that guarantees perfect conditions no matter the weather outside.

Lucas Oil Stadium is well-stocked with dining options to keep fans fueled through overtime. Beyond the classic hot dogs and nachos, the stadium’s concessions feature Indiana-inspired comfort food, premium grab-and-go options, and full-service bars throughout the bowl.

Among the dining options available, fan favorites include:

• Shapiro’s Deli

• Indy Brats & Dogs

• Victory Field Nachos

• Goose the Market Provisions

• Colts Bar & Grill

Final Four Accommodations

Take our advice and book your hotel ASAP – if they haven’t already, hotels near the stadium will most certainly sell out. Heads up that somg of the hotels are requiring a 4-night minimum during Final Four weekend. So, make the most of the weekend and stay the whole time (you might not have a choice!) 

Impromptu trip? Check out the HotelTonight app for last-minute deals near downtown Indianapolis, or search Airbnb for apartments and homes in the area.

Hotels Near Lucas Oil Stadium:

• JW Marriott IndianapolisAt 33 stories and over 1,000 guest rooms, the JW Marriott is one of the most impressive hotels in the Midwest. Connected to the Indiana Convention Center via skybridge, it’s supremely convenient for Final Four weekend. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of downtown Indy.

• Omni Severin HotelOne of Indianapolis’s most storied hotels, the Omni Severin has been welcoming guests since 1913 and is just a 6-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium. Expect elegant, old-world charm paired with modern amenities, a fantastic on-site restaurant, and a prime location in the heart of downtown.

• InterContinental IndianapolisJust a stone’s throw from the action, the InterContinental Indianapolis is a charming 4-star hotel offering an award winning restraunt option, rooftop bar, seasonal outdoor pool, and more. Guests can enjoy live music on-site, making it a great option for those looking for a cozy place to stay.

• TownePlace Suites by Marriott Indianapolis DowntownJust a 5-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, TownePlace Suites offers spacious accommodations with full kitchens, a fitness center, and a bar — perfect for groups or fans who want a little extra room to spread out during a long Final Four weekend.

Getting Around Indianapolis

Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, Lucas Oil Stadium is easily accessible whether you plan to walk, drive, or ride. For directions, parking passes, and public transit routes, visit thestadium website. Here are the easiest ways to get to the games:

• Public TransportationIndianapolis’s citywide bus network, known as IndyGo, offers routes throughout downtown and the surrounding metro area. Lucas Oil Stadium is easily reachable via multiple lines, and the compact downtown grid makes walking from most hotels a realistic option.

• Ride SharingAttendees can also catch a ride with Uber or Lyft, both of which are widely available in Indianapolis.

• DrivingThere are 7,000 parking spots available in official parking lots. As well as this, there are several public parking lots within walking distance of the stadium - with parking prices as low as $10. We recommend purchasing a parking pass in advance to save yourself from a pregame headache.

Eating & Drinking in Indianapolis 

While you’re in town for some basketball, you might as well check out the city’s incredible restaurant scene. Below a couple of our top recs. Let’s be clear that this list is not at all comprehensive, and there are so 👏 many 👏 spots 👏 in Indianapolis to indulge your food and drink snobbery. These are a good places to start:  

• St. Elmo Steak HouseA James Beard American Classic and Indianapolis institution since 1902, St. Elmo is steps from Lucas Oil Stadium. The famous shrimp cocktail and prime steaks are a rite of passage for any Final Four visitor. Book early — it sells out fast during tournament weekend.

• Tavern on SouthLocally owned and casually sophisticated, Tavern on South sits in the shadow of Lucas Oil Stadium and is exactly where you want to be before and after the games. Seasonally inspired menus, regional craft beers, and a warm Indy vibe make this a must-visit.

• Iaria's Italian RestaurantA family-owned Indianapolis landmark since 1933, Iaria’s Italian Restaurant serves up hearty, old-school Italian comfort food — think thin-crust pizza, chicken parm, and rich pasta sauces that have been perfected over generations. Perfect pregame fuel.

• ModitaChef Megan Stoller’s Bottleworks District gem took home Best Dish honors at Taste of Home, yet somehow remains approachable and affordable. Creative, globally-inspired small plates in a lively, modern setting — one of the most exciting restaurants in the city right now.

• Dusk LoungeAn elevated Mediterranean-inspired cocktail bar on Mass Ave with a hidden speakeasy lounge downstairs and a live DJ keeping the energy up. The perfect spot to celebrate (or commiserate) after the games.

• Astrea Rooftop BarStunning rooftop cocktail bar overlooking Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. Small plates, craft cocktails, and a live DJ make Astrea the perfect place to keep the celebration going after the buzzer sounds. Book a reservation — it fills up fast on big sports weekends.

March Madness Support

Have questions about How do March Madness tickets work orFinal Four tickets? Shoot us an email at feedback@gametime.co and we’ll touch base with an answer as soon as possible.