Enjoy a few exciting hours of thrilling sporting action or musical performances on a visit to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. This 12,000-seat multipurpose indoor arena is the home of the Portland WHL Winterhawks ice hockey team and presents a year-round schedule of events that includes pop and rock concerts, stand-up comedy shows, hockey games and festivals.
Purchase tickets online at the Coliseum’s official website or in person at the box office, which is open every weekday, at varying hours during weekends and while events are taking place.
The Coliseum opened in 1960 and is dedicated to the veterans of all wars. When you arrive, follow the signs to the Korean War Memorial, which features a granite wall inscribed with the names of the fallen.
If you are watching a concert, the performers will be following in the footsteps of such legendary figures as Ray Charles, the Rolling Stones, the Beach Boys, the Beatles and the Jackson 5. Among the other events hosted here are rodeos, circuses and ice shows. Consult the website for the full list of upcoming activities.
Patrons are permitted to bring only a small bottle of water into the venue so if you want other types of drinks or snacks, purchase them from the numerous concessions.
The Veterans Memorial Coliseum is located in Lloyd District, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) north of the downtown area and on the opposite side of the Willamette River. It is part of the Rose Quarter, a sports and entertainment district that also encompasses the 20,000-seat Moda Center and the 6,500-seat Theatre of the Clouds. Get here by bus, MAX light rail or streetcar. Alternatively, drive and pay to park in any of the four parking garages or two parking lots. There are spaces for more than 2,500 vehicles. Prices vary according to the event you are attending.
