American Airlines Center opened in 2001 in Victory Park and is owned by the City of Dallas. The arena is home to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and NHL’s Dallas Stars. The arena was built as part of the Victory Park redevelopment north of downtown. With a seating capacity of over 20,000, it serves as a venue for professional basketball, hockey, and concerts. The Mavericks and Stars remain the primary tenants today, and the venue continues to anchor Victory Park’s growth.
March 2020 Photo Set
In March 2020, the NBA suspended its season on March 11 and the NHL followed on March 12 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Events at American Airlines Center were postponed indefinitely. These photos were taken shortly after, showing the arena during that unusual quiet period.
March 2020 — Victory Plaza arch framing the main entrance. The usually busy pedestrian approach was empty in the days after the NBA and NHL suspensions.
March 2020 — South façade of the arena with brick and limestone detail. Game-day banners were still hanging despite events being put on hold.
March 2020 — Mural and gate area. Bright artwork contrasted with the silence that had fallen over the plaza.
March 2020 — Approach from the Victory Station side. DART service continued, but arena events were suspended.
Location & Access
The American Airlines Center sits in Victory Park, just northwest of downtown Dallas. It is directly served by DART’s Victory Station, providing convenient transit access. The arena is also within walking distance of Uptown Dallas and nearby attractions such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.