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, giving fans an up-close experience that larger venues simply cannot replicate. It's an opportunity to watch high-level Division I basketball in a setting where you can hear every possession, feel every big moment, and truly connect with the game.
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 and take in the action from your ideal vantage point.
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. 🏀🌴
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.
Open in Google MapsMcArthur Center Video Tour
Take a tour of Eckerd College's McArthur Center, the host venue for the Showdown in St. Pete. Explore the court layout, team spaces, and premier collegiate basketball facilities.
Convenient Arrival & Parking
Tournament parking layouts have been configured to minimize walking distances while providing easy drop-off zones for teams and spectators.
General Spectators
Direct multi-level parking decks right next to the court complex.
Team Bus Zones
Designated oversized lanes and overnight bus parking structures.
ADA Accessible
Designated spots adjacent to main elevators and entries.
Rideshare drop-off
Fast lane indicators for Uber, Lyft, and taxi drop-offs.
Driving Directions to Eckerd
Easy routes to the campus from the north, south, east, and regional airports.
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 (old Exit No. 4) — 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 (old Exit No. 4) — 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. Petersburg/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. Car rental and transportation service to campus are available at the airport.
Nearby Attractions
Experience everything the Gulf Coast has to offer between showcase matches.
St. Pete Pier
Vibrant waterfront dining, playground parks, shopping, and scenic walks.
Downtown Waterfront
Boutique shops, local cafes, craft breweries, and cultural districts.
Gulf Coast Beaches
Award-winning sandy shores and sunset views just a 15-minute drive away.
World-Class Museums
Home to the famous Salvador Dalí Museum and Museum of Fine Arts.
Waterfront Parks
Acres of peaceful green lawns along the bay, perfect for walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Championship Venues Await
Get directions, check local hotel listings, and prepare for a premium tournament experience on Florida's beautiful waterfront coast.