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The Ultimate Guide To BSU Special Events Center Location: Two Venues, One Confusing Name

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The question of the "BSU Special Events Center location" often leads to confusion because Boise State University (BSU) actually operates two distinct, high-profile venues that fit the description: the massive, multi-purpose arena and the intimate, dedicated theater. As of late December 2025, the name "BSU Special Events Center" can refer to either the colossal ExtraMile Arena, which hosts major concerts and sports, or the smaller, official Special Event Center (SPEC), a proscenium theatre located within the Student Union Building. This guide provides the definitive, up-to-date location and purpose for both.

To navigate the world of Boise State events, it is crucial to know which venue you need. The scale of your event—whether it is a sold-out concert or a specialized lecture—will determine which of the two primary BSU Special Event Centers you should be looking for. Always check your ticket or event listing for the exact venue name to ensure you arrive at the correct destination on the sprawling Boise State campus in Boise, Idaho.

The Massive Main Venue: ExtraMile Arena (Formerly BSU Pavilion)

For most major public events, including NCAA sports, large-scale concerts, and university-wide ceremonies, the venue you are looking for is the ExtraMile Arena. This is the largest and most well-known special events center on the BSU campus, and its history is marked by several name changes that contribute to the current confusion.

ExtraMile Arena Profile and Location Details

  • Current Official Name: ExtraMile Arena
  • Physical Address: 1401 Bronco Lane, Boise, Idaho 83706
  • Campus Location: Situated on the campus of Boise State University, easily accessible from Interstate 84 and near the Boise River.
  • Primary Function: Multi-purpose indoor arena for sports, concerts, and major community events.
  • Capacity: Officially seats 13,390 for concerts and other large events. The capacity for Boise State Broncos basketball games is 12,380.
  • Opened: May 16, 1982

The ExtraMile Arena is the unquestionable hub for Boise entertainment and a key entity in the Mountain West Conference. It is the official home court for the Boise State Broncos men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the wrestling and gymnastics programs.

A History of Name Changes

Understanding the arena's past names is essential for anyone searching for old event locations or historical context. The venue has gone through three major names since its opening in the early 1980s:

  1. BSU Pavilion (1982–2004): When it first opened its doors in 1982, the venue was known simply as the BSU Pavilion. The very first event held here was a graduation ceremony.
  2. Taco Bell Arena (2004–2019): For 15 years, the venue was widely recognized as the Taco Bell Arena after a major naming rights deal.
  3. ExtraMile Arena (2019–Present): In 2019, the venue underwent its most recent name change to ExtraMile Arena, securing its current identity.

When someone is looking for the "BSU Special Events Center" for a large-scale event like a commencement ceremony, a major touring artist, or an NCAA basketball game, the ExtraMile Arena is the correct, modern location.

The Intimate Performance Space: Special Event Center (SPEC)

The second venue that officially bears the name "Special Event Center" is a much smaller, dedicated performance hall. This facility is often referred to by its acronym, SPEC, and is primarily used for academic, arts, and smaller community functions. This is the venue that matches the exact name in the search query.

SPEC Location and Purpose

  • Official Name: Special Event Center (SPEC)
  • Physical Address: 1800 W University Dr, Boise, ID 83706 (located within or adjacent to the Student Union Building)
  • Campus Location: It is an integral part of the Student Union Building (SUB) complex, making it central to student life and university functions.
  • Capacity: An intimate proscenium theatre with a seating capacity of 435 spectators.
  • Primary Function: A high-tech, intimate theatre space for dance, theatrical performances, lectures, film screenings, and university meetings.

The SPEC provides a versatile and technologically advanced setting for a wide spectrum of programs and activities. Its tiered seating and professional staging capabilities make it a premier venue for arts and cultural events on campus, such as the Boise International Short Film Festival or specialized academic lectures.

Navigating the BSU Campus: Key Entities for Visitors

Successfully finding the BSU Special Events Center location—whether it is the ExtraMile Arena or the SPEC—requires familiarity with the surrounding campus entities. The Boise State campus is strategically located in the heart of Boise, Idaho, offering easy access to downtown attractions and the beautiful Boise River Greenbelt.

ExtraMile Arena Access:

The arena is a standalone structure on Bronco Lane. Visitors for major events should be aware of specific parking regulations for the arena, which differ from general campus parking. The proximity to the Stueckle Sky Center and Albertsons Stadium means that traffic can be heavy during major event days, especially for Boise State Broncos football or basketball games.

Special Event Center (SPEC) Access:

Because the SPEC is located within the Student Union complex, visitors should look for the main Student Union Building on University Drive. The SUB is a central point of the university, also housing the Forum, the Hatch Ballroom, and various student services. Parking for the SPEC is typically available in the nearby campus parking garages or lots, which may require a paid permit depending on the day and time.

Essential BSU Entities and Landmarks:

  • Bronco Lane: The main street associated with the ExtraMile Arena address.
  • Student Union Building (SUB): The complex housing the smaller Special Event Center (SPEC).
  • Albertsons Stadium: Home of the famous blue turf, located near the ExtraMile Arena.
  • Boise River Greenbelt: A popular recreational path that runs along the north side of the campus, offering a scenic route to the area.
  • Boise State Broncos: The athletic teams that call ExtraMile Arena their home.

In summary, the next time you hear "BSU Special Events Center," remember you are dealing with two distinct, high-quality venues. For a crowd of thousands, head to the ExtraMile Arena (1401 Bronco Lane). For an intimate performance or lecture, seek out the Special Event Center (SPEC) in the Student Union Building (near 1800 W University Dr). Knowing the difference ensures you are always in the right place at the right time for your next Boise State event.

The Ultimate Guide to BSU Special Events Center Location: Two Venues, One Confusing Name
bsu special events center location
bsu special events center location

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