TD Coliseum unveils North America’s first floor-level suites, exclusive clubs after $300M renovation

One of Hamilton’s biggest entertainment landmarks just got a $300-million facelift. The newly transformed TD Coliseum (known as Copps Coliseum and FirstOntario Centre in other lifetimes) has opened its sleek doors – and elevated exclusivity is front and centre. Led by Oak View Group (OVG), the overhaul dramatically changed the building’s infrastructure, acoustics, and, most notably, its hospitality experience. It saw the opening up of previously closed-off lower and street-level concourses, the creation of new entry points, and the materialization of a second, dedicated lower-level concourse. But the theme throughout the 18,000-seat venue is an unprecedented suite of premium amenities that provide a five-star experience to significantly upgrade the concertgoer experience (for members, that is).

North America’s first floor-level suites

At the pinnacle of the storied venue’s newfound exclusivity is the introduction of the Event Level Suites; nine ground-level spaces that are a first-of-its-kind in the North American arena business(!). While the suite life definitely has its perks, it traditionally doesn’t offer the best views in the house (not terrible, obviously, but not the closest). The Event-Level Suites, however, are uniquely built, with direct, open visual access to the arena bowl, eliminating the traditional (really nice) “bunker” feel of typical boxes. This is TD Coliseum’s biggest talking point, especially for the high-rolling set.

“We finally bring the suites down into the heart of the action,” said Paul Young, SVP Project Management, OVG. These floor-level VIP boxes sold out instantly, according to OVG, demonstrating the market demand for such an exclusive, immersive view. Of course, these stylish, and even apartment-like, suites are still packed with all the perks you’d expect from an arena box, complete with attendants, VIP washroom access, and private entryways.

The venue also includes fifteen revamped 100-level suites. TD Coliseum’s premium offerings extend far beyond the suites, however, with multiple exclusive lounges and clubs throughout the venue. I don’t use the term “exclusive” lightly: You need to have premium memberships – or friends with them – to access these diverse, tiered premium clubs and suites.

Members only: Five premium club spaces

The venue promises the “best seats in the house” for Premium members, who enjoy elevated seating with cupholders. Notably, the premium seats come in rows of four, so you’re never climbing over a dozen people to reach your seat. These ticket holders also have access to the venue’s five premium club spaces before, during, or after the event. All clubs and lounges offer distinct settings for guests to enjoy rotating menus, craft cocktails, and personalized services. Premium memberships are now available, with extremely limited availability.  

Sleek and quite sexy, with curvy decor and moody lighting, the TD Lounge is the venue’s most exclusive member-only retreat. Positioned strategically above the arena floor, the lounge provides a sophisticated atmosphere for socializing. Members can expect personalized VIP service alongside an elevated, all-inclusive hospitality program, featuring a gourmet selection of passed hors d’oeuvres and chef-bites – often incorporating local specialties like BackAlley Provisions charcuterie – and a top-shelf bar serving signature craft cocktails.

The mid-level features two glass-walled premium clubs, the Rogers Club and the House of Peroni. The sprawling Rogers Club, formerly a restaurant pre-renovation, features a large bar and offers what OVG calls “a first-class, seasonal dining experience.” Meanwhile, at Level 3, the House of Peroni is a 150-seat, members-only lounge offers a more laid-back lounge for mingling, quick bites, and flowing Peroni beer.

The most conversation-provoking club is the Vinyl Room, an intimate members-only lounge that blends a retro feel with modern luxury. Here, you’ll find a DJ booth, bar, and walls adorned with vinyl and music memorabilia. A strong focus on Canadian music means nods to Canadian greats like Blue Rodeo, The Tragically Hip, and Hamilton’s own The Arkells throughout the 68-capacity space. OVG is slowly rolling out Vinyl Rooms at its venues, and this is Canada’s first. 

Finally, the Event Level Club is the hub of the venue for pre- and post-show gatherings. Conveniently, it’s also the location of the Event Level Suites.

A feast for all

While the clubs and suites may offer a crème de la crème concert-going experience, life isn’t too shabby for everyone else – especially if they arrive hungry. The public concession offerings at the TD Coliseum have undergone a comprehensive upgrade, moving far beyond standard arena fare to feature diverse, high-quality, and locally inspired concepts.

OVG Hospitality partnered with celebrated local chef Matty Matheson, who is behind the new public-facing, pub-like restaurant, The Iron Cow Public House, and the arena’s concession concepts like Matty’s Patty’s Burger Club and Rizzo’s House of Parm. Other unique additions include Shaq’s Big Chicken. 

Guests can now also select from new signature items like the indulgent Buffalo Chicken Poutine from Fizzy Feathers, the savory French Dip Sandwiches at Dip City, and the authentic Carnitas Nachos from Casa Escobar, alongside more global flavours like Soy’s Shrimp Gyoza. These specialty items complement significantly upgraded arena staples we know and love, like gourmet footlong hot dogs and soft pretzels. For dessert, there’s classic treats like Mister Softee ice cream or the popular mini donuts and caramel popcorn available at Sugar and Salt.

Asahi Canada, the arena’s premium beverage provider, ensures the arena stays stocked with Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Asahi Super Dry, Grolsch Pilsner, Kozel Lager, and Pilsner Urquell. Through a partnership with Ace Beverage Group, guests can also enjoy a range of Canadian-made options, including Cottage Springs ready-to-drink beverages

Smarter access

The TD Coliseum’s focus on modernization is evident in its simultaneous focus on digital technology and physical accessibility. The venue introduced the TD Coliseum Mobile App, which acts as a centralized tool for seamless event management, offering everything from mobile ticketing to digital wayfinding maps. This digital experience is supported by complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the facility, ensuring continuous connectivity (keeping your phone charged is on you).

Eight autonomous grab-and-go markets and universal contactless payment options were implemented across the concourses to reduce buzz-killing transaction times and congestion. Furthermore, the venue was engineered for universal accessibility, featuring upgraded seating, the strategic addition of new vomitories for improved bowl access on every level, and the integration of three universal washrooms and AODA-compliant counters to ensure smooth, efficient movement for every patron.

By distributing luxury experiences across multiple levels and attracting a lineup of major acts like Paul McCartney (who officially launched the venue on Friday, November 21), Andrea Bocelli (December 9), and Brad Paisley (December 12), the TD Coliseum is positioned to become a top-tier destination venue, successfully shaking up Hamilton’s entertainment landscape and becoming a destination for out-of-towners. The venue is set to host over 90 concerts a year and is home to the 2026 Juno Awards. 

The revamped arena is located in the heart of downtown Hamilton, near the Hamilton GO Centre, the West Harbour GO Station and the seven-level York Street Parkade.