Jump to content

Wells Fargo Center: Difference between revisions

From Philadelphia.Wiki
VisualWikitext
Gritty (talk | contribs)
1,361 edits
Automated upload via Philadelphia.Wiki content pipeline
 
Gritty (talk | contribs)
1,361 edits
Automated upload via Philadelphia.Wiki content pipeline
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
| name = Wells Fargo Center
| name = Wells Fargo Center
| image =
| image_caption = Wells Fargo Center exterior
| type = Arena
| type = Arena
| address = 3601 South Broad Street
| address = 3601 South Broad Street
| neighborhood = South Philadelphia
| neighborhood = South Philadelphia
| coordinates = 39.9012,-75.1720
| phone = (215) 336-3600
| phone = (215) 336-3600
| website = https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com
| website = https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com
| established = 1996
| established = 1996
| capacity = 20,478 (basketball), 19,537 (hockey)
| founder = Comcast Spectacor
| public_transit = NRG Station (Broad Street Line)
| owner = Comcast Spectacor
| employees =
| hours = Event days
| products = Basketball, hockey, concerts, events
| status = Active
}}
}}


The '''Wells Fargo Center''' is a multi-purpose indoor arena in the [[South Philadelphia Sports Complex]], serving as the home of the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] (NBA), [[Philadelphia Flyers]] (NHL), and Philadelphia Wings (NLL). Opened in 1996 as CoreStates Center, the arena replaced the beloved [[Spectrum]] and has hosted countless sports events, concerts, and major events.<ref name="wfc">{{cite web |url=https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com |title=Wells Fargo Center |publisher=Wells Fargo Center |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>
'''Wells Fargo Center''' is a multi-purpose indoor arena located at 3601 South Broad Street in the '''South Philadelphia Sports Complex'''. The arena serves as the home of the '''[[Philadelphia 76ers]]''' of the NBA, the '''[[Philadelphia Flyers]]''' of the NHL, the '''Philadelphia Wings''' of the National Lacrosse League, and the '''Philadelphia Soul''' (formerly) of the Arena Football League. With a seating capacity of approximately 19,500 for basketball and 19,000 for hockey, the arena is one of the busiest event venues on the East Coast.<ref name="wfc">{{cite web |url=https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com/about |title=About Wells Fargo Center |publisher=Wells Fargo Center |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>
 
Opened in 1996 as the CoreStates Center, the arena was designed by Ellerbe Becket and built to replace the Spectrum, which served Philadelphia's basketball and hockey teams from 1967 to 1996. The venue has hosted NBA All-Star Games, NHL Winter Classics, NCAA tournament games, major concerts, WWE events, and the 2016 Democratic National Convention.<ref name="history">{{cite web |url=https://philadelphiaencyclopedia.org/essays/wells-fargo-center/ |title=Wells Fargo Center |publisher=Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==


=== Construction and Opening ===
=== The Spectrum ===


* '''1994*** — Groundbreaking
Philadelphia's teams played at '''The Spectrum''' from 1967 to 1996. The Spectrum was legendary for its atmosphere and the successes of the "Broad Street Bullies" Flyers (Stanley Cup champions 1974 and 1975) and the 1983 championship 76ers. However, by the 1990s, the arena lacked modern amenities and revenue-generating luxury suites.
* '''1996*** — Opened as CoreStates Center
* '''Cost*** — $210 million
* '''Replaced*** — The Spectrum (1967-1996)
* '''Owner*** — Comcast Spectacor


=== Name Changes ===
=== Construction ===


The arena has had multiple names:
Comcast Spectacor (led by Ed Snider) built the new arena for approximately $210 million. The arena opened as the '''CoreStates Center''' on August 31, 1996, with a Gloria Estefan concert.


* '''CoreStates Center*** — 1996-1998
=== Name Changes ===
* '''First Union Center*** — 1998-2003
* '''Wachovia Center*** — 2003-2010
* '''Wells Fargo Center*** — 2010-present


Each name change reflected banking mergers.
The arena has undergone several name changes:
* '''CoreStates Center''' (1996-1998)
* '''First Union Center''' (1998-2003)
* '''Wachovia Center''' (2003-2010)
* '''Wells Fargo Center''' (2010-present)


=== Renovations ===
=== Major Renovations ===


Major updates have modernized the venue:
A $300 million renovation from 2019 to 2023 transformed the arena:
* New center-hung video board (largest in North American sports)
* Upgraded club and suite areas
* Improved concourse spaces
* Enhanced food and beverage options
* New lighting and sound systems


* '''2019*** — $250 million "Transformation" began
== Arena Features ==
* New video board (largest in NBA)
* Updated concourses
* Premium seating options
* Modern amenities
* Club areas and restaurants


== Features ==
=== Seating ===


=== Capacity ===
{| class="wikitable"
! Configuration !! Capacity
|-
| Basketball || ~19,500
|-
| Hockey || ~19,000
|-
| Concert (end stage) || Up to 21,000
|-
| Concert (center stage) || Up to 20,000
|}


* '''Basketball*** — 20,478
=== Video Board ===
* '''Hockey*** — 19,537
* '''Concerts*** — Varies (up to 21,000)
* '''Multiple configurations*** for different events


=== Modern Amenities ===
The new center-hung scoreboard, installed in 2019, is the '''largest in North American sports venues''':
* 65 feet tall
* Over 13,000 square feet of LED screen
* Provides immersive viewing experience


Post-renovation features:
=== Premium Seating ===


* '''Kinetic 4K Scoreboard*** — Among largest in sports
* '''Luxury Suites:''' Private suites with catering
* '''Upgraded concourses*** — Better food and flow
* '''Club Level:''' Upscale seating with lounge access
* '''Club areas*** — Premium experiences
* '''Loge Boxes:''' Premium seating near the action
* '''Improved acoustics***
* '''Courtside/Rinkside:''' Premium floor-level seats
* '''Enhanced technology***


== Teams ==
== Sports Teams ==


=== Philadelphia 76ers ===
=== Philadelphia 76ers ===


* NBA franchise
The '''76ers''' have played at Wells Fargo Center since 1996. The team last won an NBA championship in 1983 (at the Spectrum) and has featured stars including Allen Iverson, Joel Embiid, and James Harden.
* 82 regular season games
* Playoff home games
* All-Star appearances hosted


=== Philadelphia Flyers ===
=== Philadelphia Flyers ===


* NHL franchise
The '''Flyers''' moved to the arena in 1996 after three decades at the Spectrum. The team's passionate fanbase fills the arena for hockey season, though the team last won the Stanley Cup in 1975.
* Home ice since 1996
* Orange and black dominate arena
* Gritty's home


=== Philadelphia Wings ===
=== Other Teams ===


* National Lacrosse League
* '''Philadelphia Wings:''' National Lacrosse League
* Indoor lacrosse
* '''Villanova Wildcats:''' Select basketball games


== Atmosphere ==
== Attending an Event ==


=== Sixers Games ===
=== Getting There ===


* Blue, white, and red
* '''SEPTA Broad Street Line:''' NRG Station (AT&T Station)—direct subway access
* "Here Come the Sixers" tradition
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Route 4, 17, G
* Trust the Process era brought intensity
* '''Parking:''' Large lots surrounding arena ($15-30 depending on event)
* Passionate basketball crowds
* '''Walking:''' Adjacent to [[Citizens Bank Park]] and [[Lincoln Financial Field]]


=== Flyers Games ===
=== Game Day Tips ===


* Orange and black everywhere
* '''Arrive early:''' Security screening can create lines
* '''Gritty*** — Beloved mascot adds chaos
* '''Know your entrance:''' Gates are numbered
* '''"Fly Flyers Fly"*** — Goal song
* '''Cash and cards:''' Most concessions accept both
* Physical hockey reflects fan intensity
* '''Public transit:''' Highly recommended to avoid parking congestion


== Major Events ==
=== Food and Beverage ===


=== Sports ===
Post-renovation, the arena features:
* Local Philadelphia restaurants (Campo's, Federal Donuts)
* Premium club dining
* Craft beer selections
* Diverse concession options


* '''NBA All-Star Weekend*** — Multiple times
== Beyond Sports ==
* '''NHL Draft*** — 2014
 
* '''WWE WrestleMania*** — Nearby events
Wells Fargo Center hosts approximately 250 events annually:
* '''NCAA Tournament*** — Basketball rounds
* '''Boxing*** — Major fights
* '''UFC***


=== Concerts ===
=== Concerts ===
 
Major touring acts regularly perform, including:
World-class touring acts:
 
* Bruce Springsteen
* Bruce Springsteen
* Taylor Swift
* Taylor Swift
* Beyoncé
* Billy Joel
* Billy Joel
* U2
* Various arena tours
* Elton John
* Many others
 
=== Other Events ===
 
* '''Democratic National Convention*** — 2016
* '''Papal visit*** — 2015
* '''Disney on Ice***
* '''Cirque du Soleil***
* '''Monster Jam***
 
== Visiting ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Detail !! Information
|-
| '''Address''' || 3601 South Broad Street
|-
| '''Parking''' || Lots surrounding arena
|-
| '''Public transit''' || NRG Station (Broad Street Line)
|-
| '''Dining''' || Multiple options inside
|}
 
=== Tips ===
 
* Broad Street Line is easiest access
* Arrive early for premium concourse food
* Flyers and Sixers merchandise shops
* Gritty sightings if Flyers playing
* Security screening required


== Getting There ==
=== Special Events ===
 
* '''WWE:''' Wrestling events including WrestleMania
=== Public Transit ===
* '''Circus:''' Ringling Bros. (historically)
 
* '''Family shows:''' Disney on Ice, Monster Jam
* '''SEPTA Broad Street Line*** — NRG Station
* '''Conventions:''' Including 2016 Democratic National Convention
* '''Direct access*** — Station adjacent to arena
* '''Extra trains*** — Event nights
 
=== Driving ===
 
* '''I-95*** — Exit for Sports Complex
* '''Parking*** — $20-40 depending on event
* '''Traffic*** — Heavy for popular events
 
== The Spectrum (Predecessor) ==
 
The Wells Fargo Center replaced The Spectrum:
 
* '''1967-2009*** — Operated as arena
* '''Flyers home*** — Both Stanley Cups (1974, 1975)
* '''76ers home*** — 1983 championship
* '''Legendary concerts*** — The Grateful Dead, etc.
* '''Demolished*** — 2011
* '''Beloved*** — Many fans preferred its intimacy
 
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
 
{{FAQ
|q1=What is the capacity of Wells Fargo Center?
|a1=Wells Fargo Center seats 20,478 for basketball (76ers) and 19,537 for hockey (Flyers). Concert capacity varies but can reach 21,000. The arena opened in 1996 and underwent major renovations in 2019.
 
|q2=How do I get to Wells Fargo Center?
|a2=The easiest way is SEPTA's Broad Street Line to NRG Station, which is directly adjacent to the arena. If driving, expect to pay $20-40 for parking depending on the event. The arena is in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
 
|q3=What teams play at Wells Fargo Center?
|a3=The Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), and Philadelphia Wings (NLL lacrosse) all play at Wells Fargo Center. The arena also hosts major concerts, WWE events, and other entertainment.
 
|q4=What happened to The Spectrum?
|a4=The Spectrum (1967-2009) was the previous home of the Flyers and 76ers, and where both Flyers Stanley Cups and the 1983 Sixers championship were won. It was demolished in 2011. Many fans still miss its intimate atmosphere.
}}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
Line 200: Line 139:
* [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
* [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
* [[Philadelphia Flyers]]
* [[Philadelphia Flyers]]
* [[South Philadelphia Sports Complex]]
* [[South Philadelphia]]
* [[The Spectrum]]
* [[Lincoln Financial Field]]
* [[Citizens Bank Park]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 208: Line 148:
== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com Official Website]
* [https://www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com Wells Fargo Center Official Website]
* [https://www.nba.com/sixers Philadelphia 76ers]
* [https://www.nhl.com/flyers Philadelphia Flyers]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Wells Fargo Center - Home of the 76ers and Flyers
|title=Wells Fargo Center - Home of the 76ers and Flyers
|description=Wells Fargo Center is the home arena for the Philadelphia 76ers and Flyers in South Philadelphia. Concerts, sports, and events in this modern venue.
|description=Complete guide to Wells Fargo Center, home of the Philadelphia 76ers and Flyers. Arena information, how to get there, events, and visitor guide for South Philadelphia's premier indoor venue.
|keywords=Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, arena, South Philadelphia Sports Complex, concerts, Gritty
|keywords=Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia 76ers arena, Philadelphia Flyers arena, South Philadelphia Sports Complex, SEPTA to Wells Fargo Center, concerts Philadelphia arena, 76ers tickets, Flyers tickets
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Sports]]
[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Stadiums]]
[[Category:Sports Venues]]
[[Category:South Philadelphia]]
[[Category:South Philadelphia]]
[[Category:Philadelphia 76ers]]
[[Category:Philadelphia 76ers]]
[[Category:Philadelphia Flyers]]
[[Category:Philadelphia Flyers]]

Latest revision as of 21:04, 30 December 2025

Wells Fargo Center
TypeArena
Address3601 South Broad Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodSouth Philadelphia
Phone(215) 336-3600
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1996
FounderComcast Spectacor
OwnerComcast Spectacor
HoursEvent days
ProductsBasketball, hockey, concerts, events
StatusActive
Wells Fargo Center(215) 336-36003601 South Broad StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

Wells Fargo Center is a multi-purpose indoor arena located at 3601 South Broad Street in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. The arena serves as the home of the Philadelphia 76ers of the NBA, the Philadelphia Flyers of the NHL, the Philadelphia Wings of the National Lacrosse League, and the Philadelphia Soul (formerly) of the Arena Football League. With a seating capacity of approximately 19,500 for basketball and 19,000 for hockey, the arena is one of the busiest event venues on the East Coast.[1]

Opened in 1996 as the CoreStates Center, the arena was designed by Ellerbe Becket and built to replace the Spectrum, which served Philadelphia's basketball and hockey teams from 1967 to 1996. The venue has hosted NBA All-Star Games, NHL Winter Classics, NCAA tournament games, major concerts, WWE events, and the 2016 Democratic National Convention.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

The Spectrum

[edit | edit source]

Philadelphia's teams played at The Spectrum from 1967 to 1996. The Spectrum was legendary for its atmosphere and the successes of the "Broad Street Bullies" Flyers (Stanley Cup champions 1974 and 1975) and the 1983 championship 76ers. However, by the 1990s, the arena lacked modern amenities and revenue-generating luxury suites.

Construction

[edit | edit source]

Comcast Spectacor (led by Ed Snider) built the new arena for approximately $210 million. The arena opened as the CoreStates Center on August 31, 1996, with a Gloria Estefan concert.

Name Changes

[edit | edit source]

The arena has undergone several name changes:

  • CoreStates Center (1996-1998)
  • First Union Center (1998-2003)
  • Wachovia Center (2003-2010)
  • Wells Fargo Center (2010-present)

Major Renovations

[edit | edit source]

A $300 million renovation from 2019 to 2023 transformed the arena:

  • New center-hung video board (largest in North American sports)
  • Upgraded club and suite areas
  • Improved concourse spaces
  • Enhanced food and beverage options
  • New lighting and sound systems

Arena Features

[edit | edit source]

Seating

[edit | edit source]
Configuration Capacity
Basketball ~19,500
Hockey ~19,000
Concert (end stage) Up to 21,000
Concert (center stage) Up to 20,000

Video Board

[edit | edit source]

The new center-hung scoreboard, installed in 2019, is the largest in North American sports venues:

  • 65 feet tall
  • Over 13,000 square feet of LED screen
  • Provides immersive viewing experience

Premium Seating

[edit | edit source]
  • Luxury Suites: Private suites with catering
  • Club Level: Upscale seating with lounge access
  • Loge Boxes: Premium seating near the action
  • Courtside/Rinkside: Premium floor-level seats

Sports Teams

[edit | edit source]

Philadelphia 76ers

[edit | edit source]

The 76ers have played at Wells Fargo Center since 1996. The team last won an NBA championship in 1983 (at the Spectrum) and has featured stars including Allen Iverson, Joel Embiid, and James Harden.

Philadelphia Flyers

[edit | edit source]

The Flyers moved to the arena in 1996 after three decades at the Spectrum. The team's passionate fanbase fills the arena for hockey season, though the team last won the Stanley Cup in 1975.

Other Teams

[edit | edit source]
  • Philadelphia Wings: National Lacrosse League
  • Villanova Wildcats: Select basketball games

Attending an Event

[edit | edit source]

Getting There

[edit | edit source]
  • SEPTA Broad Street Line: NRG Station (AT&T Station)—direct subway access
  • SEPTA Bus: Route 4, 17, G
  • Parking: Large lots surrounding arena ($15-30 depending on event)
  • Walking: Adjacent to Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field

Game Day Tips

[edit | edit source]
  • Arrive early: Security screening can create lines
  • Know your entrance: Gates are numbered
  • Cash and cards: Most concessions accept both
  • Public transit: Highly recommended to avoid parking congestion

Food and Beverage

[edit | edit source]

Post-renovation, the arena features:

  • Local Philadelphia restaurants (Campo's, Federal Donuts)
  • Premium club dining
  • Craft beer selections
  • Diverse concession options

Beyond Sports

[edit | edit source]

Wells Fargo Center hosts approximately 250 events annually:

Concerts

[edit | edit source]

Major touring acts regularly perform, including:

  • Bruce Springsteen
  • Taylor Swift
  • Billy Joel
  • Various arena tours

Special Events

[edit | edit source]
  • WWE: Wrestling events including WrestleMania
  • Circus: Ringling Bros. (historically)
  • Family shows: Disney on Ice, Monster Jam
  • Conventions: Including 2016 Democratic National Convention

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "About Wells Fargo Center". Wells Fargo Center. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Wells Fargo Center". Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
[edit | edit source]
Retrieved from "https://philadelphia.wiki/index.php?title=Wells_Fargo_Center&oldid=932"