Schottenstein Center

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the old arena in Ohio State?

The old arena for Ohio State University was St. John Arena, located on the university's campus in Columbus, Ohio. Opened in 1956, St. John Arena served as the primary home for Ohio State Buckeyes men's and women's basketball, as well as other university sporting events and concerts, for over four decades. Its historic atmosphere and classic design made it a beloved venue for generations of Buckeye fans. In 1998, the Schottenstein Center (Value City Arena) replaced St. John Arena as the primary arena for basketball and major events, though St. John Arena still hosts select athletic and university functions. The transition marked a significant upgrade in capacity and amenities, modernizing the Buckeyes' home court experience.

Can I bring a purse into the Schottenstein Center?

Yes, you can bring a purse into the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, OH, but there are specific bag policies to follow for security reasons. The venue enforces a clear bag policy, allowing guests to bring clear bags that do not exceed 14” x 14” x 6” in size. Small clutch purses, approximately the size of a hand (no larger than 5” x 8” x 1”), are also permitted. All bags are subject to inspection at the entrance, and backpacks or large bags are not allowed. To ensure a smooth entry, it's best to review the latest Schottenstein Center bag policy on their official website before attending your event.

Is the Schottenstein Center the same as Value City Arena?

Yes, the Schottenstein Center and Value City Arena refer to the same venue in Columbus, Ohio. Officially named the Jerome Schottenstein Center, the facility is commonly called Value City Arena due to its naming rights partnership with Value City Furniture, a retail chain founded by the Schottenstein family. Opened in 1998, the arena hosts Ohio State University basketball and hockey games, concerts, and major entertainment events. Locals often use both names interchangeably, but they represent the same multi-purpose arena located on the Ohio State University campus. When purchasing tickets or searching for events, listings may show either name.

Is the Schottenstein Center cashless?

Yes, the Schottenstein Center operates as a cashless venue for most events. This means all purchases, including tickets, concessions, and merchandise, are made using credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. The transition to a cashless system enhances guest convenience, reduces wait times, and improves overall security within the arena. If you do not have a card or mobile payment method, the Schottenstein Center typically provides reverse ATMs where you can convert cash into a prepaid card for use during your visit. Always check the official venue website for the latest cashless payment policies before attending an event.

Who are the comedians coming to Columbus 2025?

Columbus, OH, is a top destination for major comedy tours, and several comedians are scheduled to perform at the Schottenstein Center and other local venues in 2025. While the full lineup is continually updated, popular comedians such as Kevin Hart, Nate Bargatze, and Jo Koy are anticipated to bring their tours to Columbus. The Schottenstein Center frequently hosts high-profile comedy acts, so check Gigfomo and the arena's official schedule for ticket announcements and confirmed dates. For the latest information on comedians coming to Columbus in 2025, including tour updates and presale opportunities, visit Gigfomo's Columbus events page regularly.