Kemper Arena: A Legendary Entertainment and Sporting Venue
Introduction
Kemper Arena, a legendary indoor arena located in Kansas City, Missouri, has a rich history of hosting unforgettable events. First opened in 1974, it has witnessed countless concerts, sporting matches, and exhibitions that have shaped the city's cultural landscape. This article delves into the history, significance, and enduring legacy of Kemper Arena.
Historical Significance
Kemper Arena was built at a cost of $22 million and named after Kansas City businessman and philanthropist William T. Kemper. Initially designed for sporting events, it quickly became a hub for entertainment and cultural gatherings.
Sporting Events
Throughout its history, Kemper Arena has played host to a wide array of sporting events, most notably:
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Hockey: Home to the Kansas City Scouts (NHL) from 1974 to 1982
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Basketball: Home to the Kansas City Kings (NBA) from 1972 to 1985
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Indoor Football: Host to various indoor football teams, including the Kansas City Brigade
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Rodeos: Site of the annual American Royal Rodeo and National Western Stock Show
Concerts and Entertainment
Kemper Arena has also been a premier venue for concerts and entertainment events:
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Music: Hosting iconic artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, U2, The Rolling Stones, and Elton John
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Circus: A regular stop for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
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Ice Shows: Home to elaborate ice shows like Disney on Ice and Holiday on Ice
Legacy and Impact
Kemper Arena has left an indelible mark on the city of Kansas City. Furthermore, it has:
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Boosted the local economy: Generated significant revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses
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Promoted tourism: Attracted visitors from across the country and internationally
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Enriched the cultural landscape: Provided a platform for world-class entertainment and sporting events
Recent Developments
In 2007, Kemper Arena underwent a $100 million renovation that modernized its facilities. However, the arena faced financial challenges in recent years, leading to its closure in 2019.
Currently, plans are underway to redevelop the Kemper Arena site into a $1.5 billion entertainment complex featuring:
- A new concert and event venue
- A hotel
- Restaurants and retail shops
- A public park
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Kemper Arena
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Arriving late: Allow ample time for parking and entering the arena, especially for major events.
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Bringing prohibited items: Check the arena's website for a list of items not permitted inside, such as weapons or outside food.
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Ignoring security protocols: Follow the instructions of security personnel and be prepared for bag checks.
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Purchasing tickets from unauthorized sources: Only buy tickets from the arena's official website or authorized ticket sellers.
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Smoking or vaping: Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside Kemper Arena.
How to Get to Kemper Arena
Kemper Arena is conveniently located in downtown Kansas City and is easily accessible by:
Car: Take I-70 to Truman Road exit. Turn north onto Truman Road and the arena will be on your right.
Public Transportation: KC Streetcar, the city's streetcar system, has a stop near Kemper Arena (Convention Center stop).
Walking: Kemper Arena is within walking distance of other downtown attractions, such as the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and Union Station.
Tables on Kemper Arena
1. Sporting Events Hosted at Kemper Arena
| Sport |
Team |
Years |
| Hockey |
Kansas City Scouts |
1974-1982 |
| Basketball |
Kansas City Kings |
1972-1985 |
| Indoor Football |
Kansas City Brigade |
1995-2000, 2008-2009 |
| Rodeo |
American Royal Rodeo |
Annual |
| Rodeo |
National Western Stock Show |
Annual |
2. Notable Concerts Held at Kemper Arena
| Artist |
Year |
| Bruce Springsteen |
1978, 1981, 1985, 1992, 1999, 2003 |
| Madonna |
1985, 1990, 1993, 2001, 2006, 2008 |
| U2 |
1987, 1992, 1997, 2001, 2005, 2009 |
| The Rolling Stones |
1975, 1981, 1989, 1994, 2002, 2005, 2013 |
| Elton John |
1973, 1974, 1979, 1982, 1986, 1992, 2000, 2004, 2008 |
3. Financial Data on Kemper Arena
| Year |
Revenue (USD) |
Expenses (USD) |
Net Income (USD) |
| 2016 |
$19,250,000 |
$22,500,000 |
(3,250,000) |
| 2017 |
$18,000,000 |
$21,000,000 |
(3,000,000) |
| 2018 |
$16,500,000 |
$20,250,000 |
(3,750,000) |
| 2019 |
$14,750,000 |
$19,500,000 |
(4,750,000) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Kemper Arena still open?
Answer: No, Kemper Arena closed in 2019.
2. What is the future of Kemper Arena?
Answer: Kemper Arena is planned to be redeveloped into a $1.5 billion entertainment complex.
3. What teams played at Kemper Arena?
Answer: The Kansas City Scouts (hockey), Kansas City Kings (basketball), and Kansas City Brigade (indoor football) were among the teams that played at Kemper Arena.
4. What concerts have been held at Kemper Arena?
Answer: Kemper Arena has hosted countless concerts, including performances by Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, U2, The Rolling Stones, and Elton John.
5. How do I get to Kemper Arena?
Answer: You can reach Kemper Arena by car, public transportation, or walking from nearby attractions.
6. What prohibited items are not allowed at Kemper Arena?
Answer: Prohibited items include weapons, outside food, and smoking devices.
Call to Action
Whether you're a resident of Kansas City or a visitor, Kemper Arena has played a significant role in the city's entertainment and cultural history. Make sure to stay updated on the redevelopment plans and explore the countless other events and attractions that Kansas City has to offer.
