Hilton Coliseum, 14,057-seat multi-purpose arena in Ames, Iowa
Hilton Coliseum is a large indoor arena on the Iowa State University campus in Ames with seating for approximately 14,000 people. It features concrete and steel construction, theater-style seats, a large video screen installed in 2006, and good acoustics throughout.
The arena opened in 1971 as a home for Iowa State sports teams and replaced the smaller Armory building, which held only 6,000 people. Over decades it became a center for major university and community events.
The building is named after James H. Hilton, president of Iowa State University in the 1950s. Visitors experience strong school spirit here, expressed through loud cheering and collective support during games and events.
The arena is located at Lincoln Way and University Drive on campus with free parking nearby. Visitors can easily access it through entrances at the upper walkways and should check the events calendar online or contact the venue for current schedules.
The phenomenon called 'Hilton Magic' describes the team's remarkable ability to beat highly ranked opponents when the crowd is particularly loud. A memorable example was a victory against Missouri in 1989 that remains part of the venue's lore.
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