The Broadmoor World Arena in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has a rich history that spans decades, evolving from a modest ice palace to a state-of-the-art multi-purpose venue. Originally known as the Colorado Springs World Arena, this facility has undergone significant changes since its inception, reflecting the dynamic nature of sports and entertainment venues. This article delves into the historical development of the Broadmoor World Arena, highlighting
key milestones and transformations that have shaped its current identity.
The Original Broadmoor Ice Palace
The story of the Broadmoor World Arena begins with its predecessor, the Broadmoor Ice Palace, which opened in 1938. Located at The Broadmoor Resort & Spa, this venue was initially an outdoor equestrian center before being converted into an ice arena. The Ice Palace quickly became a hub for figure skating and hockey, hosting the Colorado College Tigers hockey team and the Broadmoor Skating Club. It was also the site of the first ten NCAA Hockey Championships, establishing its reputation as a premier sports venue.
The intimate atmosphere of the Ice Palace, with its wooden seats and wildlife paintings, made it a unique setting for sporting events. Despite its charm, the venue was eventually closed in 1994 to make way for a $27 million expansion of the resort. The last major event held at the Ice Palace was the 1994 World Junior Figure Skating Championships, marking the end of an era.
Transition to the Modern World Arena
In 1998, the Broadmoor World Arena opened its doors as a replacement for the original Ice Palace. This new facility was designed to accommodate a wider range of events, featuring an 8,000-seat capacity and two adjacent practice rinks. The arena quickly became a central venue for concerts, sports, and other entertainment events, hosting editions of Skate America and serving as the home for the Broadmoor Skating Club and Colorado Gold Speedskating Club.
The transition from the Ice Palace to the modern World Arena was marked by significant upgrades in infrastructure and capacity. The new venue was equipped to host large-scale events, including the PBR Bud Light Cup and the Colorado College Tigers men's ice hockey team. These changes reflected the growing demand for versatile and expansive entertainment spaces in Colorado Springs.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
In 2014, the arena was formally renamed the Broadmoor World Arena following an agreement with the Anschutz Entertainment Group. This rebranding aimed to leverage the name recognition of the original Ice Palace while continuing to serve as a premier venue for sports and entertainment.
Today, the Broadmoor World Arena remains a vital part of Colorado Springs' cultural landscape, hosting a variety of events and managing the Pikes Peak Center. As the venue continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Broadmoor Ice Palace and its impact on the community. The future of the arena looks promising, with ongoing developments ensuring it remains a top destination for entertainment in the region.
