Crisler Center

The Crisler Center is an indoor sports venue that serves as the home for the Michigan Wolverines men’s and women’s basketball teams. The venue is located on campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It opened in 1967 and is named after longtime Michigan football coach Herbert “Fritz” Crisler, although is it often called “The House that Cazzie Built,” a reference to former Michigan basketball player Cazzie Russell. The Crisler Center also hosts concerts and other important events, including Michigan’s graduation. For basketball games, the arena has a capacity of over 12,000 fans.

What are the Best Places to sit at the Crisler Center?

For basketball games at the Crisler Center, ideal seats can be found in sections 104-106. These sections cover the middle section of the court and are opposite the team benches. Seats behind the benches are unavailable to most people because those areas are reserved for students. Meanwhile, sections 204-206 and 222-224 will put you close to the middle of the court but in the second level of the arena. This puts you further from the court but with a better view of the entire court.

Tips for visiting the Crisler Center

If possible, try to arrive a little early for a game at the Crisler Center. The concourse of the arena is an unofficial museum celebrating Michigan athletics, specifically basketball. There are posters of former players, trophy cases, and memorabilia celebrating the history of the program. After the arena’s recent renovations, the main entrance is also a sight to see, making it worthwhile to take in before a majority of the crowd arrives.

Food to Try at the Crisler Center

The food selection at the Crisler Center is akin to most modern sports venues. The arena has jumped on the bandwagon and now offers an Impossible Burger at several concession spots. The Street Eatz vendor has the most adventurous options, including a Vindaloo street taco, Korean BBQ street taco, and an Argentinean Gaucho street taco. There is also a wide array of mac & cheese options, including a grilled mac & cheese sandwich with pulled pork and mac & cheese bites with smoked gouda and bacon. There are also traditional stadium foods available with a Michigan twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Crisler Center located?

Crisler Center is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

What kind of events does Crisler Center host?

Crisler Center events are mainly focused on basketball. Sporting events aside, the venue does play host to various events like conferences, concerts, and graduation ceremonies. 

Which team is playing at Crisler Center?

The stadium serves as the home for the Michigan Wolverines men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Where can I park for free at Crisler Center?

Most Crisler Center parking lots are for permit holders only. However, there are some parking options for Crisler Center events attendees in the surrounding area, where parking prices range from $10-20. 

What is the seating capacity of Crisler Center?

Crisler Center sporting events can host over 13,000 cheering fans. 

Who owns Crisler Center?

Crisler Center is owned by the University of Michigan.

How do I get to Crisler Center using public transport?

Fans wishing to reach Crisler Center events by public transport are in luck. From busses to the university’s shuttle service fans have a number of options at their disposal.