When the cornerstone to Veterans Memorial Auditorium was laid in 1954, it was one of the largest arenas and exhibit halls in the country. Iowa and Des Moines competed with the leading venues in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles.

 "Vets" has become a part of Iowa's history, playing host to everyone from leading entertainers to future Presidents to high school athletes seeking state titles.

Vets Auditorium continues to play a role in the future of our state, and is a key component of the Iowa Events Center. Recently, it was announced that this historic arena will receive a major renovation that will greatly increase the Iowa Events Center's ability to attract convention business in the years ahead.  Construction is slated to begin in October 2010, and you can find out more information from the Polk County Board of Supervisors by clicking HERE.

Directly joined to Hy-Vee Hall, and connected by skywalk and tunnel to Wells Fargo Arena, Vets Auditorium currently provides maximum flexibility for events. Its two levels offer nearly 100,000 square feet of floor space for exhibits and trades shows, along with more than 7,200 seats for smaller arena events.

Veterans Memorial Auditorium has been a part of Iowa's history for nearly a half century. Once the renovation is complete, it will continue to be a part of the future.

Veterans Memorial Auditorium Renovation Information

Veterans Auditorium Seating Charts

Request for Proposal

A fun look at events of the past