Michigan State Fair Riding Coliseum, Dairy Cattle Building, and Agricultural Building

The Michigan State Fair Riding Coliseum, Dairy Cattle Building, and Agricultural Building form a classical ensemble with white stucco walls and red brick bases. Large windows, columned entrances, and symmetrical volumes define their architectural character.

Architect Lynn W. Fry designed this complex between 1922 and 1926 as Detroit modernized its fairground infrastructure. The structures marked the city's shift toward permanent exhibition venues for agricultural events.

These buildings served as central venues for agricultural education, livestock exhibitions, and equestrian events, connecting urban residents with farming practices.

The former Dairy Cattle Building now functions as the Jason Hargrove Transit Center with retail and ticketing services. Visitors should note that the complex operates as part of a working transit hub with variable access hours.

The Coliseum houses one of Detroit's largest wooden trusses, spanning the interior without visible supports. The Agricultural Building features projecting arcades that shelter its entrances, a distinctive architectural detail from that era.

Location: Detroit

Architectural style: classical architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.44333,-83.11750

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41