J.S. Dorton Arena Raleigh
An architectural marvel from 1952, this arena boasts a unique suspended roof and hosts diverse events, from concerts to cultural festivals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures outside
J.S. Dorton Arena Raleigh
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures outside

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An architectural marvel from 1952, this arena boasts a unique suspended roof and hosts diverse events, from concerts to cultural festivals.
"The space and layout is a real masterpiece, if you are the type who appreciates architecture."
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
It gets VERY cold in winter and HOT in summer. Bring layers to adjust! :snowflake:
🚚 Explore the Food Trucks
Don't miss the amazing food trucks and market stalls next door for diverse eats. :taco:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Cable-Suspended Roof
Exterior Architecture
A groundbreaking 1950s design, the arena's unique roof was the first of its kind globally.

Vibrant Flea Market Finds
Adjacent Market Area
Discover a treasure trove of goods, from vintage hats to unique crafts. A true shopper's delight!

Diverse Event Lineup
Main Arena Floor
From cheer competitions and BJJ tournaments to concerts and political rallies, there's always something happening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Weather (Inside!)
Beyond the Arena: Food Trucks & Markets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
It gets VERY cold in winter and HOT in summer. Bring layers to adjust!
:snowflake:🚚 Explore the Food Trucks
Don't miss the amazing food trucks and market stalls next door for diverse eats.
:taco:🎟️ Check Event Ticketing
Some events require advance purchase; others offer tickets at the door.
:ticket:🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be tight during major events; consider rideshares or public transport. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
It gets VERY cold in winter and HOT in summer. Bring layers to adjust!
:snowflake:🚚 Explore the Food Trucks
Don't miss the amazing food trucks and market stalls next door for diverse eats.
:taco:🎟️ Check Event Ticketing
Some events require advance purchase; others offer tickets at the door.
:ticket:🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be tight during major events; consider rideshares or public transport. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise J.S. Dorton Arena for its unique architectural design and the vibrant atmosphere during events. The adjacent food trucks and flea market are consistently highlighted as major draws, offering diverse and affordable culinary experiences. However, comfort can be an issue, with the arena being notoriously cold in winter and hot in summer, necessitating careful attire.
"Spacious, though cold during winter and very hot during summer. We have visited here for a few BJJ matches...IF OTS CHILLY OUTSIDE, LAYER UP CAUSE ITS FREEZING INSIDE.
The space and layout is a real masterpiece, if you are the type who appreciates architecture.
The best thing about this place are the food trucks and open market to the left of the building. Lil Reggie's Cookies is one of the many vendors. Wide range of ethnic based foods and all very good!"
Jen Campbell
"The flea market is great. You can find anything here. Bought a great hat"
Alicia Gonzalez
"I gave 3 stars because it is extremely crowded no matter when you go and they are getting rid (the state fair deciders) that is, of the church food strip. This common area was in a good area. They are essentially one of the two maybe three spots where you do not have to pay an arm and a leg to get a can of soda. They are affordable for normal people (family on a budget) (people on a budget.) The dizzy pass which is suppose to include the unlimited wrist band and an admission ticket has turned scam. I bought a dizzy pass and had to buy an admission ticket to get in. 🤮"
Crystal Mitchell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
J.S. Dorton Arena is located at 1015 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, often associated with the NC State Fairgrounds. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site, though it can get crowded during large events. Public transportation options might be limited depending on the event schedule.
Parking availability can vary greatly depending on the event. For major events like concerts or the state fair, parking lots can fill up quickly. Arriving early or considering rideshare services is often recommended.
Yes, there are numerous hotels near J.S. Dorton Arena in Raleigh, catering to various budgets. The search term 'hotels near js dorton arena raleigh nc' yields many options, making it convenient for visitors attending events. [^SEO]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket purchasing methods vary by event. Some events offer tickets online in advance, while others sell them at the door. It's best to check the specific event organizer's website or social media for details.
The arena itself doesn't have fixed public operating hours as it hosts events on a schedule. Hours are dictated by the specific event taking place. Always check the event details for opening and closing times.
Discounts can sometimes be available for events, especially if purchased in advance or as part of a package. For example, the Chinese New Year Festival offered $5 advance tickets.
Be sure to look for early bird specials or group rates. :moneybag:Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the arena, though policies can vary by event. However, the adjacent food trucks and market offer a wide variety of affordable options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
J.S. Dorton Arena hosts a diverse range of events, including concerts, sporting events like BJJ competitions and wrestling, cheerleading competitions, political rallies, and cultural festivals such as Vietnamese and Chinese New Year celebrations.
While specific accessibility details can vary by event setup, arenas like J.S. Dorton are generally designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. It's advisable to contact the event organizer directly for specific needs. :wheelchair:
The arena is renowned for its unique, futuristic architecture, featuring a groundbreaking cable-supported roof designed by Matthew Nowicki. Its glass exterior and distinctive shape make it an architectural marvel.
The atmosphere can be electric, especially during popular concerts or competitive events. Cultural festivals also bring a vibrant and energetic feel, with high energy and entertainment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options inside the arena can be limited and sometimes pricey. However, the real culinary draw is the array of food trucks and market vendors located just outside the arena, offering diverse and delicious choices.
The market and food trucks offer a wide range of ethnic cuisines and local favorites. You can find everything from cookies and ethnic dishes to more standard fair fare.
Many visitors find the food trucks and market vendors to be a more affordable and satisfying dining option compared to concessions inside the arena.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the arena, with its distinctive roofline and glass facade, offers excellent photo opportunities. Inside, focus on capturing the energy of the event and the unique architectural elements.
Photography and videography policies can vary by event. For concerts, personal use photos are often allowed, but professional equipment or recording may be restricted. Always check the event's specific rules. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Dorton Arena Design
Nowicki's design aimed to create a space that was both functional for livestock shows and aesthetically striking for public events. Tragically, Nowicki passed away before the arena's completion, but his vision was carried forward, resulting in a structure that continues to impress visitors with its bold engineering and timeless design. The arena has hosted a multitude of events over the decades, from agricultural fairs and concerts to sporting competitions, all under its remarkable roof. Its architectural significance has cemented its place in the history of American design and engineering.
Visitors often remark on the arena's impressive structure, even if they are not architecture enthusiasts. The sheer scale and unique engineering of the roof are frequently highlighted in reviews and social media posts. It’s a structure that sparks conversation and admiration, making it a point of interest beyond the events it hosts. The blend of historical significance and forward-thinking design makes J.S. Dorton Arena a must-see for anyone interested in architectural landmarks.
A Hub for Diverse Events and Community Gatherings
Beyond sports and music, Dorton Arena serves as a significant cultural hub. It has been a popular venue for vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Vietnamese New Year (Tet) and the Chinese New Year celebrations, bringing communities together for joyous festivities, authentic food, and lively entertainment. The arena has also been a site for significant political events, including campaign rallies, underscoring its role in public discourse. This broad spectrum of events ensures that J.S. Dorton Arena remains a relevant and active part of Raleigh's cultural and social landscape.
The arena's capacity and adaptable layout make it suitable for a wide range of gatherings, from large-scale public events to more specialized competitions. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transform to suit the needs of each unique occasion, consistently drawing diverse audiences and fostering memorable experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit