It’s one of the oldest stadiums in the United States and the 15th biggest football venue on the planet. And it just underwent a $140M renovation meant to give it a modern touch while preserving its classic look. Fans already witnessed the effects of the works during the State Fair Classic, but this is not the last improvement planned for the iconic Cotton Bowl.

Shinier on the outside, more comfortable on the inside

After 18 months of work, the Cotton Bowl renovation has come to an end. The changes are visible even from the outside, as the 95-years-old-stadium’s facade looks cleaner, but the most important effects are on the inside.

There, 14 escalators replaced the switchback ramps. Concourses were widened, and multi-story entryways were added. Fans will also appreciate better Wi-Fi, expanded bathrooms, more concessions and, perhaps most importantly, two outdoor terraces with views on the downtown. Changes were also made in the press box and premium seating areas, and more VIP suites were added. Ryan O'Connor, deputy director with Dallas Parks and Recreation, said on FOX4 that the main goal of the $140 million investment was to make the fan experience better. I feel like we accomplished that, he says.

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© Michael Barera | Cotton Bowl is the 15th largest football stadium on the planet.

“It should have always been this way”

In Dallas, the first step to present the renovation effects was the ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 20, but it wasn’t until last Saturday when the fans could judge the results by themselves during the annual State Fair Classic, which saw Prairie View A&M Panthers defeat the Grambling State Tigers by 28-13. Despite the works, the spirit and general layout of the Cotton Bowl wasn’t altered.

We wanted fans to feel like they are at the Cotton Bowl, and may even think ‘wow, it should have always been this way’, said Katie Miles, head of interior design at Overland International.

All the works, however, were only carried out in the west side of the stadium. The funding plan for the west side renovation is still to be decided.