Hampton Coliseum | Hampton

Location and Overview

The Hampton Coliseum is located at 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Virginia. Since its opening in 1970, it has been a cornerstone of cultural, entertainment, and sporting events in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. The Coliseum is a versatile, multi-purpose indoor arena with a seating capacity that ranges approximately from 9,800 up to nearly 14,000, depending on the event configuration.

Its reputation as the “Mighty Hampton Coliseum” stems from its unique architectural design and its longstanding role as a premier venue that draws national and international performers, sports events, and large community gatherings.

Historical Background

The Coliseum was conceived and built in response to the region’s need for a large-scale event venue to attract major concerts, sports, and conventions. Construction began in the late 1960s, culminating in its opening in 1970. Since then, it has been a hub for entertainment, sporting events, and cultural festivals for over five decades.

Throughout its history, the Hampton Coliseum has hosted a wide variety of events, ranging from legendary rock concerts and music festivals to NCAA basketball tournaments, professional wrestling events, monster truck shows, family circuses, and community celebrations. It played an especially significant role in hosting concerts by major artists such as The Grateful Dead, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Presley, and many others.

Architectural Design and Features

The Hampton Coliseum is widely recognized for its innovative dome-shaped roof and a distinctive space frame architectural design. This design was pioneering at the time, enabling the large, open interior space without obstructive support columns, thus maximizing visibility and acoustics for the audience.

The dome and structural engineering allow the arena to accommodate a flexible seating arrangement adaptable to concerts, sports, exhibitions, and large-scale conventions.

The interior is designed to optimize acoustics and sightlines, providing an immersive experience regardless of the seat location.

The facility includes modern amenities such as concession stands, restrooms, locker rooms, VIP areas, and media facilities.

The Coliseum's architectural uniqueness has contributed to its nickname as a “space-age” or “futuristic” venue, symbolizing progress and innovation when it was constructed.

Seating Capacity and Configurations

Concerts and Performances: Typically around 13,000 seats, configured with floor seating or standing room to accommodate large audiences.

Sports Events: Seating is usually arranged to accommodate between 9,800 to 12,000 spectators, depending on the sport and layout.

Exhibitions and Conventions: The arena floor space can be converted for trade shows, exhibitions, and community events, accommodating thousands of attendees.

Seating is divided into lower and upper levels with accessible seating areas, VIP suites, and group seating options. The venue is fully ADA-compliant to accommodate guests with disabilities.

Types of Events Hosted

Hampton Coliseum is known for its broad spectrum of event types, serving diverse audiences:

1. Music and Entertainment

Home to concerts by major national and international artists across genres-rock, jazz, country, hip-hop, electronic, and classical.

Notably famous for hosting The Grateful Dead, who performed many historic shows at the venue.

Hosts the Hampton Jazz Festival, a renowned annual event attracting top jazz, R&B, and soul musicians.

Other entertainment includes comedy shows, family productions, and popular touring acts.

2. Sports

Venue for collegiate basketball tournaments, including NCAA Division I games.

Professional wrestling events have been staged here extensively, contributing to its popularity among wrestling fans.

Monster truck rallies and motorsport exhibitions draw large crowds.

Other sporting events include indoor soccer, boxing, and gymnastics competitions.

3. Community and Cultural Events

The Coliseum is a central venue for regional festivals, expos, graduations, and large-scale community celebrations.

It also hosts trade shows, conventions, and corporate events, serving as a multifunctional facility for Hampton and the region.

Facilities and Amenities

The Hampton Coliseum offers modern amenities designed to enhance visitor experience:

Multiple concession stands offering food and beverages.

VIP suites and hospitality areas for special guests and corporate clients.

Ample restroom facilities and family-friendly spaces.

Spacious lobby and ticketing areas.

Professional lighting and sound systems to accommodate high-quality productions.

Backstage facilities for performers and athletes, including dressing rooms and warm-up areas.

Ample on-site parking with easy access to major highways and public transportation options.

Accessibility and Location

The Coliseum is conveniently located near Interstate 64 and other major roadways, making it highly accessible for residents of Hampton Roads and visitors from surrounding areas. Parking is plentiful, with dedicated lots and overflow areas for large events.

Nearby amenities include hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options, supporting visitors’ needs before and after events.

Impact on the Community

Hampton Coliseum has played an essential role in the cultural and economic vitality of Hampton and the wider Hampton Roads area by:

Drawing visitors regionally and nationally, boosting local businesses.

Providing a venue for diverse entertainment, sports, and cultural experiences.

Supporting community pride and identity as a landmark event space.

Serving as a platform for emerging and established artists.

Offering educational and outreach opportunities through event partnerships.

Recent and Upcoming Events

The Coliseum continues to be a vibrant venue hosting a mix of concerts, sporting events, family shows, and festivals. Recent highlights include performances by contemporary music acts, motorsport shows, and community festivals.

For example, the Hampton Jazz Festival remains an annual highlight, attracting music lovers with performances from legendary and contemporary jazz and soul artists.

Summary

The Hampton Coliseum is an iconic, architecturally distinct indoor arena that has served Hampton, Virginia, for over 50 years. Its innovative design, flexible capacity, and rich history of hosting diverse and high-profile events make it a cultural and entertainment centerpiece of the region. The Coliseum’s continuing role in attracting world-class events, supporting local economies, and providing community engagement opportunities cements its status as a treasured landmark in Hampton Roads.

This detailed account presents the Hampton Coliseum as more than just an arena, emphasizing its historical significance, architectural innovation, multifunctional capabilities, and deep community connections.