What the place is
In Exposition Park, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and BMO Stadium represent different eras of Los Angeles sports and civic life. The Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena once stood beside the Coliseum, but it was demolished in 2016. BMO Stadium, its successor on the former arena site, opened in April 2018.
History
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Built between 1921 and 1923 to honor World War I veterans, the Coliseum was designed by architects John and Donald Parkinson. Its Egyptian, Spanish, and Mediterranean Revival influences frame an elliptical concrete bowl that can seat up to 100,000 spectators. The east-end peristyle is known as the “Court of Honor” and commemorates significant events and people in the stadium’s history (LA Conservancy).
The Coliseum was part of a wider plan to develop Exposition Park as a civic and cultural center. The plan followed the establishment of the Los Angeles Natural History Museum in 1913 and reflected Los Angeles’ emergence as a major American metropolis (LA Conservancy).
The stadium hosted the 1932 Summer Olympics, prompting expansion and innovations that included the first Olympic Village and medal ceremonies featuring anthems and flags. It also served as the main venue for the 1984 Olympics, becoming the first stadium to host the Summer Games twice (LA Conservancy).
The Coliseum was the Dodgers’ first Los Angeles home, hosted the inaugural Super Bowl in 1967, and remains home to the USC Trojans football team. It has also hosted the Rams, Raiders, and Chargers, as well as Billy Graham’s 134,254-strong evangelistic campaign (LA Conservancy; HotelsCombined).
Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena
The Sports Arena opened on July 4, 1959, and was dedicated by Vice President Richard Nixon as a living tribute to U.S. Armed Forces veterans. Its location near the Coliseum reinforced its civic symbolism (lacoliseum.com).
For nearly sixty years, the arena hosted sports, concerts, graduations, and civic events. Its affordability and accessibility helped make it a gathering place for South Los Angeles (ussporthistory.com). It stood at the crossroads of social change, from the civil rights era through urban renewal, before being replaced by BMO Stadium in 2018; its legacy continues through developments on the site (ussporthistory.com; basketball.fandom.com).
Milestones included the 1960 Democratic National Convention, where John F. Kennedy was nominated; two NCAA Final Fours; and the boxing events of the 1984 Olympics (basketball.fandom.com; ussporthistory.com).
The arena was home to the Lakers, Clippers, USC, and UCLA basketball teams, and also hosted boxing, hockey, wrestling, and other events (basketball.fandom.com). Bruce Springsteen nicknamed it “The Dump That Jumps.” The Rolling Stones, U2, Madonna, and Prince performed there, and the arena appeared in film and television, reflecting the city’s diverse culture (concertarchives.org).
BMO Stadium
BMO Stadium opened in April 2018 as a soccer-specific venue on the former Sports Arena site. The $250 million project significantly boosted local employment and city tax revenue (Wikipedia). It was the first open-air facility built in Los Angeles since Dodger Stadium.
The stadium is home to LAFC (MLS) and Angel City FC (NWSL). It has hosted the CONCACAF Champions League Final and concerts by BLACKPINK, Queen + Adam Lambert, and other performers. Its programming has made it a top-five global stadium for touring (Sports Venue Business).
What to see
At the Coliseum, the peristyle, Court of Honor, and stadium architecture are among the features included in guided tours.
BMO Stadium has an open-air design, 22,000 seats (24,000 for concerts), premium suites, rooftop lounges, and clubs on every level (Gensler). Its architecture and event atmosphere also offer photo opportunities.
Although the Sports Arena no longer stands, its history can be explored through local museums and archives. There are no direct tours or tickets for the former arena.
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
Coliseum visiting hours vary with its event schedule. Tickets for tours and events are best purchased in advance through the official website or authorized partners; high-demand events may sell out quickly.
BMO Stadium is primarily open during scheduled matches and concerts. Interior access is limited on non-event days, while Exposition Park is open year-round. BMO Stadium tickets are available through Ticketmaster and the BMO Stadium website.
The former Sports Arena has no direct tours or tickets. Visitors can explore Exposition Park, BMO Stadium, and the Coliseum to learn about the area’s history.
For up-to-date information on events, tickets, and tours, consult the official venue websites or download the Audiala app.
Tours
Coliseum guided tours include the peristyle, Court of Honor, and behind-the-scenes areas, with information about Olympic history and the stadium’s architecture. Group tours and educational programs are also available.
BMO Stadium does not currently offer regular public tours. Special behind-the-scenes events may be announced on the official website.
Accessibility and transportation
The Coliseum offers wheelchair-friendly entrances, restrooms, seating, and parking. BMO Stadium has ramps, designated seating, and accessible restrooms. Major attractions in Exposition Park offer accessible facilities, seating, and services.
The Metro Expo Line serves the area at Expo Park/USC Station.
Tips
Check event times before visiting the Coliseum, arrive early for security screening, and wear comfortable shoes. Advance ticket purchases are recommended for Coliseum tours and events.
BMO Stadium event parking averages $50, and pre-purchasing is advised (Reddit). The Metro Expo Line is an alternative for reaching the area.
Nearby places
Exposition Park and the surrounding area include:
- California Science Center
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- The Rose Garden
- California African American Museum
- Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (opening soon)
- University of Southern California
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- BMO Stadium
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I visit the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena today?
A: The arena was demolished in 2016. Visitors can explore Exposition Park, BMO Stadium, and the Coliseum.
Q: Are there tours related to the Sports Arena’s history?
A: There are no dedicated Sports Arena tours, but Coliseum and Exposition Park tours offer historical context.
Q: Where can I see memorabilia or learn more about the arena?
A: Local museums and online archives, including ussporthistory.com, provide information about the arena.
Q: What are BMO Stadium’s visiting hours?
A: The stadium is open during scheduled events, and Exposition Park is accessible daily.
Q: How do I buy tickets for BMO Stadium or the Coliseum?
A: Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, BMO Stadium, and the Coliseum websites.
Q: Is public transportation available?
A: Yes. The Metro Expo Line serves Exposition Park and its venues at Expo Park/USC Station.
Q: Are these venues accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Major attractions in Exposition Park offer accessible facilities, seating, and services.
