
Hilton Coliseum Ames Iowa
Iconic 14,356-seat arena famous for its electrifying 'Hilton Magic' atmosphere, especially during Iowa State Cyclones games.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Electric game day vibes

Hilton Coliseum Ames Iowa
Best Time
Electric game day vibes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 14,356-seat arena famous for its electrifying 'Hilton Magic' atmosphere, especially during Iowa State Cyclones games.
"You feel the sounds in your bones and the echo of the crowd really bring the whole experience together!"

🎯 Use CyRide for Events
Beat parking hassles! CyRide is a great way to get to Hilton Coliseum, especially from areas like Hy-Vee. 🚌
🏟️ No Bad Seats Here!
Enjoy fantastic views from almost anywhere in the arena. The sightlines are excellent for all events. 👀

Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 1,331 reviews
Type
Arena
Website
cyclones.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iowa State Cyclones Basketball
Main Arena
Experience the thrill of college basketball in one of the nation's best atmospheres. Feel the 'Hilton Magic' firsthand!

Wrestling Matches
Main Arena
Witness intense collegiate wrestling action. The intimate setting amplifies the raw power and strategy of the sport.

Volleyball Games
Main Arena
Cheer on the Cyclones in fast-paced volleyball matches. The acoustics in Hilton Coliseum make for an engaging spectator experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Game Day Parking Strategy
Embrace the Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
parking tips for iowa state cyclones men's basketball vs. alcorn state braves mens basketball at hilton coliseum (ames ia 12/03)
figured i'd share some parking tips for the cyclones game on monday, 12/03. a 7:00 pm tip-off on a weekday is honestly the worst for traffic because you're hitting the tail end of rush hour right when everyone is trying to arrive, plus they have ongoing cydtown construction that…
🎯 Use CyRide for Events
Beat parking hassles! CyRide is a great way to get to Hilton Coliseum, especially from areas like Hy-Vee. 🚌
🏟️ No Bad Seats Here!
Enjoy fantastic views from almost anywhere in the arena. The sightlines are excellent for all events. 👀
parking tips for iowa state cyclones women's basketball vs northern illinois huskies at hilton coliseum (ames 12/07)
hey cyclonenation, figured i'd share some parking advice for the women's game this sunday, 12/07, at 1:00 pm. even for a women's game, parking around hilton coliseum can be a total mess, especially getting out after the game ends. honestly, the best thing i've found is…
Parking Guide for Iowa State vs St. Thomas at Hilton Coliseum (Nov 3, 2025)
hey figured i'd share some parking tips for the iowa state women's basketball game against st thomas on monday morning. an 11am start time on a weekday changes things up a bit with campus classes in session so hopefully this helps someone out. honestly the easiest way to…
🔊 Feel the 'Hilton Magic'
Immerse yourself in the incredible acoustics and crowd energy. It's a truly visceral experience! :musical_note:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
For popular games and events, securing your tickets early is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. 🎟️
Nearby location(s) to run ‘stadiums’
Relatively new to the area. The last town I lived in, the university left the football stadium open so residents could run stadiums, using the numerous flights of stairs. For a quick and intense workout. ISU doesn’t leave the stadium open for use. Are there any other places…
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use CyRide for Events
Beat parking hassles! CyRide is a great way to get to Hilton Coliseum, especially from areas like Hy-Vee. 🚌
🏟️ No Bad Seats Here!
Enjoy fantastic views from almost anywhere in the arena. The sightlines are excellent for all events. 👀
🔊 Feel the 'Hilton Magic'
Immerse yourself in the incredible acoustics and crowd energy. It's a truly visceral experience! :musical_note:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
For popular games and events, securing your tickets early is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. 🎟️
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You might do some walking to your seats or around the concourse, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hilton Coliseum for its incredible atmosphere, often dubbed 'Hilton Magic,' and excellent sightlines, making it a top destination for Iowa State Cyclones games. The venue is lauded for its energetic crowd and immersive sound experience, though parking can be a challenge during peak events.
"Hilton Magic is so real! It is an incredible venue! I don't think there is a bad view in the entire building. You feel the sounds in your bones and the echo of the crowd really bring the whole experience together!"
Austin Kinnetz
"The place to be to watch the iowa state men's basketball team play. Also wrestling matches and volleyball. Music concerts as well."
Craig Brophy
"This place is a landmark
I've watched a lot of great games in this arena. One of the better college atmospheres in the nation."
Shane Havick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hilton Coliseum is located at 1435 Center Drive, Ames, IA 50011. If you're driving, be aware of event parking. Many visitors opt for the CyRide bus system, which is a convenient and often free way to reach the coliseum from various points in Ames, including areas near Hy-Vee.
Parking availability and cost can vary significantly depending on the event. For major sporting events, parking lots fill up quickly and may require a fee. Consider checking the Iowa State Athletics website for specific event parking information.
Yes, the CyRide bus system serves Hilton Coliseum. It's a popular and practical option for students and residents attending events, offering routes that connect to many parts of Ames.
Yes, drop-off and pick-up points are usually available near the main entrances, which can be a good option if you're using ride-sharing services or being dropped off by a friend. Check event-specific guidelines for designated areas.
Hilton Coliseum is located on the Iowa State University campus, which is adjacent to downtown Ames. Depending on your starting point, it's typically a short drive or a moderate bike ride away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased through the official Iowa State Athletics website, Ticketmaster, or at the Hilton Coliseum box office. For popular events, it's advisable to buy in advance.
Operating hours vary greatly depending on scheduled events. The box office hours are usually limited to event days or specific weekday hours. Always check the official schedule for event times.
Generally, there are no age restrictions for entry to most events, but children may require a ticket depending on their age and the event. It's best to check the specific event's policy.
Hilton Coliseum typically adheres to clear bag policies similar to many sporting venues. Small clutch purses are usually allowed, but larger bags may be prohibited. Check the Iowa State Athletics website for the most current bag policy.
Refund policies are determined by the ticket vendor and the event organizer. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless an event is canceled or rescheduled. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors report that there isn't a bad seat in the house, thanks to excellent sightlines. For basketball, lower bowl seats closer to center court offer a great view of the action.
Concession stands offer typical arena fare like hot dogs, popcorn, and beverages. Vending machines are also available.
Yes, Hilton Coliseum is equipped with accessible seating, restrooms, and elevators to accommodate guests with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the venue in advance for specific needs.
Personal photography is usually permitted, but professional cameras with large lenses and video recording may be restricted. Always check the specific event's photography policy.
The atmosphere is legendary! Expect a loud, energetic crowd that creates an intense home-court advantage, often referred to as 'Hilton Magic.'






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit