To spot the Bank OZK Arena, look for a massive, modern building with tall glass windows and a tan brick corner just to your left-the sign with “arena” in bold white letters is right out front above the entrance.
Alright, get ready to step right up-because you’re standing before a giant of entertainment in Hot Springs! The Bank OZK Arena stretches out before you, its huge glass face gleaming under the Arkansas sky, like it’s waiting for the next big show to roar inside its walls. Imagine crowds of thousands buzzing with excitement, spilling through those doors, their laughter echoing as they grab tickets and head to their seats. This isn't just any old building-opened in 2003 with a swinging concert by Tony Bennett himself, it’s been a hotspot ever since.
But this place has a bit of an identity crisis-it used to be called Summit Arena, courtesy of Summit Bank’s humble sponsorship, before it switched over to Bank OZK. Think of it as an arena with a great wardrobe change! Inside, you’d find 6,300 seats ready for roaring basketball fans, concert lovers swaying to the music, and maybe even a beauty queen, as the Miss Arkansas Pageant struts its stuff across the stage.
It’s also seen some wild contests, hosting the Arkansas Activities Association’s High School Basketball Championships every year since 2012-can you hear the sneakers squeaking and the crowds cheering? Let’s not forget about the Great American Conference’s Women’s Volleyball Championship or the legendary bass fishing tournaments-yes, fishing champions have been crowned right here.
But the arena isn’t alone-it’s part of the Hot Springs Convention Center, a massive complex where deals are made, art is displayed, and banquets fill the air with laughter and clinking glasses. So, as you stand here, picture a place that doesn’t just echo with music or sports, but with the dreams and celebrations of an entire community. Now, who’s ready for the next show?
