Metrodome – historical stadium description

In early 1970s Minnesota Vikings began lobbying for a new stadium. The outdated Metropolitan Stadium proved insufficient for the new demands. Plan was to erect an indoor arena with a then-revolutionary pneumatic membrane roof.

The stadium was able to hold 62,220 people upon opening in 1982, built at the price of $ 55 million. From its earliest days it hosted both American football and baseball games of Vikings (US football)  and Golden Gophers and Twins (baseball). This combination was possible thanks to installation of telescopic stands in parts of the lower ring.  

Over the years Minneapolis weather proved too much for the membrane roof, which suffered from several accidents. Most recent one took place in December 2010, when rips and wholes caused by heavy snowfall made the entire roof deflate and collapse, letting snow into the stadium. Its repairs took almost half a year and cost $18 million.

In 2013 the stadium was used by Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota United FC (football, NASL) and the Golden Gophers (baseball). Currently the stadium is closed and being demolished as the new Vikings Stadium is being built partly in the same location.