Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29
TD Arena 301 Meeting Street Charleston, SC 29401
Year Opened: 2008
Capacity: 5,100
The Cougars Court
Established in 1770 and formally chartered in 1785, the College of Charleston stands as a venerable pillar of American higher education. Holding the distinction of being the oldest college south of Virginia and the 13th oldest in the United States, it blends historic significance with contemporary vibrancy. Today, the college flourishes as a central part of downtown Charleston, nurturing a diverse student body of approximately 11,500.
The College of Charleston's basketball legacy stretches back to 1898, marking a long-standing commitment to the sport. As members of the Coastal Athletic Association, the Cougars have consistently demonstrated their prowess as a leading small college in Division I.
Food & Beverage 2
The TD Arena is serviced by only one concession stand for women's basketball games. The offerings are simple but fair.
Atmosphere 3
While the building's facade adheres to the Charleston Historic District's aesthetic, stepping inside reveals a strikingly modern facility. The expansive, two-story entry lobby functions as both a welcoming reception and a streamlined ticketing area, immediately setting a contemporary tone.
Ascending to the arena level, visitors encounter a two-tiered seating bowl with concourses that offer unobstructed views of the court. Every seat throughout the arena boasts comfortable seat-back support. A stroll around the concourse showcases comprehensive displays highlighting every sport played at the College of Charleston, while championship banners suspended from the rafters attest to the school's athletic achievements.
The court itself features the College of Charleston's distinctive maroon block "C" logo and the name of John Kresse, the legendary men's basketball coach whose 18-year tenure and record-breaking wins cemented his legacy. Corner-mounted video boards and scoreboards enhance the game-day experience.
Neighborhood 5
Nestled within the historically rich Charleston Historic District, the TD Arena and the College of Charleston offer a prime starting point for exploring one of the nation's most beloved tourist destinations. The arena's central location places visitors within easy walking distance of iconic attractions like the bustling Old City Market, the captivating South Carolina Aquarium, and the picturesque Battery.
The vibrant Marion Square, a hub of activity, regularly hosts lively festivals and transforms into a bustling weekend farmer's market during the growing season, providing a taste of local culture and produce.
Food enthusiasts will find a plethora of dining options to satisfy their palates, including the casual fare at Carolina Ale House, the elevated views at Star Rooftop, and the refined cuisine at Halls Chophouse, all offering a sampling of Charleston's renowned culinary scene.
Moreover, the area surrounding the TD Arena boasts a variety of lodging choices, allowing visitors to conveniently attend games while avoiding the expense and inconvenience of parking, further enhancing the overall experience.
Fans 3
There are just not many fans who attend the women's games here at TD Arena. The ones that do are loud and proud though.
Access 3
Navigating to the TD Arena is straightforward, as Meeting Street serves as a primary artery through downtown Charleston, readily accessible from both Highway 17 and I-26. From I-26, simply proceed east until the highway terminates in downtown Charleston, then take exit 221-B and follow the signs for Meeting Street, bearing right onto it. The TD Arena will be on your right, immediately past the Calhoun Street intersection. From Highway 17, cross the Ashley River Bridge into Charleston, bear right onto Lockwood Boulevard, keeping to the left lane, and turn left onto Calhoun Street at the first traffic light. The TD Arena stands at the corner of Calhoun and Meeting Street.
However, once you arrive at the arena, parking presents a challenge. Downtown Charleston parking is scarce, and while nearby garages exist, they often implement special event pricing during home games. Therefore, it is advisable to explore Charleston during the day, immersing yourself in its historical homes and landmarks.
Charleston's renowned culinary scene provides ample opportunities for dining at its fine downtown restaurants. Opt for a parking lot with a favorable early-bird rate, transforming your trip into a full-day experience. Charleston is a pedestrian-friendly city, and the TD Arena is conveniently accessible from any point within the downtown area.
Return on Investment 4
Notably, admission to women's basketball games is free. However, the most significant expense of attending a Cougars game is undoubtedly parking. Situated within the Historic District, the arena competes with tourist traffic for parking spaces, resulting in prices of $20 or more for parking near the arena on game nights.
Extras 3
The TD Arena's court proudly bears the name of John Kresse, the College of Charleston's most victorious men's coach. His remarkable 560 wins propelled the Cougars to four NCAA Tournament appearances and three NIT appearances, solidifying his legendary status.
In a moment of profound significance, the TD Arena served as the venue for the memorial service honoring the victims of the Emanuel AME church shootings. The church, a poignant landmark, is located just a short distance from the arena, underscoring the arena's role as a community gathering space.
The College of Charleston's campus presents a unique and captivating aesthetic, unlike any other. Its architecture primarily features repurposed historic houses, seamlessly integrated into academic buildings. The campus extends across multiple city blocks in downtown Charleston, united by a charming brick-paved plaza that replaces former streets. The school's commitment to historic preservation has garnered recognition at both local and national levels. Daily self-guided and student-led tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore this distinctive campus.
Final Thoughts
The College of Charleston's legacy of basketball achievement is reflected in the exceptional TD Arena, a top-tier facility for a Division I small school. Its first-class design and amenities undeniably create a powerful impression.
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