Step back into the rich history of Houston, Texas, by exploring the legacy of the Sam Houston Coliseum and Music Hall. Built at 801 Bagby Street in Downtown Houston with help from the Public Works Administration, this 9,200-capacity indoor arena complex opened in November 1937 after replacing the 1928 Sam Houston Hall. Architect Alfred C.
Finn designed the site, creating an iconic space adjacent to the Houston Music Hall that hosted landmark sports events, political gatherings, and music royalty for decades. While visiting the history of this site, you will discover where historic moments unfolded, from President John F. Kennedy's address on the last night of his life in 1963 to the milestone First National Women's Conference in 1977.
Sports fans can reflect on the venue hosting Houston Wrestling, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, early University of Houston basketball, and ice hockey teams like the Houston Skippers. Classic music history was made here by legendary performers including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Prince, and The Black Crowes, who played the final show before the arena was demolished in 1998.
What to see at Sam Houston Coliseum and Music Hall
- Designed by architect Alfred C. Finn and opened in November 1937
- Hosted JFK's speech on November 21, 1963, the night before his assassination
- Site of famous concerts by Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Prince
- Former home to Houston Wrestling, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and early pro hockey
- Site redeveloped into the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts after 1998 demolition
Visiting tips
Remember that the original arena was demolished in 1998, so look for the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts which opened on the site in 2003.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Flexible
How to get there & what’s nearby
Sam Houston Coliseum and Music Hall is easy to reach on Houston’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Houston Zoo and Six Flags AstroWorld. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Houston travel guide.
See the full Houston travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.