Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium
Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium stands as a premier sports and entertainment venue in Canton, Ohio, directly adjacent to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This state-of-the-art facility honors football's rich heritage while providing modern amenities for world-class events.
Stadium History & Transformation
Originally opened in 1938 as Fawcett Stadium, the venue underwent a complete reconstruction and was renamed in 2017 after New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson, who donated $10 million toward its renovation. This transformation was part of the larger Hall of Fame Village development project.
The stadium's rebirth represented a quantum leap forward in design and capabilities:
- The original concrete structure was completely rebuilt into a modern sports complex
- Capacity increased to approximately 23,000 spectators
- NFL-caliber playing surface and facilities were installed
- Premium spectator amenities were incorporated throughout
Today's Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium represents an investment of over $150 million and serves as the centerpiece of the emerging Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls.
Stadium Features & Design
The stadium incorporates numerous advanced features:
Spectator Experience
- Stadium-wide Wi-Fi connectivity
- Two massive HD video boards (50' x 90' north end, 50' x 30' south end)
- Premium sound system with distributed speakers
- Comfortable seating with excellent sightlines throughout
- Covered seating sections protecting fans from weather
Premium Areas
- 20 luxury suites with indoor/outdoor seating
- Club level seating with exclusive amenities
- Field-level hospitality suites
- Premium food and beverage options
Playing Surface
- State-of-the-art turf system designed to NFL specifications
- Advanced drainage and heating systems
- Ability to reconfigure for different sports and events
- Comprehensive lighting system for night events and broadcasts
Facilities
- Modern locker rooms meeting professional sports standards
- Media facilities for national broadcasts
- Operations center with cutting-edge technology
- Multi-purpose spaces for events and gatherings
Signature Events
The stadium hosts several nationally recognized events each year:
Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week
The stadium's busiest period comes during the annual Enshrinement Week each August, featuring:
- Hall of Fame Game: The NFL preseason's traditional opening game
- Enshrinement Ceremony: Where new Hall of Fame members receive their iconic gold jackets
- Concert for Legends: A major concert featuring internationally renowned musical artists
- Enshrinees' Gold Jacket Dinner: A gala celebration for new inductees
Other Major Events
Throughout the year, the stadium hosts a diverse calendar:
- NCAA Division III Football Championship
- OHSAA High School Football State Championships
- Major concert tours
- International soccer matches
- Collegiate sporting events
- Community celebrations and festivals
The Fan Experience
Visitors to Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium enjoy numerous amenities:
Concessions
Multiple concession areas serve diverse food and beverage options, from traditional stadium fare to local specialties and premium offerings.
Merchandise
Official Hall of Fame and event merchandise is available at retail locations throughout the stadium.
Accessibility
The stadium was designed with comprehensive accessibility features:
- Wheelchair seating areas with companion seats
- Accessible restrooms and concessions
- Elevators to all levels
- Dedicated accessible parking areas
- Assistive listening devices available
Nearby Attractions
The stadium's location within the Hall of Fame Village makes it easy to combine event attendance with visits to:
- The Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum
- Hall of Fame Village attractions
- Downtown Canton (a short drive away)
Stadium Impact & Legacy
Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium has become a significant economic driver for Canton and the surrounding region:
- Creates temporary and permanent employment opportunities
- Generates substantial tourism revenue during major events
- Raises Canton's national profile through televised events
- Serves as an anchor for continued development
- Provides a venue for community events and celebrations
Planning Your Visit
Ticketing
Tickets for events vary by type and can be purchased through:
- The official Pro Football Hall of Fame website
- Ticketmaster and other authorized outlets
- The Box Office (located at the north entrance)
Transportation
The stadium is easily accessible:
- Located just off Interstate 77 (Exit 107B)
- 15 minutes from Akron-Canton Airport
- Rideshare services readily available
- Special event shuttles from downtown Canton during major events
Visitor Tips
- Purchase tickets well in advance for Hall of Fame Week events
- Arrive early to explore the surrounding Hall of Fame Village
- Check weather forecasts as events proceed in various conditions
- Review security policies before attending as clear bag policies are typically enforced
- Consider booking nearby accommodations for multi-day events
Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium stands as a fitting tribute to football excellence and represents Canton's continued commitment to honoring the sport's past while creating meaningful experiences for fans today.
