Knapp Center
Arena or ballpark in Des Moines, Iowa
- Des Moines, IA
- Venue location
- Arena or ballpark
- Venue type
- 15 events
- Upcoming dates
- Visitor guide
- Arrival & venue details
About Knapp Center
Knapp Center is Drake University’s indoor arena for Bulldogs basketball and volleyball. Located on Forest Avenue, it includes Ron Pearson Court, surrounding spectator seating, loge boxes and corner club seats. Renovations before the 2022–23 season added accessible seating platforms and new connections to the bleachers.
2525 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311
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Plan Your Visit to Knapp Center
Which address should I use?
Drake University’s current campus directions list Knapp Center at 2525 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311. Use that location rather than the university’s general mailing address when planning your route.
What seating options are available?
Seats surround Ron Pearson Court. Some sections include loge boxes or corner club seats; access to premium spaces depends on the ticket. Consult the basketball seating map for your section and row.
Does parking differ for men’s and women’s basketball?
For men’s games, Lot 1 is paid parking and Lots 4 and 13 require passes. For women’s games, Lot 1 is free and Lot 4 requires a pass. These are basketball arrangements; use the current event instructions for other activities.
Where is accessible seating?
For basketball, accessible seating is at the top of sections 101–104 and 111–114. Call the Drake Athletics Ticket Office at 515-271-3647 about seating exchanges or access needs.
When do doors open, and what bags are allowed?
Basketball gates open one hour before tipoff. Clear bags may be up to 12 by 6 by 12 inches; clutches may be up to 5.5 by 8.5 inches. Medical and diaper-bag exceptions apply. Re-entry is prohibited.
Where are concessions and guest services?
Concessions serve the mezzanine near Gates 2 and 3 and the northeast areas. Outside food and drinks are prohibited. Guest Services is in the upper southeast corner by Gate 2.
Venue information checked 2026-10-31. Event layouts, policies and operating hours can change; consult the venue’s event instructions before traveling.
Sources & References
Venue photo credits
- Knapp Center interior photographed in 2022 — Drake SC, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Knapp Center basketball interior; historical configuration — The original uploader was K.a.zenz at English Wikipedia., Public domain.
