Simmons Bank Arena celebrates 25 years

On November 2, 2024By Littum

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – From rock & roll to pop music, Simmons Bank Arena has hosted plenty of talent over the past quarter century.

Over the years, many have come to the arena in North Little Rock to see some of the biggest names in entertainment. It first opened in October 1999, and before becoming Simmons Bank Arena, it was first known as Alltel Arena and later Verizon Arena.

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General manager Michael Marion said they have had more than 3,000 events, including The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift and many more.

“It’s a real thrill for us to be able to offer these kinds of artists so people don’t have to drive to Memphis, New Orleans or Dallas,” Marion said.

Marion said people love concerts and he has his favorites too.

“For me it was a big deal to have Paul McCartney in the building,” Marion said. “Harry Styles was a big one that took a while.”

Since opening, more than 10 million have attended, with a variety of events such as gymnastics, wrestling and even monster trucks.

“People always want to be in the same room as their favorite artist,” Marion said.

The arena’s economic impact since 1999 has generated just over 433 million, helping businesses on both sides of the river.

“The Bid Park, the Clinton Library across the river and the River Market are being redone, we were a catalyst to help with all of them, even helping with Argenta downtown,” Marion said.

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Marion said the memories are what make the arena so special. He hopes that more will keep coming for the next 25 years.

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