Tournament Venue
McArthur Center at Eckerd College
Nestled on the picturesque waterfront campus of Eckerd College, the McArthur Center offers one of the most unique and intimate settings in all of college basketball. With a capacity of 2,535, every seat in the arena feels close to the action.
The Fan Experience
A Classic Arena Atmosphere
The venue features a mix of chairback seating and traditional bleacher seating, providing a classic college basketball atmosphere. All tickets for the Showdown in St. Pete are general admission, so the earlier you arrive, the better your opportunity to secure your preferred seat.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the McArthur Center also features premium VIP hospitality areas located at the top of the sections directly behind the team benches. These spaces provide exceptional sightlines and can accommodate food and beverage service, making them perfect for alumni gatherings, corporate outings, client entertainment, and special celebrations. Whether you're a lifelong basketball fan, an alumnus reconnecting with friends, or a company looking to entertain clients in a memorable setting, the McArthur Center delivers an atmosphere where every seat is a great seat and every game feels personal. At the Showdown in St. Pete, you'll experience college basketball the way it was meant to be experienced—up close, intimate, and unforgettable.
Inside the McArthur Center
Eckerd College's McArthur Center — host venue for the Showdown in St. Pete.
Take a Look Inside
McArthur Center Video Tour
Tournament Venue Location
The primary address for the McArthur Physical Education Center and its adjacent parking lots is the main campus address at 4200 54th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711.
4200 54th Ave S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
Convenient Arrival & Parking
Eckerd College Campus Map
Driving Directions to Eckerd
From East & North
Take I-4 West or I-75 and I-275 South to Tampa and continue on I-275 across Tampa Bay via the Howard Frankland Bridge to St. Petersburg. Continue south on I-275 past the downtown St. Petersburg exits all the way to Eckerd College at Exit No. 17 — Pinellas Bayway/St. Petersburg Beach — bearing right as the exit splits. The College entrance is 1/4 mile on the left before the tollbooth.
From the South
Take I-75 North to I-275 and the Sunshine Skyway. After you cross the bridge and Tampa Bay, take Exit No. 17 — Pinellas Bayway/St. Petersburg Beach — which is a left exit. Turn left at the traffic light onto 54th Avenue South. Proceed 1/2 mile and turn left into the college's entrance.
From Tampa International Airport (TPA)
As you leave the Airport, follow the signs to I-275 South and St. Petersburg. Follow directions above from the North. Car rental and transportation service to campus are available at the airport.
From St. Pete/Clearwater Airport (PIE)
Exit the airport and turn left onto Roosevelt Boulevard (686) and continue onto the overpass which will immediately merge with Ulmerton Road (688). Continue on Roosevelt to the I-275 interchange then bear right onto I-275 South to St. Petersburg. Then follow directions above from the North.
Food & Beverage
Before, during, and after the Showdown in St. Pete we gotta Eat!
Tiki Docks
Before & After each game day join in on the fun with drink & food specials!
Gateway Subs
Wednesday enjoy lunchtime hoops with St. Pete's best lunchtime option. Gateway Subs will have their famous subs available for purchase!
VIP Ticket's Food & Drink
Purchasers of a VIP ticket will enjoy a catered & hosted experience with buffet style food. Alcohol is included in this experience.
Ford's Garage Friday Happy Hour
Friday November 13th there are no games but there is action! Join us during Happy Hour at Ford's Garage at 4:00 PM where fan's from all teams will gather to get ready for Saturday's marquee matchup! Located in Downtown St. Pete and steps away from all the fun you can expect on a Friday out on the town.
Kenny's Que
Purchase official tournament gear on site at the event. Hats & T-Shirts will be available from one of the nation's hottest brands!
Location Qs
Championship Venues Await
Get directions, check local hotel listings, and prepare for a premium tournament experience on Florida's beautiful waterfront coast.