The Coliseum
The historic concrete fortress where the Rams' legacy was forged and reborn.
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum stands as the historic fortress of the Los Angeles Rams, serving as their home during two distinct eras of franchise history. Originally hosting the team from 1946 through 1979, the stadium witnessed the rise of legendary defenses and iconic quarterbacks that defined the club's identity. After a 37-year absence, the Rams returned to the Coliseum from 2016 through 2019 as a temporary home before settling into SoFi Stadium.
- First Era
- 1946–1979
Lore & Background
The return to Los Angeles in 2016 brought a modern resurgence, utilizing the Coliseum as a bridge between eras while SoFi Stadium was constructed. This period reconnected the current generation with the rich heritage of the franchise's past. The stadium remains a National Historic Landmark, symbolizing resilience and continuity for supporters who cherish the connection to the team's golden years.
In Their Own Story
The sun dipped low over Exposition Park, casting long shadows across the gridiron. Inside the horseshoe-shaped stands, the air hummed with anticipation before kickoff. Fans clutched programs from decades past, tracing the names of legends like Merlin Olsen and Jack Youngblood printed in bold ink. As the band struck up a familiar tune, the concrete walls seemed to hold the echoes of every touchdown scored within them, bridging the gap between memory and reality.
Reader's Guide
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum represents more than just a venue; it is the beating heart of Southern California football culture. For decades, supporters gathered in the shadow of the concrete horseshoe to witness history unfold on the gridiron. The tradition of tailgating near Exposition Park has become a rite of passage for fans, blending culinary delights with pre-game camaraderie under the California sun. Sharing the grounds with USC Trojans created a unique dual identity, where college passion and professional grit mingled in the same stands. This shared heritage fostered a deep sense of pride among Rams supporters, who viewed the stadium as a temple of athletic excellence. The roar of the crowd echoing off the historic arches remains a cherished memory for those who attended games during the franchise's original tenure or its temporary return before moving to SoFi Stadium.
Did You Know?
- It is one of the oldest stadiums in the United States, having hosted professional football for 38 seasons across two eras, though no NFL team currently plays there as of 2025.
- The Rams played a total of 38 seasons at the venue across two separate eras: 34 seasons from 1946 to 1979, and 4 seasons from 2016 to 2019.
- It is designated as a National Historic Landmark for its historical significance as the site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics and other major events.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Rams play at The Coliseum?
The franchise played here across two separate time periods, starting in 1946 and ending in 1994 before a second stint from 2016 to 2019. These years cover their original tenure and their temporary return prior to building SoFi Stadium.
Do the Rams share this stadium with another team?
Yes, the venue is also the home field for the USC Trojans NCAA football program. This unique partnership allows professional and college games to be hosted within the same historic concrete structure.
What makes The Coliseum significant to the franchise history?
This location is where the club forged its legacy with legendary defenses and iconic quarterbacks during the mid-20th century. It remains a symbol of the team's roots before they eventually returned to Southern California as modern contenders.
Is The Coliseum still in use today?
Although the Rams have moved on, the stadium remains an active historic venue for various events and sports. It continues to stand as a major landmark within Exposition Park in Los Angeles, California.
Why did the Rams leave The Coliseum twice?
They first departed due to financial struggles that led to a relocation to St. Louis, while their second exit was part of a planned transition to SoFi Stadium. Both moves marked major shifts in how the organization operated within the Los Angeles market.
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