Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial

Blue Cross Arena exterior.One War Memorial Square
Rochester, NY  14614
(at the corner of Broad and Exchange Streets)

General Information

The Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial is a multi-purpose event complex located on the banks of the Genesee River in the heart of downtown Rochester, NY. Conveniently situated at the corner of Broad Street and Exchange Boulevard, it is located near other city landmarks, such as the Central Library and the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.  The initial building opened in 1955 (referred to as the "Rochester Community War Memorial"), and completed a $41 million dollar renovation in the fall of 1998. While owned by the City of Rochester, the complex is operated by SMG, a private management group dedicated to the full service operations of facilities worldwide. Visit the Blue Cross Arena's site for detailed facility information and upcoming events.

Features and Amenities

Year-round, the arena hosts a wide array of events from professional and high school sports, including the Rochester Amerks (AHL Hockey), the Rochester Knighthawks (NLL indoor lacrosse), and the Rochester Razorsharks (PBL basketball), to concerts and the circus, just to name a few. Many local high school players and spectators often refer to the building as "The Big House" during the various Section V playoffs held in the facility.

Various meeting and banquet rooms, along with full service catering, are available to the public to host your next special event. Look for booking information, rates and availability here.

Veteran's Memorial

The facility is also the proud home to the Veteran's Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the community's war dead and pays homage to area veterans who served our country during peacetime and war, at home and abroad. It offers a tranquil area of reflection and remembrance for the veterans, and a place where each generation can learn about the efforts and sacrifices of those who came before them. The memorial is open to the public daily and during all events in the building.

 

SEE ALSO

Downtown | Things To Do