Introduction
Located in the vibrant city of Ontario, California, Toyota Arena has quickly established itself as one of the premier venues for sports, concerts, and entertainment in Southern California. Since its grand opening in 2008, the arena has hosted numerous high-profile events, including NHL and NBA games, top-tier concerts, family shows, and mixed martial arts competitions. With a seating capacity of over 11,000 and state-of-the-art facilities, Toyota Arena continues to attract both world-class performers and enthusiastic crowds year-round.
In this article, we’ll explore the history, features, events, and economic impact of Toyota Arena, and why it remains a crucial hub in Southern California’s entertainment landscape.
History of Toyota Arena
Originally known as Citizens Business Bank Arena, the facility was renamed Toyota Arena in 2019 under a naming rights agreement with the iconic Japanese car manufacturer Toyota. The naming deal not only increased brand visibility for Toyota but also marked a new chapter in the arena’s journey as a community and regional asset.
Owned by the City of Ontario and managed by ASM Global, Toyota Arena was built to meet the growing demand for a large-scale entertainment venue in the Inland Empire. The construction cost of the arena was estimated at around $150 million, making it one of the largest investments in the region’s cultural infrastructure.
Strategic Location
Toyota Arena is strategically located near Interstate 10 and the Ontario International Airport, making it easily accessible from various parts of Southern California. Its proximity to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties positions it as a central venue for millions of potential attendees.
With ample parking, nearby hotels, and shopping areas, the arena is part of a well-developed ecosystem that supports high attendance and tourism-related revenue.
Facilities and Design
The design of Toyota Arena combines both functionality and aesthetics. Key features include:
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 11,089 for concerts, 10,832 for basketball games, and 9,736 for hockey or ice events.
- Luxury Suites: 36 suites equipped with premium amenities.
- Club Seats: Around 500 exclusive club seats for a more luxurious viewing experience.
- Modern Technology: High-definition video boards, LED ribbon displays, and a top-tier sound system.
- Versatility: The arena can be configured for basketball, ice hockey, concerts, and even non-sporting events like expos and conventions.
Toyota Arena is also designed with accessibility in mind, including ADA-compliant seating, elevators, and parking facilities.
Events and Tenants
Sports Teams
Over the years, Toyota Arena has been home to several professional sports teams, including:
- Ontario Reign (AHL) – An affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings.
- Agua Caliente Clippers (NBA G League) – Affiliated with the LA Clippers.
- Empire Strykers (Major Arena Soccer League) – Previously known as the Ontario Fury.
These teams play regular seasons at the arena, attracting fans from all over the Inland Empire and beyond.
Concerts and Entertainment
Toyota Arena has hosted world-renowned artists such as:
- Elton John
- Ariana Grande
- Justin Bieber
- Carrie Underwood
- Luis Miguel
The arena’s acoustics and large capacity make it an ideal location for both large-scale and intimate concert experiences. In addition, the venue regularly features family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice, Cirque du Soleil, and Monster Jam.
Other Events
Apart from sports and concerts, Toyota Arena has been the venue for:
- Graduation Ceremonies
- Conventions and Trade Shows
- Religious Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- MMA and Boxing Matches
The flexibility of the arena’s layout allows it to cater to a wide range of audiences and event types.
Economic and Community Impact
Toyota Arena plays a vital role in the economic development of Ontario and the broader Inland Empire region. Some of the key contributions include:
- Job Creation: The arena supports hundreds of jobs, both full-time and part-time.
- Tourism Boost: Events attract visitors who spend money on local hotels, restaurants, and retail.
- Community Programs: Toyota Arena partners with local organizations to host charitable events, school programs, and community outreach activities.
The arena also enhances the city’s image as a progressive, event-friendly location, making Ontario an increasingly attractive place for business and investment.
Sustainability Efforts
As environmental awareness grows, Toyota Arena has implemented several green initiatives, such as:
- Energy-Efficient Lighting: LED lights throughout the facility.
- Recycling Programs: Comprehensive waste management and recycling.
- Water Conservation: Low-flow restroom fixtures and drought-tolerant landscaping.
These efforts align with broader sustainability goals in California and demonstrate the arena’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Toyota Arena and Toyota’s Brand Synergy
The naming rights partnership with Toyota is more than just a branding opportunity; it represents a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Toyota, a leading global automobile brand, has used its visibility at the arena to promote not only its vehicles but also local philanthropic initiatives.
Toyota’s presence reinforces the arena’s image as a high-quality, reliable, and community-focused venue. The sponsorship also allows for additional resources to be funneled into maintaining and upgrading the facility, ensuring it remains competitive with newer arenas in the region.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Toyota Arena is poised for continued growth. With a strong lineup of events, potential expansion of sports leagues, and ongoing community engagement, the arena’s future is bright.
Key developments to watch include:
- Technology Upgrades: Enhanced mobile ticketing, AI-powered crowd management, and improved Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Increased Bookings: With entertainment demand rebounding post-pandemic, more events are expected annually.
- Local Partnerships: Collaborations with schools, nonprofits, and businesses will strengthen its role as a community pillar.
Conclusion
Toyota Arena stands as a shining example of what a modern, multipurpose entertainment venue should be. From hosting thrilling sports events to unforgettable concert experiences, it offers something for everyone. Its strategic location, top-tier facilities, economic impact, and commitment to the community make it a cornerstone of Southern California’s cultural and entertainment scene.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, attending an event at Toyota Arena is sure to be a memorable experience. As it continues to evolve, the arena remains a symbol of entertainment excellence and community pride in Ontario, California.