KFC Yum! Center

Located in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky, the KFC Yum! Center stands as a beacon of excitement and entertainment. This multi-purpose indoor arena, named after the iconic KFC restaurant chain and its parent company Yum! Brands, has become a cornerstone of the city's vibrant cultural and sports scene since its opening on October 10, 2010. Nestled adjacent to the picturesque Ohio River waterfront, the KFC Yum! Center is more than just an arena; it's a symbol of Louisville's commitment to providing world-class entertainment and sporting events.

The History of KFC Yum! Center

The journey to the creation of the KFC Yum! Center was marked by a series of significant decisions and developments. Early planning stages saw the arena's potential locations narrowed down to two sites: one owned by the Louisville Water Company and another by Louisville Gas & Electric (LG&E) along the waterfront. In March 2006, a pivotal moment occurred when then-University of Louisville men's basketball coach Rick Pitino expressed his preference for the LG&E site, a sentiment echoed by Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher. This decision was driven by the belief that the waterfront location would maximize economic development opportunities for the state.

By April 2006, the Louisville Arena Authority unveiled the design for the new arena, which included an increase in seating capacity from 19,000 to 22,000, a sports bar with views of the Ohio River, and a public plaza along Main Street. The design also incorporated energy-saving elements, public art, and year-round uses for the facility. Despite initial plans to include a hotel, it was ultimately removed from the project to allow for a wider plaza and additional design flexibility.

Features of the Arena

The KFC Yum! Center boasts an array of features that make it a premier destination for sports and entertainment. With a seating capacity of 22,090 for basketball, it is the largest arena in the United States designed primarily for this sport. The arena also includes an integrated scoring and video display system, featuring large LED video displays within the seating bowl, provided by Daktronics.

One of the standout features of the KFC Yum! Center is its versatility. While it serves as the home court for the University of Louisville Cardinals men's and women's basketball teams, it also hosts a variety of other events, from concerts to conventions. The arena's current attendance record for a sporting event was set on March 9, 2013, when 22,815 fans watched the Cardinals take on Notre Dame. For non-sporting events, the record was set by Metallica's WorldWired Tour on March 9, 2019, with an audience of 23,085.

Exploring the KFC Yum! Center

Visitors to the KFC Yum! Center are greeted by a modern and inviting atmosphere. The main concourse features a sports bar open year-round, offering stunning views of the Ohio River. The arena's design prioritizes comfort and accessibility, with wider seats and ample amenities to enhance the visitor experience.

For sports enthusiasts, attending a University of Louisville basketball game at the KFC Yum! Center is a must. The electric atmosphere, combined with the state-of-the-art facilities, makes for an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the arena has hosted the Louisville Xtreme of the Indoor Football League, further showcasing its versatility as a multi-purpose venue.

The Economic Impact

The construction of the KFC Yum! Center was part of a $450 million project that included a 975-car parking structure and a floodwall. The arena's financing involved a combination of tax-increment financing, city pledges, interior advertising, facility fees, luxury suite revenues, and naming rights. This comprehensive approach ensured the arena's financial viability and minimized the burden on local taxpayers.

Since its opening, the KFC Yum! Center has had a significant economic impact on downtown Louisville. The arena has attracted numerous high-profile events, boosting tourism and local businesses. The surrounding area has seen increased development, further cementing the KFC Yum! Center's role as a catalyst for economic growth in the region.

Events and Entertainment

The KFC Yum! Center is renowned for hosting a diverse range of events, catering to a wide audience. From NCAA basketball tournaments to concerts by world-famous artists, the arena's calendar is always packed with exciting performances. The versatility of the venue allows it to seamlessly transition from hosting a basketball game one night to a major concert the next.

One of the highlights of the KFC Yum! Center's event schedule is the annual Kentucky Derby Festival, which includes concerts, parades, and other festivities leading up to the famous horse race. The arena's prime location and top-notch facilities make it an ideal venue for such high-profile events.

Visitor Experience

Attending an event at the KFC Yum! Center is an experience like no other. The arena's modern design, combined with its scenic location along the Ohio River, creates a memorable backdrop for any event. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options within the arena, including concessions from KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, downtown Louisville offers a wealth of attractions. From the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to the Muhammad Ali Center, there is no shortage of things to see and do. The KFC Yum! Center's central location makes it easy for visitors to experience the best that Louisville has to offer.

In conclusion, the KFC Yum! Center is more than just an arena; it is a hub of activity, entertainment, and economic growth for Louisville. Its state-of-the-art facilities, prime location, and diverse event schedule make it a must-visit destination for sports fans and tourists alike. Whether you're catching a basketball game, attending a concert, or simply exploring downtown Louisville, the KFC Yum! Center offers an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit and energy of this vibrant city.