TCF Center (formerly Cobo)

Huntington Place, located on the Detroit riverfront, is a major convention center with a history stretching back to 1960. Originally known as Cobo Hall, and later as Cobo Center and TCF Center, the venue has served as a central hub for events ranging from the North American International Auto Show to political conventions and concerts. Its construction was spurred by the ambition of former Detroit Mayor Albert Cobo, and it remains a significant component of Detroit’s economic and cultural landscape.

History

The building of Huntington Place was initiated by the City of Detroit and officially opened on August 15, 1960, as Cobo Hall . It was named in honor of Albert Cobo, who served as Detroit’s mayor until his death in 1957 . Cobo had championed the idea of a large-scale convention center for the city, believing it would boost the local economy and attract visitors. The project took four years to complete and cost $56 million at the time, equivalent to approximately $441 million today when adjusted for inflation . The site chosen for the center held historical significance, as it was the location where Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac first landed in 1701, establishing Detroit .

The venue underwent several name changes over the decades. It was initially known as Cobo Hall, then transitioned to Cobo Center in 2010 . In February 2019, the naming rights were acquired by TCF Bank, resulting in the center being renamed TCF Center . Most recently, in December 2021, the center was rebranded as Huntington Place . Throughout its history, the center has played host to a diverse range of events, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of Detroit’s event infrastructure.

Geography

Huntington Place is situated along the Detroit riverfront on Jefferson Avenue . The complex occupies approximately 17 acres of land , providing substantial space for conventions, exhibits, and events. Its location on the riverfront offers scenic views and accessibility to other attractions in the area. The address for Huntington Place is 1 Washington Boulevard .

The center’s coordinates are 42°19′34″N 83°2′49″W . This positioning makes it a central point within the city, easily accessible from major roadways and public transportation options. The surrounding area has undergone significant development in recent years, with improvements to the riverfront and the addition of new businesses and residential buildings. The proximity to the Detroit River Walk enhances the appeal of Huntington Place as a destination for both event attendees and visitors to the city.

Culture

Huntington Place has been a significant venue for cultural events throughout its history. Cobo Arena, which opened in 1960 alongside Cobo Hall, hosted numerous concerts by prominent musical acts, including the Doors, Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones, the Who, Bruce Springsteen, Queen, Kiss, and Weezer . The arena also served as a venue for presidential speeches, boxing matches, wrestling events, figure skating competitions, roller derby, and local graduation ceremonies.

Beyond concerts and sporting events, Huntington Place is most recognized as the home of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) . Since 1965, the Auto Show has been the facility’s largest annual event, drawing automotive enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the globe. The Auto Show’s presence has significantly contributed to Detroit’s identity as the “Motor City” and has boosted the local economy. The venue also hosts a variety of other conventions and trade shows, catering to diverse industries and interests.

Economy

As one of the 17th largest convention centers in the United States , Huntington Place contributes significantly to the economic vitality of Detroit and the surrounding region. The events held at the center generate substantial revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. The North American International Auto Show, in particular, has a considerable economic impact, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and generating millions of dollars in spending.

The operation of Huntington Place itself provides employment opportunities for a wide range of positions, including event management, security, hospitality, and maintenance. The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority owns the center , while ASM Global manages its day-to-day operations . The center’s continued success is vital to attracting future investment and fostering economic growth in the city.

Getting There

Huntington Place is accessible via a variety of transportation methods. Being located in downtown Detroit, it is easily reached by car via major highways, including I-375 and I-75. Parking options are available in nearby garages and surface lots. Public transportation options include the Detroit People Mover, which has a station at the facility, and the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus system .

For visitors arriving by air, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is approximately 30 minutes away by car or taxi. The airport offers connections to destinations across the United States and internationally. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, also provide convenient transportation options to and from Huntington Place. The center’s central location and accessibility make it a convenient destination for attendees traveling from both near and far.