Opened in 1997 as Cox Arena, the arena was built on the site of the historic Aztec Bowl stadium, which hosted San Diego State Aztecs football games from the time of its construction in 1936 until 1967. The arena was built directly into a canyon hillside, enclosing one end of the Aztec Bowl. Two sections of the stadium's original concrete bleachers and cobblestone walls remain visible.
Until July 1, 2009, the arena's naming rights were owned by Cox Communications. On March 17, 2009, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians announced the signing of a 10-year naming rights agreement; the arena was renamed to Viejas Arena.
On April 4, 2024, San Diego State University announced a renovation study for Viejas Arena, focused on improving the main concourse, including food and beverage purveyors, hospitality experiences, and other services outside the arena.
Viejas Arena is used as a large concert venue where major musical acts perform.[8] The arena has hosted concerts for artists such as Cher, Eric Clapton, Britney Spears, John Mayer, The Chainsmokers, Black Eyed Peas, and Aerosmith. In the spring of 2001, Billy Joel and Elton John opened their Face to Face world tour with a sold-out show at the arena.