The Staples Center, now known as the Crypto.com Arena, is a iconic multi-purpose arena located in downtown Los Angeles, California. It has been the home of several prominent sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Los Angeles Kings. However, many people often wonder if the Staples Center is the old Forum, given the rich history of both venues in the Los Angeles sports scene. In this article, we will delve into the history of both the Staples Center and the Forum, exploring their origins, notable events, and the evolution of the Los Angeles sports landscape.
Introduction to the Staples Center
The Staples Center, which opened its doors on October 17, 1999, was a state-of-the-art arena designed to replace the Great Western Forum as the primary indoor arena in Los Angeles. The venue was built with a price tag of $375 million and was financed by a partnership between Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) and the Los Angeles Lakers. The arena was designed by the architectural firm NBBJ and features a unique design with a retractable roof and a large video scoreboard. The Staples Center has a seating capacity of over 18,000 for basketball games and over 17,000 for hockey games, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in the United States.
History of the Great Western Forum
The Great Western Forum, commonly referred to as the Forum, was a iconic indoor arena located in Inglewood, California. The Forum was built in 1967 and was the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Kings for over 30 years. The arena was designed by the architectural firm Charles Luckman Associates and featured a unique design with a circular shape and a large dome. The Forum had a seating capacity of over 17,000 for basketball games and over 16,000 for hockey games, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in the United States at the time. The Forum hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, boxing matches, and basketball games, and was known for its intimate and energetic atmosphere.
Notable Events at the Forum
The Forum hosted many notable events during its time as the primary indoor arena in Los Angeles. Some of the most notable events include the 1972 and 1981 NBA All-Star Games, the 1984 and 1988 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament, and the 1991 and 1997 Grammy Awards. The Forum was also the site of many historic concerts, including performances by The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Led Zeppelin. The arena’s unique design and intimate atmosphere made it a favorite among performers and fans alike.
Comparison of the Staples Center and the Forum
While the Staples Center and the Forum are two distinct venues, they share a common history and legacy in the Los Angeles sports scene. The Staples Center was built to replace the Forum as the primary indoor arena in Los Angeles, and it has since become one of the most iconic and successful arenas in the world. However, the Forum still holds a special place in the hearts of many Los Angeles sports fans, who remember the arena’s intimate and energetic atmosphere and the many historic events that took place there.
Differences Between the Staples Center and the Forum
There are several key differences between the Staples Center and the Forum. The Staples Center is a much larger venue, with a seating capacity of over 18,000 for basketball games and over 17,000 for hockey games. The Forum, on the other hand, had a seating capacity of over 17,000 for basketball games and over 16,000 for hockey games. The Staples Center also features a more modern design, with a retractable roof and a large video scoreboard. The Forum, while still an iconic venue, featured a more traditional design with a circular shape and a large dome.
Similarities Between the Staples Center and the Forum
Despite their differences, the Staples Center and the Forum share several similarities. Both venues have hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, boxing matches, and basketball games. Both venues have also been home to prominent sports teams, with the Lakers and Kings calling the Forum home for over 30 years and the Staples Center serving as their home arena since 1999. Both venues have also been known for their energetic and intimate atmospheres, making them favorite destinations for performers and fans alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Staples Center and the Forum are two distinct venues, they share a common history and legacy in the Los Angeles sports scene. The Staples Center is not the old Forum, but rather a new and modern arena that was built to replace the Forum as the primary indoor arena in Los Angeles. The Forum, while still an iconic venue, is a separate and distinct entity that holds a special place in the hearts of many Los Angeles sports fans. By understanding the history and evolution of both venues, we can appreciate the rich and complex landscape of the Los Angeles sports scene.
The following table highlights some of the key differences and similarities between the Staples Center and the Forum:
| Venue | Seating Capacity | Design | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staples Center | 18,000 (basketball), 17,000 (hockey) | Modern, retractable roof, large video scoreboard | NBA and NHL games, concerts, awards shows |
| Great Western Forum | 17,000 (basketball), 16,000 (hockey) | Traditional, circular shape, large dome | NBA and NHL games, concerts, boxing matches, awards shows |
Ultimately, the Staples Center and the Forum are two unique and iconic venues that have played important roles in the Los Angeles sports scene. By understanding their history, design, and notable events, we can appreciate the rich and complex landscape of the Los Angeles sports scene and the enduring legacy of these two beloved venues.
In terms of the impact on the Los Angeles community, the Staples Center has been a major driver of economic growth and development in the downtown area, with numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels springing up around the arena. The Forum, on the other hand, has been redeveloped into a thriving entertainment complex, with a new arena, a hotel, and a variety of retail and dining options. Both venues have had a lasting impact on the Los Angeles community, and their legacies will continue to be felt for generations to come.
The relationship between the Staples Center and the Forum is complex and multifaceted, with both venues playing important roles in the Los Angeles sports scene. The Staples Center has built on the legacy of the Forum, providing a modern and state-of-the-art venue for sports and entertainment events. The Forum, on the other hand, has maintained its historic charm and character, with its unique design and intimate atmosphere continuing to make it a beloved destination for fans and performers alike.
In the end, the Staples Center and the Forum are two unique and iconic venues that have played important roles in the Los Angeles sports scene. By understanding their history, design, and notable events, we can appreciate the rich and complex landscape of the Los Angeles sports scene and the enduring legacy of these two beloved venues. Whether you are a sports fan, a music lover, or simply someone who appreciates the history and culture of Los Angeles, the Staples Center and the Forum are two venues that are sure to captivate and inspire.
Is Staples Center the old Forum?
The Staples Center, now known as the Crypto.com Arena, is often confused with the old Forum, but they are actually two different venues. The Forum was a historic indoor arena located in Inglewood, California, and it was the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Kings from 1967 to 1999. The Staples Center, on the other hand, was opened in 1999 and is located in downtown Los Angeles. It has been the home of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Los Angeles Kings since its opening.
The confusion between the two venues may stem from the fact that they are both located in the Los Angeles area and have hosted many of the same teams and events. However, the Forum and the Staples Center are distinct venues with their own unique histories and characteristics. The Forum was known for its circular design and intimate atmosphere, while the Staples Center is a larger, more modern venue with a variety of amenities and seating configurations. Despite the differences between the two venues, both have played important roles in the history of sports and entertainment in Los Angeles.
What is the history of the Forum?
The Forum was opened in 1967 and was originally known as the Great Western Forum. It was built by Jack Kent Cooke, the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, and was designed to be a state-of-the-art venue for sports and entertainment. The Forum was the home of the Lakers and the Kings from 1967 to 1999, and it hosted many famous events, including concerts, boxing matches, and tennis tournaments. The Forum was also known for its distinctive circular design, which provided an intimate and exciting atmosphere for spectators.
The Forum was renovated and expanded several times during its history, including a major renovation in 1988 that added new seating and amenities. Despite its rich history and loyal fan base, the Forum was eventually replaced by the Staples Center as the primary venue for sports and entertainment in Los Angeles. The Forum was closed in 1999 and was subsequently renovated and reopened as a concert venue. Today, the Forum is once again a popular venue for live music and entertainment, and it continues to be an important part of the cultural and historical landscape of Los Angeles.
When was the Staples Center opened?
The Staples Center was opened on October 17, 1999, with a concert by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The venue was built by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) and was designed to be a state-of-the-art facility for sports and entertainment. The Staples Center was originally known as the Staples Center, but it was renamed the Crypto.com Arena in 2021 as part of a naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com. The venue has a seating capacity of over 18,000 and features a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and luxury suites.
The Staples Center was built to replace the Forum as the primary venue for sports and entertainment in Los Angeles, and it has since become one of the busiest and most popular venues in the world. The arena has hosted a wide range of events, including NBA and NHL games, concerts, and awards shows. The Staples Center is also home to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Los Angeles Kings, and it has hosted many notable events, including the Grammy Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards, and the Democratic National Convention.
What teams play at the Staples Center?
The Staples Center is home to several professional sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Los Angeles Clippers of the NBA, and the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Lakers and the Kings have played at the Staples Center since its opening in 1999, while the Clippers began playing at the venue in 1999 as well. The Staples Center has also hosted other sports teams and events, including the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Los Angeles Avengers of the Arena Football League.
In addition to its role as a sports venue, the Staples Center has also hosted a wide range of other events, including concerts, awards shows, and conventions. The venue’s flexible seating configuration and state-of-the-art amenities make it an ideal location for a variety of events, from intimate concerts to large-scale productions. The Staples Center has become an iconic part of the Los Angeles sports and entertainment scene, and it continues to be a popular destination for fans and visitors from around the world.
Can I take a tour of the Staples Center?
Yes, the Staples Center offers guided tours of the venue, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the arena’s history, amenities, and operations. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide information about the venue’s architecture, its teams and events, and its role in the Los Angeles sports and entertainment scene. The tours typically include visits to the arena’s seating areas, luxury suites, and backstage facilities, as well as the Lakers and Kings’ locker rooms and the venue’s iconic scoreboard.
The Staples Center tours are available on a daily basis, except on event days, and can be booked in advance through the venue’s website or by calling the arena’s box office. The tours are a great way for fans to get a closer look at the venue and learn more about its history and operations. The tours are also a good option for those who are interested in learning more about the business and logistics of running a major sports and entertainment venue. Whether you’re a sports fan, a music lover, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about the Staples Center, a guided tour is a great way to experience the venue in a unique and memorable way.
How do I get to the Staples Center?
The Staples Center is located in downtown Los Angeles, and it is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. The venue is situated near several major highways, including Interstate 10 and Interstate 110, and it has a large parking garage with over 3,500 spaces. The Staples Center is also served by several public transportation options, including the Metro Expo Line and the Metro Blue Line, which provide convenient access to the venue from throughout the Los Angeles area.
For those who prefer to use ride-sharing services or taxis, the Staples Center has a designated pick-up and drop-off area located near the venue’s main entrance. The venue is also within walking distance of several nearby hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient and accessible destination for visitors from throughout the region. Whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, or using a ride-sharing service, getting to the Staples Center is easy and convenient, and the venue’s staff are always happy to provide directions and assistance to help you get to your event on time.
What are the dining options near the Staples Center?
The Staples Center is surrounded by a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The venue itself has several concession stands and restaurants, including the popular Levy Restaurants, which offers a range of cuisine options, from classic arena fare to gourmet meals. The surrounding neighborhood is also home to many restaurants, bars, and cafes, including the LA Live complex, which features a variety of dining and entertainment options, including the Yard House, the Hard Rock Cafe, and the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are several high-end restaurants located near the Staples Center, including the Patina, the Palm, and the Blue Cow Kitchen. The venue is also within walking distance of several nearby hotels, many of which have their own restaurants and bars. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there are plenty of dining options near the Staples Center to suit every taste and budget. From classic American cuisine to international flavors, the dining options near the Staples Center offer something for everyone.