Desert Diamond Arena Reimagines Itself as Arizona’s Newest ‘Music Mecca’—$42M+ Transformation Underway

Flaunt Weeekly Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona has revealed its plans for a $42 million transformation from a sports arena into a new ‘music mecca’ for the state.

The remodel is being spearheaded by ASM Global in collaboration with the UK’s Forward Associates, with design firm HOK on board. The project will position Desert Diamond Arena as a premier destination for concerts, events, and immersive experiences. The remodel is currently underway and is slated for completion by Spring 2025.

The re-imagination of the arena spans nearly 25 redesigned spaces in the venue and is part of a broader effort to elevate the Desert Diamond Arena and its surrounding 250-acre complex which includes State Farm Stadium, 13 hotels, and the Westgate Entertainment District—which includes bars, restaurants, experiential entertainment and the Desert Diamond Casino.

“Desert Diamond Arena’s $42 million renovation is a transformative investment, solidifying Glendale as a premier entertainment destination in the Southwest,” says Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps. “With state-of-the-art amenities, re-imagined suites and expanded programming on par with the newest venues nationwide, we’re delivering unforgettable experiences that drive economic growth, attract top-tier events and fuel local businesses.”

“Glendale’s entertainment district is home to nearly 4,000 hotel rooms, convenient freeway access, and more than 26,000 parking spaces. It is unmatched in its scale, accessibility and impact, positioning our community as a leader in live entertainment for years to come.”

Key upgrades to Desert Diamond Arena include enhanced facilities and guest accommodations, setting a new standard for concert venues in the Southwest. These changes aim to attract a diverse array of visitors from music fans and sports enthusiasts to travels seeking world-class entertainment options. Construction is underway on immersive fan experiences ranging from the street-inspired Floor Bar to the vibrant on-course Marketplace culinary creations to private booths in Studio 623.

ASM Global intends to replicate this successful model across other U.S. locations, setting Desert Diamond Arena as a prototype for innovative, high-impact venue experiences.

“This transformation celebrates Desert Diamond Arena’s two decades at the heart of Glendale’s thriving entertainment landscape while creating a destination that can draw audiences from across the region and beyond,” adds Doug Thornton, ASM Global Executive Vice President, Arenas, Stadiums, and Theaters. “The new and improved arena will deliver a first-class experience for every guest, from general admission attendees to premium club members.”

The Arena has a seating capacity of 19,000 for concert events, with 53 luxury suites and 12 suite lounge loges. Upon completion of this remodel, the arena will also feature 22 Encore Club Theatre Boxes, 14 Club Studio 623 booths, and 341 Club Seats in The View.