New Haven Coliseum, New Haven, Connecticut
The New Haven Coliseum was a large multipurpose arena in downtown New Haven that opened in 1972 and could hold more than 11,000 spectators. The modern structure featured a distinctive spiral-shaped parking ramp on its roof and served as a major event venue for sports and entertainment for four decades.
The Coliseum was completed in 1972 after four years of construction by architect Kevin Roche and replaced the older New Haven Arena building. After 30 years of operation, it closed in 2002 and was demolished by implosion in January 2007 to make way for new urban development.
The arena served as a gathering place where the community came together for entertainment and shared experiences across generations. It held special meaning for residents who attended concerts, sports games, and local events that became part of their personal histories.
The rooftop parking was accessed via a distinctive spiral ramp, offering a unique driving experience but creating maintenance challenges over time. Its downtown location next to the Knights of Columbus building made it easily accessible to visitors, though the structure required ongoing upkeep as it aged.
The building gained fame when Van Halen filmed the concert 'Live Without a Net' there in 1986. A 2010 documentary titled 'Last Days of the Coliseum' was later nominated for an Emmy Award and featured personal stories and behind-the-scenes footage of the venue's final chapter.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
