Welcome to the SAP Center, affectionately known as “The Shark Tank,” an iconic sports and entertainment venue in the heart of San Jose, California. Since opening its doors in 1993, this premier arena has served as the home of the National Hockey League's San Jose Sharks, where fans witness some of the most intense hockey action on the West Coast.
But the Shark Tank offers far more than just hockey. This versatile entertainment destination hosts an impressive array of events throughout the year, including chart-topping concerts, thrilling MMA fights, electrifying WWE spectacles, family shows, and world-class performances. With its state-of-the-art facilities and prime location in Silicon Valley, the SAP Center has established itself as one of the most sought-after venues on the West Coast for both sports and entertainment.
San Jose Sharks
For San Jose Sharks hockey games, the SAP Center accommodates 17,435 passionate fans, creating one of the most intimidating atmospheres in the NHL. This substantial capacity allows the Sharks faithful to generate deafening noise levels that have earned the arena its fearsome “Shark Tank” nickname, providing the home team with a distinct competitive advantage.
The arena's design ensures excellent sightlines from every seat, with steep seating angles that bring fans closer to the action. Whether you're watching from the lower bowl or upper deck, the SAP Center delivers an immersive hockey experience that showcases why it's considered one of the premier NHL venues in North America.
SAP Center Capacity
The SAP Center's flexible configuration allows it to host various events with different seating capacities:
- Basketball: 18,543
- Concerts: Up to 19,190
This adaptability makes the venue ideal for everything from intimate performances to massive arena shows, ensuring optimal viewing experiences regardless of the event type.
Nearby Stadiums
Just 10 miles northwest in Santa Clara, Levi's Stadium complements the region's impressive sports infrastructure. Home to the San Francisco 49ers, this cutting-edge 68,500-seat stadium hosts NFL games, major concerts, and marquee events. The proximity of these two world-class venues has transformed the South Bay into a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and entertainment seekers, offering year-round access to elite sporting events and performances.
SAP Center Tickets
Securing tickets to SAP Center events is simple and convenient. Ticketmaster serves as the official ticketing partner, offering the most comprehensive selection of tickets for San Jose Sharks games, concerts, and special events. The platform provides an easy-to-navigate interface where you can view seating charts, compare prices, and select the perfect seats for your experience.
For additional options, secondary marketplaces like StubHub and SeatGeek offer alternative purchasing opportunities. These platforms are particularly useful for sold-out events or when seeking specific seating locations. Both primary and secondary ticket sources provide secure transactions and mobile ticket delivery, ensuring a hassle-free experience from purchase to entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
SAP Center Address
525 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, CA 95113
What is the quickest way to get to the SAP Center?
The most convenient option for visitors from San Francisco and Peninsula cities is Caltrain, which stops at Diridon Station just steps from the arena. Special Sharks service ensures the last train departs 15 minutes after games end, no later than 10:30 PM. For local travelers, the venue is easily accessible via Highway 87 and offers multiple parking options nearby.
Is there bus service to the SAP Center?
Yes, VTA (Valley Transportation Authority) provides extensive bus service to the SAP Center via Diridon Station. Multiple bus lines connect the arena to destinations throughout San Jose and surrounding communities, making public transportation an affordable and convenient option for event attendees.
What is the SAP Center bag policy?
The SAP Center enforces a strict bag policy for security purposes. All bags and purses must not exceed 5 inches x 9 inches x 2 inches. Larger bags are prohibited, so plan accordingly before attending events. For complete details and exceptions, visit our comprehensive guide to the SAP Center bag policy.