This Iconic Stadium Has a Storied Past and a Bright Future
Over its 101 years, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum has hosted everything from the Olympic Games (with another on the way in 2028) and Super Bowls to iconic concerts and community events. As the home of USC Trojans football, which is now part of the Big Ten, the Coliseum is gearing up for even more action and excitement in the coming months. Whether you’re there for sports, music or culture, this legendary venue brings people together in the heart of the city.
A few years ago, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum underwent a massive renovation but still remains a renowned venue for hosting some of the biggest names and events of our time. Read on for six things you probably didn’t know about this historic stadium in Los Angeles.
1 | USC Traditions + Tailgating
USC students and alumni, fans and LA residents flock to the Coliseum each fall to cheer on their football team. On game days, the walk over to the Coliseum through the university’s beautiful campus puts a level of excitement in the air. The smell of victory dogs, the sounds of cheering fans and the colors of cardinal and gold create a truly special scene.
Once you’ve had all your tailgating fun and you’re inside the Coliseum, it’s necessary to make a stop at The Torch Bar or the Modelo Bar on South Concourse for an ice-cold, tall Modelo. Squeeze in your lime and head into one of the gift shops for a new USC hat (especially if your seats are in the sun!). Then, make a final stop for some classic stadium food. Once you’re in your seats, look out on the field for Traveler, USC’s noble white horse mascot, and get ready for an exciting few hours ahead.
2 | A Storied History: It Opened Over 100 Years Ago!
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum has a long, impressive history. Opening 101 years ago, it has hosted over 5,200 events with a total of over 122 million people in attendance. It’s been home to three different NFL teams (Rams, Raiders and Chargers) and has hosted two different Super Bowls (in 1967 and 1973). USC’s rival football team, UCLA, played here from 1933 to 1981. However, it’s been the home to the Trojans since 1923. And let’s not forget about the Tradition of the Torch! It’s lit during the fourth quarter of USC football games and symbolizes learning. It’s also lit during the Olympic games.
Local Insight: The Coliseum was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1984!
3 | Celebrity-Studded Past
Considering its LA location, the stadium has hosted its fair share of celebrities, politicians and public figures. The Coliseum has hosted six presidents—Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan—and international dignitaries such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Cesar Chavez, Pope John Paul II, the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela. When entering the Coliseum, you can feel the historical energy and importance this landmark holds in the city.
4 | It’s a Record-Breaking Stadium
Gearing up to host the 2028 Olympic Games, the Coliseum will hold the opening and closing Olympic ceremonies—sharing those duties with SoFi Stadium—along with track and field events. The LA Memorial Coliseum will actually become the only venue worldwide to host the track and field competitions for three different Olympics (1932, 1984 and 2028). The stadium has also hosted numerous historic figures and countless special events. It is the only facility in the world to host two Olympiads (X and XXIII), two Super Bowls (I and VII), one World Series (1959) and a Papal Mass—impressive! If you haven’t been and you’re a SoCal local, it’s time to attend a game or event.
5 | It Received a Whopping $315-Million Renovation in 2019
Talk about expensive, the two-year $315-million renovation of the Coliseum, designed by DLR Group, was completed in August 2019. The stadium has evolved to meet modern needs, including seismic upgrades. However, its core design has remained unchanged since 1923. This includes its intricate geometric layout, curved peristyle and concrete structure. Major changes were not made to the historic facade. However, changes and additions were made to the Founders Club, Guest Concourse, and Scholarship Tower.
6 | It’s Doubles as an Electric Concert Venue
If you haven’t experienced a sporting event here, chances are you’ve attended one of its legendary concerts. Over its 101-year history, this venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including The Rolling Stones, U2, Diplo, The Grateful Dead and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, creating unforgettable memories for music fans. The Coliseum’s history is matched by its vibrant present, with an exciting lineup of performances set for the rest of 2024. From the alternative vibes of the California Is For Lovers Festival to the lively rhythms of the Festival de la Quebradita 2024, the Coliseum continues to be a hub for entertainment.
Whether you’re drawn by the nostalgia of its past or the excitement of upcoming football games and events, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum remains a must-visit destination in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
3911 S Figueroa St
Los Angeles, CA 90037
@lacoliseum
Taylor is a graduate from the University of Southern California with a degree in journalism. She is our Los Angeles and Orange County editor. You can find her dining at a new restaurant, in the ocean or planning her next adventure. Say hello!
