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Tad Smith Coliseum Tickets
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About Tad Smith Coliseum
Welcome to Tad Smith Coliseum, a historic multi-purpose arena on the University of Mississippi campus in Oxford, Mississippi. Although replaced by The Sandy and John Black Pavilion in 2016 and slated for demolition in 2026, the site remains a notable chapter in Ole Miss sports and music history. This page covers seating, parking, transit, and nearby hotel and dining options to help you plan a visit to Oxford. We’ve got you covered with practical details and trusted affiliate recommendations for an easy, no-fuss experience.
Seating and layout: Tad Smith Coliseum featured a circular bowl design with a 272-foot diameter roof and a floor located below ground level, delivering intimate sightlines for fans. The venue accommodated thousands during its operation and hosted memorable performances and sporting events. While the space is no longer used for regular shows, you can explore nearby venues for current Ole Miss events and concerts. If you’re researching the site for a visit or a nostalgic look back, historical context and photos are often available through university archives.
Parking: On-campus parking options were available around Confederate Drive and nearby lots. For current event-day logistics at nearby venues, plan to use designated university lots and accessible street parking highlighted in campus directions. If you’re visiting Oxford for archival events or a campus tour, check with university publications for the latest parking advisories and any changes related to redevelopment.
Transit: Oxford-University Transit (OUT) served the area with routes near campus. OUT offers affordable options for visiting fans and guests, with paratransit services available for accessible transportation. For real-time route information, check OUT’s official schedule before you head to Oxford.
Nearby hotels: For an overnight stay, reliable options within easy reach include The Inn at Ole Miss (120 Alumni Drive) and Graduate Oxford (400 N Lamar Blvd). These properties combine comfort with convenient access to central Oxford and Ole Miss, and are popular with visitors attending campus events. We’ve highlighted these affiliate partners for trusted booking and reliable service, but always compare current availability and terms on the hotel sites or through our partner network for the best possible arrangement.
Nearby dining: Oxford offers a vibrant restaurant scene nearby. From classic Southern cravings to modern eateries, you’ll find options to suit most tastes. For a quick bite before an event or a relaxed post-visit meal, consider local favorites within a short drive or walk from the campus. Always check current hours and reservations when planning your visit.
Plan your visit with confidence: Tad Smith Coliseum is an important part of Ole Miss history. While it no longer hosts events, understanding the site’s context, accessibility options, and local amenities helps you plan a smooth trip to Oxford. If you’re looking to secure seats or experiences around Ole Miss events, we can guide you to current options in nearby venues and the broader Ole Miss event calendar.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Capacity: 8,867 (2013–2016).
- Location/Address: Confederate Drive, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS 38677.
- Venue type: Multi-purpose arena / basketball venue on the Ole Miss campus.
- Seating/chart notes: circular bowl design; floor 12 feet below ground; 272-foot diameter roof; seating upgraded in 2001 and 2010.
- Renaming/history: opened as Rebel Coliseum (1966–1972); renamed C. M. 'Tad' Smith Coliseum on March 25, 1972.
- Replacement/demolition: replaced by The Sandy and John Black Pavilion in 2016; demolition planned for summer 2026; site to be used as surface parking.
- Transit: served by Oxford-University Transit (OUT); routes stop near campus; OUT is free for students and $1 per ride for visitors; paratransit available.
- Nearby hotels: The Inn at Ole Miss (120 Alumni Drive) and Graduate Oxford (400 N Lamar Blvd).
- Notable events: concerts such as Widespread Panic (1995) and The Allman Brothers Band with Gov’t Mule (1995); attendance record 9,452 on February 10, 2007.