Completed in 1983, the Saddledome was built not only to give the Flames a modern hockey arena, but to also help the city play host to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. In addition to hosting Olympic hockey, the venue also hosted World and Olympic figure skating championships over the past three decades. At various times, the Saddledome has also played host to a number of Professional Bull Riding events, which have proven to be very popular with sports fans in the region.
Located at 555 Saddledome Rise, it has a capacity of 19,289 for ice hockey games and other sporting events. Despite being one of the older arenas in the NHL, it is well-known for its number of luxury suites and party suites. Currently the building houses 72 luxury suites, with 41 situated on the lower level and 31 on the top level. The six party suites, designed to accommodate large numbers of fans, are rented out on an event by event basis. Along with the suites, the Saddledome has many restaurants and sports bars to give fans an added bit of excitement during games. For those fans who want a even more exclusive experience, it has the Fairmont Platinum Club. This 188-seat club, available by membership only, has its own private bar and restaurant.
During the 1988 Winter Olympics, the Saddledome was referred to as the finest international ice rink in the world by the Olympic Committee, and at the time was the largest arena ever used in the Olympic Games. It was also the first North American arena designed to accommodate the larger ice surface needed for international competition, since international hockey rinks are 13 feet wider than those used in the NHL.
Despite sustaining damage during the devastating floods of 2013, the Saddledome has continued to be one of Calgary's proudest achievements. Formerly known as the Olympic Saddledome, Canadian Airlines Saddledome and the Pengrowth Saddledome, there's little doubt that fans in Calgary will continue to turn out to see the Flames, Hitmen, Roughnecks and the many other competitors that showcase their skills on the ice and in other sporting events.