Raleigh would not be Raleigh without the Dorton Arena. It is a building for all purposes. Such an interesting design. More

Dorton Arena is one the engineering marvels of NC. It's great to just look at, and on weekends when the flea market is open it's great for people watching. The problem is that the accoustics suck. The various low level sporting events are ok, but when they book music acts for the State Fair, if you're not in the front... More

Been to this facility for several events. Not used as much now for events besides for state fair concerts and shows such as the gun and knife shows, Fair concerts lack a little in sound transfer, More

It may be a NC landmark, but the arena is starting to show its age. Not only that, but if you were hoping to attend a show that includes dim-lighting (like the circus, per se), don't go in the daytime; the windows let in too much light for dramatic effect and not enough to keep the room well-lighted. More

Dorton Arena is one of the most unique multi-purpose venues around. Designed to serve as a livestock showplace, it was originally called the "Cow Palace." Dorton is the centerpiece of the NC State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, where it hosts nightly concerts throughout the annual fair's 10-day run. Additionally, sporting events such as basketball and hockey have often been held there.... More