Mercedes-Benz Superdome
The largest fixed domed structure in the world and home of the New Orleans Saints.
Caesars Superdome (originally Louisiana Superdome and formerly Mercedes-Benz Superdome), commonly known as the Superdome, is an indoor stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. It has served as the home venue of the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL) since its opening in 1975.
- Role
- Primary Home Arena
- Location
- Downtown New Orleans, Louisiana
- Opened
- 1999
- Original Name
- New Orleans Arena
- Renamed To Current
- 2014
- Capacity_Basketball
- Approximately 16,867
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Plans to build the Superdome were drawn up in 1967 by the New Orleans modernist architectural firm of Curtis and Davis and the building opened as the Louisiana Superdome in 1975. Its steel frame covers a 13-acre expanse and the 273-foot dome is made of a lamellar multi-ringed frame and has a diameter of 680 feet, making it the largest fixed domed structure in the world. The Superdome has hosted eight Super Bowls (the most of any stadium as of 2025's Super Bowl LIX), and six NCAA championships in men's college basketball. In college football, the Sugar Bowl has been played at the Superdome since 1975, which is one of the 'New Year's Six' bowl games of the College Football Playoff and the 2020 National Championship. It also traditionally hosts the Bayou Classic, a rivalry game played between the historically black universities Southern University and Grambling State University. The Superdome was also the long-time home of the Tulane Green Wave football team of Tulane University until 2014 when they returned to Yulman Stadium on their campus, and was the home venue of the New Orleans Jazz of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 until 1979. In 2005, the Superdome housed thousands of people seeking shelter from Hurricane Katrina. The building suffered extensive damage as a result of the storm, and was closed for many months afterward. The building was repaired and reopened in time for the Saints' 2006 home opener on September 25.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the dome hums with a low-frequency vibration before tip-off, a mix of distant brass music echoing from the concourse and the sharp squeak of sneakers on hardwood. Under the vast, white canopy, the court glows like an island in a sea of navy blue seats. As the crowd rises for the national anthem, the sheer weight of the city's history presses down on the arena, not as a burden, but as fuel. When the ball finally hits the rim and the net snaps, the sound bounces off the high ceiling, creating a thunderous wave that rolls through downtown New Orleans.
Reader's Guide
The Superdome is an indoor stadium, not a basketball arena. It has a football capacity that can be expanded, and its dome diameter is 680 feet. The Smoothie King Center is not mentioned in the source article.
Did You Know?
- The Superdome was originally named the Louisiana Superdome when it opened in 1975.
- It has hosted eight Super Bowls, the most of any stadium as of 2025's Super Bowl LIX.
- The Superdome was the home venue of the New Orleans Jazz of the NBA from 1975 until 1979.
- During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Superdome housed thousands of people seeking shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome?
Originally called the Louisiana Superdome, this downtown New Orleans stadium has served as the primary home arena for the Pelicans since their 2002 relocation from Charlotte. It is a historic multi-purpose venue that officially adopted its current name in 2014.
Why is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome important to the team?
The arena acts as a resilient fortress where the Pelicans have built their identity while surviving natural disasters and hosting championship-level talent. Its intimate basketball configuration allows fans to feel close to the action despite its massive global reputation for hosting Super Bowls.
When did the Mercedes-Benz Superdome open?
This engineering marvel first opened its doors in 1975, long before it became the dedicated home of New Orleans professional basketball. It has stood as a central landmark in the Crescent City for nearly five decades.
How many fans can fit inside during a Pelicans game?
When configured specifically for basketball, the stadium holds approximately 16,867 spectators to create an intense atmosphere. This capacity ensures that every home game feels like a packed event within the domed structure.
Where is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome located?
The arena stands in the heart of downtown New Orleans, Louisiana, serving as the central hub for the city's basketball culture. Its prominent location makes it an accessible and iconic destination for fans visiting the Crescent City.
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