Hobart Arena | Troy

Hobart Arena, located in Troy, Ohio, is a historically significant and architecturally versatile multipurpose venue. Opened in 1950, the arena has served as a central hub for entertainment, sports, and civic life in Miami County for over seven decades. Its enduring presence reflects both the vision of its founders and the evolving recreational and cultural needs of the Troy community.

Historical Development

The concept for Hobart Arena originated in 1946, when brothers William H. and Edward A. Hobart proposed a large-scale recreational project for Troy. Their plan included three major elements: a winter sports arena, a football stadium, and a golf course. To fund the arena, the Hobart family pledged support through the Charles C. Hobart Foundation, contingent on local approval for a bond to cover the cost of the other two facilities.

In 1947, the people of Troy voted to pass a $450,000 bond. The golf course opened that April, and the football stadium was completed by September. Construction of Hobart Arena began shortly thereafter and was completed in time for its grand opening on September 6, 1950, marked by ten sold-out performances of “Holiday on Ice.”

Architecture and Facility Layout

Hobart Arena was designed as a highly adaptable space with both functionality and spectator comfort in mind. Although its construction was during the post-World War II era, it incorporated features that were ahead of its time.

Specifications:

Main Floor Space: 85 feet by 185 feet (totaling 15,785 sq. ft.), suitable for sporting events, exhibitions, and trade shows.

Seating Capacity: 3,782 fixed seats, with additional capacity for up to 1,500 on the arena floor depending on event type.

Stage: A SICO stage can be deployed, extending to 40 x 60 feet and standing 4 feet high.

Lighting: 92 LED lights over the arena floor and 20 LEDs over the seating areas offer excellent illumination.

Sound System: Modernized for live concerts and theatrical performances.

Amenities:

Five full-service concession stands.

Four dressing rooms and two referee rooms.

A dedicated production office for performers and technical staff.

ADA-compliant seating areas and accessible entrances.

Parking for approximately 800 vehicles.

Renovation and Modernization

Over the years, Hobart Arena has undergone two major renovation efforts to keep pace with the needs of modern audiences.

1997 Renovation:

General facility maintenance and operational upgrades.

Improvements to seating and concessions.

2016–2017 Renovation ($9.6 Million Investment):

This comprehensive upgrade revitalized the arena’s infrastructure and visitor experience:

Expanded Lobbies and Concourse Areas: Allowed for better crowd movement and larger gathering spaces.

New Bravo Room: A multi-use banquet and meeting space suitable for conferences, receptions, and private events.

Upgraded Concessions and Restrooms: Improved customer service and comfort during high-capacity events.

Back-of-House Enhancements: Included upgraded dressing rooms, equipment storage, and stage-loading capabilities.

Technological Upgrades: High-definition video screens, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and improved HVAC.

Cultural and Community Significance

Since its opening, Hobart Arena has hosted an impressive range of events, making it one of the cultural cornerstones of western Ohio.

Major Performances and Guests:

Elvis Presley performed two shows on November 24, 1956, drawing enormous crowds.

Other famous acts over the decades include:

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Gene Autry

Nat King Cole

Liberace

Conway Twitty

The Beach Boys

The venue continues to attract contemporary performers across genres.

Sports Legacy:

Troy Bruins (1951–1959): Part of the International Hockey League (IHL), bringing professional hockey to the region.

Troy Sabres and Miami Valley Sabres: Semi-professional teams that kept the hockey tradition alive.

Figure Skating and Youth Hockey: Home to local skating clubs and leagues that have nurtured young athletes for decades.

Event Versatility and Community Use

Hobart Arena remains in active use for a wide spectrum of functions:

Entertainment and Sports:

Concerts, comedy shows, and traveling entertainment acts.

College and high school sporting events.

Ice shows, including themed performances and local figure skating exhibitions.

Civic Events:

Graduation ceremonies, job fairs, and public expos.

Religious gatherings and interdenominational services.

Fundraisers and charity galas.

Public Ice Skating and Instruction:

Seasonal public skating sessions.

Learn-to-skate programs for children and adults.

Figure skating and hockey training clinics.

Private Rentals:

The Bravo Room and arena floor are available for rent for weddings, trade shows, corporate events, and conventions.

Ongoing Role in Troy

Today, Hobart Arena stands as more than just a venue—it is a symbol of Troy’s commitment to community, culture, and recreation. Its strategic renovations and adaptive programming ensure that it meets the demands of a 21st-century audience while honoring its historic legacy. Whether serving as a host for chart-topping music acts or a gathering place for local residents, Hobart Arena remains an essential and cherished part of Troy’s identity.