Cobo Hall / Huntington Place
Huntington Place, formerly known as Cobo Hall and Cobo Center, stands as Detroit’s primary convention center, playing a significant role in the city’s economic and cultural life. Originally constructed in 1960, the venue has undergone several name changes and renovations, reflecting shifts in ownership and the evolving landscape of Detroit itself. Its history is intertwined with that of former Detroit Mayor Albert E. Cobo, whose policies continue to be a subject of scrutiny, and the ongoing efforts to revitalize the city’s riverfront area.
History
The building’s origins lie in a desire to provide Detroit with a modern facility capable of hosting large-scale conventions, trade shows, and public events. Built by the City of Detroit, it initially opened as Cobo Hall, named in honor of Albert E. Cobo, who served as mayor from 1950 to 1957[1]. Cobo’s tenure as mayor was marked by significant urban development projects, but also by policies that contributed to racial segregation and displacement within the city[2]. The naming of the hall after him sparked controversy even at the time, and that controversy has resurfaced in recent years as discussions about racial justice and historical accountability have gained prominence.
In 2009, ownership and operation of the facility transitioned to the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA), established by the state of Michigan and leased from the City of Detroit for a 33-year period[3]. This change in management coincided with a series of name changes. The venue was first rebranded as Cobo Center, then as TCF Center in 2019 following a naming rights agreement with the financial institution TCF Bank. Most recently, in December 2021, it became Huntington Place, reflecting a new sponsorship agreement with Huntington National Bank[4]. These changes reflect the evolving economic partnerships and branding strategies associated with the facility.
Geography
Huntington Place is strategically located along the Detroit riverfront on Jefferson Avenue[5]. Its position provides convenient access for both domestic and international visitors, benefiting from proximity to major transportation routes and border crossings. The address is 1 Washington Boulevard, placing it within the immediate downtown core of Detroit. The facility’s location is integral to the city’s efforts to revitalize its riverfront, transforming it into a destination for recreation, tourism, and economic activity.
The convention center’s physical footprint is substantial, encompassing a large area that allows for a diverse range of events and exhibits. As of its current configuration, Huntington Place is the 16th largest convention center in the United States[6]. Its coordinates are 42°19′34″N 83°2′49″W, placing it in a geographically significant location within the city’s urban landscape. The surrounding area includes other major attractions, hotels, and businesses, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic environment.
Culture
Huntington Place serves as a focal point for a wide array of cultural events, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond. It hosts numerous conventions, trade shows, concerts, and public gatherings throughout the year, contributing significantly to Detroit’s cultural calendar. The venue’s capacity to accommodate large audiences makes it ideal for major events, including the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), which has historically been a prominent fixture at the center.
The building’s cultural significance is complicated by the legacy of its namesake, Albert E. Cobo. Cobo’s mayoral policies, which included urban renewal projects and housing initiatives, had a disproportionately negative impact on African American communities in Detroit[7]. This history has prompted ongoing discussions about the appropriateness of honoring him through the naming of a public space, and the recent rebranding as Huntington Place can be seen as a partial attempt to distance the venue from this controversial past. The current operators emphasize their commitment to diversity and inclusion, aiming to create a welcoming environment for all visitors.
Getting There
Accessing Huntington Place is facilitated by a variety of transportation options. Its downtown location provides convenient access via major highways, including I-375 and I-75. Public transportation options include the Detroit People Mover, which has a station directly connected to the facility, and the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus system, which serves numerous routes in the surrounding area.
For visitors arriving by air, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is approximately 30 minutes away by car or taxi. Several ride-sharing services also operate in the city, providing another convenient option for transportation to and from Huntington Place. Parking is available in several nearby garages and surface lots, though demand can be high during major events. The venue's location along the riverfront also encourages pedestrian and bicycle access, contributing to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
Economy
Huntington Place plays a crucial role in the Detroit area’s economy, generating significant revenue through events, tourism, and related spending. The venue directly employs a team of hospitality professionals, and indirectly supports numerous jobs in the hotel, restaurant, and transportation industries. The events hosted at Huntington Place attract visitors who spend money on lodging, dining, entertainment, and other goods and services, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the city.
The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA), which owns and operates Huntington Place, is responsible for managing the facility’s finances and ensuring its long-term sustainability. The DRCFA works to attract major events to Detroit, and to enhance the venue’s appeal to event organizers and attendees. The ongoing investment in renovations and upgrades is intended to maintain Huntington Place’s competitiveness in the convention center market, and to attract new business to the city. The venue’s success is closely tied to the broader economic health of Detroit, and its continued growth is seen as a positive sign for the city’s future.