When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
William Neal Reynolds Coliseum
Why William Neal Reynolds Coliseum is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
William Neal Reynolds Coliseum, officially named James T. Valvano Arena at William Neal Reynolds Coliseum, is a landmark multi-purpose arena located on the main campus of North Carolina State University (NC State) near downtown Raleigh. Opened in 1949, it was originally the largest basketball arena in the Southeast and has since become an iconic venue intimately tied to NC State's athletic and campus culture. The coliseum boasts a rich history, including being the longtime home to the men's basketball team and hosting two NCAA basketball championships in 1974 and 1983. Today, it is the permanent home for NC State women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling, and rifle teams, as well as the university's ROTC programs. The arena accommodates about 5,500 spectators, designed to create an intimate and engaging atmosphere for fans. As a center for campus life, Reynolds Coliseum hosts a wide range of events beyond sports, including convocations, graduations, keynote speeches, concerts, and student gatherings. Its recent $35 million renovation enhanced modern amenities such as air conditioning, updated seating closer to the court, new lighting, LED video boards, and upgraded hospitality and concession areas, elevating the fan and visitor experience. This blend of historic significance and contemporary facilities makes Reynolds Coliseum a special meeting place for students, alumni, and community members alike.
Here's what people think of William Neal Reynolds Coliseum
As of recent, William Neal Reynolds Coliseum holds a 4.8-star rating based on 734 reviews.
User reviews of William Neal Reynolds Coliseum overwhelmingly praise the venue for its vibrant atmosphere, historic legacy, and upgraded amenities. Many highlight the arena’s intimate seating arrangement, which brings spectators close to the action, enhancing game day excitement especially for women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics events. The recent renovations have been positively received, with fans appreciating added comforts such as the installation of air conditioning, improved restrooms, concessions, and technologically advanced LED lighting and video displays. Reviewers often note the Coliseum’s nostalgic value, recalling legendary games and famed coaches associated with the venue. The spaciousness and versatility of the coliseum for campus-wide events also receive commendation, confirming its role as a vital gathering spot for important university ceremonies and concerts. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention the somewhat reduced capacity compared to its historic peak, which occasionally limits ticket availability for highly anticipated events. A few users also note parking and traffic challenges on event days and suggest that access improvements could enhance convenience. Overall, the balance of positive feedback strongly portrays Reynolds Coliseum as a cherished and well-maintained facility that honors its storied past while serving as a modern campus hub, making it a premier destination for athletics and large-scale gatherings at NC State University.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
H S
I was in the section that was shaded. The seat was comfortable. The NC State graduation ceremony for 2025 was very nice, colorful. The speakers in section 3 were off so my section could not hear, but we could see everything. If you go to an event here go prepared with sunglasses, hat, protective clothing and sun block especially in face, neck and hands. Parking was fine. We ran into a few obnoxious drivers taking SUVs into sidewalks and yard space. Patience is the name of the game. The crowd was enormous but the stadium was accommodating. Hydrate well before exiting your vehicle. The best thing to do is to arrive very early, hydrate in your car, put on sunblock and walk on very early. If you are handicapped, it is best you get there very early to avoid the long lines.
The Red review
The best place to watch women’s basketball I’ve ever been to. Atmosphere is amazing with sell out crowds and great athletes playing at a high level. The band is so good and the cheer and dance teams are top notch. Also the gymnastics are here too which is great. If you get a chance go catch a game.
Meredith Foster
Let's Go Wolfpack Women! Always love going to Reynolds for a game. Smaller arena makes for a better environment. We've had seats in various places and while some aren't as great as others, as long as I'm in the house, I'm gonna be happy! Been going to WBB games for over 20 years, and it's a great family atmosphere!
Garrett
I love this place! We have watched mens and women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics at Reynolds. There is not a bad seat in the place. It is also filled with artifacts from NC State history. A visit to Reynolds is always worth it.
Garrett Krause
What a cool experience! Not a bad seat in the place, the energy was infectious, and the home team fans were very friendly! One of the best places to go see a college basketball game. Super fun atmosphere! And great for families.
H S
I was in the section that was shaded. The seat was comfortable. The NC State graduation ceremony for 2025 was very nice, colorful. The speakers in section 3 were off so my section could not hear, but we could see everything. If you go to an event here go prepared with sunglasses, hat, protective clothing and sun block especially in face, neck and hands. Parking was fine. We ran into a few obnoxious drivers taking SUVs into sidewalks and yard space. Patience is the name of the game. The crowd was enormous but the stadium was accommodating. Hydrate well before exiting your vehicle. The best thing to do is to arrive very early, hydrate in your car, put on sunblock and walk on very early. If you are handicapped, it is best you get there very early to avoid the long lines.
The Red review
The best place to watch women’s basketball I’ve ever been to. Atmosphere is amazing with sell out crowds and great athletes playing at a high level. The band is so good and the cheer and dance teams are top notch. Also the gymnastics are here too which is great. If you get a chance go catch a game.
Meredith Foster
Let's Go Wolfpack Women! Always love going to Reynolds for a game. Smaller arena makes for a better environment. We've had seats in various places and while some aren't as great as others, as long as I'm in the house, I'm gonna be happy! Been going to WBB games for over 20 years, and it's a great family atmosphere!
Garrett
I love this place! We have watched mens and women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics at Reynolds. There is not a bad seat in the place. It is also filled with artifacts from NC State history. A visit to Reynolds is always worth it.
Garrett Krause
What a cool experience! Not a bad seat in the place, the energy was infectious, and the home team fans were very friendly! One of the best places to go see a college basketball game. Super fun atmosphere! And great for families.
H S
I was in the section that was shaded. The seat was comfortable. The NC State graduation ceremony for 2025 was very nice, colorful. The speakers in section 3 were off so my section could not hear, but we could see everything. If you go to an event here go prepared with sunglasses, hat, protective clothing and sun block especially in face, neck and hands. Parking was fine. We ran into a few obnoxious drivers taking SUVs into sidewalks and yard space. Patience is the name of the game. The crowd was enormous but the stadium was accommodating. Hydrate well before exiting your vehicle. The best thing to do is to arrive very early, hydrate in your car, put on sunblock and walk on very early. If you are handicapped, it is best you get there very early to avoid the long lines.
The Red review
The best place to watch women’s basketball I’ve ever been to. Atmosphere is amazing with sell out crowds and great athletes playing at a high level. The band is so good and the cheer and dance teams are top notch. Also the gymnastics are here too which is great. If you get a chance go catch a game.
Meredith Foster
Let's Go Wolfpack Women! Always love going to Reynolds for a game. Smaller arena makes for a better environment. We've had seats in various places and while some aren't as great as others, as long as I'm in the house, I'm gonna be happy! Been going to WBB games for over 20 years, and it's a great family atmosphere!
Garrett
I love this place! We have watched mens and women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics at Reynolds. There is not a bad seat in the place. It is also filled with artifacts from NC State history. A visit to Reynolds is always worth it.
Garrett Krause
What a cool experience! Not a bad seat in the place, the energy was infectious, and the home team fans were very friendly! One of the best places to go see a college basketball game. Super fun atmosphere! And great for families.
How to reach William Neal Reynolds Coliseum
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Why rally at William Neal Reynolds Coliseum with your friends? This iconic arena, nestled in the heart of North Carolina State University’s main campus, provides a unique and vibrant atmosphere steeped in history and tradition, perfect for gathering with friends and family. Its rich legacy as the home of two men’s NCAA basketball championship teams and the current hub for NC State’s women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and wrestling teams adds a sense of pride and excitement that invigorates any meetup. Beyond sports, Reynolds Coliseum has hosted renowned speakers, concerts, and large-scale campus events, creating a dynamic environment where camaraderie and shared experiences flourish. The recently renovated state-of-the-art facilities ensure comfort and enhanced fan engagement—with modern seating, air conditioning, and advanced lighting and video displays making every event memorable. Its central location — just over two miles from downtown Raleigh — makes it both accessible and a key cultural landmark. Rallying here means immersing yourself and your group in the energy of collegiate competition, community spirit, and historical significance, making any outing something special and unforgettable.
What activities can you enjoy at William Neal Reynolds Coliseum? The coliseum serves as a versatile venue hosting a variety of athletic events such as women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and men’s wrestling. Watching these live performances offers an exhilarating way to bond over sportsmanship, team spirit, and thrilling competition. Aside from athletics, it also facilitates ROTC activities for the Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps, reflecting a broad engagement with campus life. Its multipurpose design accommodates concerts, keynote speeches, and ceremonies like convocations and graduations, ensuring there is always something happening that makes a group meetup interesting and engaging. Fans and visitors can stroll through the NC State Athletic Hall of Fame and Walk of Champions within the coliseum, celebrating legendary players and memorable moments, deepening the historical connection. With modern concessions, merchandise stands, and hospitality areas, the venue supports enjoyable social interactions around events, offering group-friendly amenities that enhance the overall experience.
Why is Reynolds Coliseum the perfect place for group meetups? With seating for 5,500 and flexible configurations accommodating up to 6,000, the venue strikes an ideal balance between an intimate and lively atmosphere for groups of varying sizes. Its recent $35 million renovation brought numerous upgrades — including improved seating arrangements closer to the court, enhanced climate control, and advanced LED lighting and video boards — heightening the spectator experience for groups who want to share every moment together in comfort and clarity. The presence of new hospitality zones and ample concession options caters well to socializing before, during, and after events, providing a natural setting for friends or families to connect. Located on NC State’s bustling main campus, it is easy to coordinate group meetups, especially with proximity to restaurants, transportation options, and downtown Raleigh. The venue’s welcoming environment encourages a spirit of community and celebration that is perfect for sports fans, alumni gatherings, or any casual get-together seeking a lively and meaningful backdrop.
What historical significance does Reynolds Coliseum hold that adds value to your experience? Opened in 1949, Reynolds Coliseum holds a treasured place in collegiate sports history as the home of NC State’s men’s basketball teams for nearly half a century, including during their national championship runs in 1974 and 1983. The court was renamed “Kay Yow Court” to honor the legendary women’s basketball coach, and in 2018, the arena itself was officially named James T. Valvano Arena at Reynolds Coliseum, paying tribute to the beloved men’s basketball coach who brought the program national attention. Beyond sports, the coliseum has welcomed influential figures — including civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and globally recognized music acts — making it a cultural hub with stories that resonate through decades. For groups meeting here, these layers of history create a rich narrative to share and appreciate, adding depth and meaning to every visit. Being present at such an iconic venue inspires a sense of pride and connection to a broader community history.
How does Reynolds Coliseum cater to comfort and convenience for visitors? The 2016 renovation dramatically enhanced visitor experience by incorporating air conditioning, a significant upgrade for a building that functioned without it for over 65 years. Seating has been thoughtfully redesigned to be more intimate and comfortable, bringing fans closer to the action, which intensifies the shared excitement of events hosted there. The addition of modern amenities like improved restrooms, multiple concessions outlets, and merchandise stands makes it convenient to enjoy the full day out without hassle. The latest LED sports lighting and large center-hung video boards provide clear sightlines and unforgettable visuals, crucial for engaged group viewing. All these features combine to make Reynolds Coliseum a venue where groups can easily enjoy themselves with minimal interruptions, allowing for a relaxed but exciting gathering space that meets contemporary standards without losing its historic charm.
What types of special events and large gatherings does Reynolds Coliseum accommodate? Beyond the thrill of sporting contests, Reynolds Coliseum is a prime location for campus convocation ceremonies, graduation celebrations, keynote speeches, concerts, and theatrical shows. This versatility means a group can schedule meetups around a broad spectrum of interests—from honoring academic milestones to enjoying live entertainment in a historic setting. The arena’s ability to host diverse events supports both formal and informal gatherings, providing a unique environment for celebrations or casual hangouts that feel significant. The presence of ROTC offices and programs within the venue also means military appreciation events and ceremonies add to the schedule, broadening the appeal for groups with different interests. The venue’s historical prestige combined with its modern functionality makes it a standout location to plan a memorable and meaningful outing tailored to a group’s preferences.
How accessible is Reynolds Coliseum for groups coming from around Raleigh? Reynolds Coliseum is conveniently located just 2.2 miles from downtown Raleigh on the main campus of NC State University, making it easily reachable by car, public transportation, and rideshare services. Its central position means groups coming from across the city or neighboring areas can gather without complicated travel logistics. Parking and transit options around the campus facilitate smooth arrival and departure for large groups, which is crucial when coordinating meetups. The proximity to downtown also allows visitors to extend their time together by exploring nearby restaurants, bars, or cultural spots before or after events. This accessibility makes Reynolds Coliseum an excellent choice for locals and visitors alike who want a hassle-free, centralized location to rally and enjoy shared experiences without worrying about complicated transportation issues.
What makes the atmosphere at Reynolds Coliseum unique for group gatherings? The blend of rich athletics heritage, historical significance, and modern enhancements creates an electrifying yet welcoming environment ideal for group activities. Being surrounded by Wolfpack fans and the energy generated during live competitions builds natural camaraderie and excitement that is deeply contagious. The arena’s medium size strikes a balance between a large event and an intimate space, allowing groups to feel engaged without getting lost in a sea of spectators. Inside, the signage, Hall of Fame tributes, and Walk of Champions provide points of interest that encourage exploration and storytelling among your friends and family. The genuine pride of NC State’s community permeates the venue, setting the stage for a rally of shared passion and lasting enjoyment, unmatched by more commercial or less historic venues.
What practical benefits are there for hosting family events or reunions at Reynolds Coliseum? Reynolds Coliseum offers ample space and facilities that can cater to families or large social groups seeking a comfortable setting for reunions or celebrations. Its wide-ranging amenities, including concession stands with diverse food options, multiple restrooms, and well-designed seating, make it suitable for all ages. The venue’s indoor environment means weather concerns are minimal, ensuring a reliable option year-round. The chance to combine sporting events, cultural happenings, and group activities under one roof allows hosts to customize an experience that appeals to a variety of interests present within family or friend groups. Its iconic status also creates a memorable backdrop, making meaningful moments even more special when captured on photos or shared in stories. The facility’s ability to accommodate and entertain large groups smoothly fosters an environment where everyone—from grandparents to children—can comfortably connect and enjoy the outing together.
How do amenities at Reynolds Coliseum enhance your overall group experience? In addition to the sporting and event thrills, Reynolds Coliseum offers excellent guest services that heighten group enjoyment. The merchandise stands enable fans to buy souvenirs or apparel to commemorate the day, strengthening group identity and memories. Hospitality areas provide spaces for groups to mingle, relax, and enjoy pre- or post-event conversations away from the crowd. High-quality concessions offer a variety of snacks and beverages, supporting socializing and comfort during long events. The upgraded lighting and sound systems ensure that every moment is vivid and clear, helping to create shared highlights that friends and family can bond over. All these amenities together ensure that groups have a rich, seamless experience where all needs—from entertainment to comfort—are thoughtfully addressed.
In sum, William Neal Reynolds Coliseum offers an unmatched blend of historic significance, vibrant athletic culture, contemporary comforts, and accessibility that makes it an exceptional site for rallying with friends and family. Whether cheering for NC State’s Wolfpack teams, attending a concert, or participating in special campus events, this iconic arena supports a diverse range of activities and group sizes. Its storied past, modern upgrades, and convenient location create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances social connections and collective celebration, making every visit a memorable shared experience. This coliseum is truly a remarkable destination where meaningful gatherings come alive in the spirit of community and excitement.