Thompson Arena Explained

Rupert C. Thompson Arena
Location:Hanover, NH
Broke Ground:1973
Opened:November, 1975
Owner:Dartmouth College
Operator:Dartmouth College
Surface:200x90 ft (hockey)
Construction Cost:$4.4 million
Architect:Pier Luigi Nervi
Tenants:Dartmouth Big Green
(men's and women's ice hockey)
Seating Capacity:3,500 (hockey) (4,500 with standing room only)

43.7011°N -72.2803°WRupert C. Thompson Arena is a 3,500-seat hockey arena in Hanover, New Hampshire. It is home to the Dartmouth College Big Green men's and women's ice hockey teams. The barrel-vaulted, reinforced concrete arena was designed by renowned architect Pier Luigi Nervi. It was named for Rupert C. Thompson '28, the major benefactor of the project, and replaced Davis Rink, the original "indoor" home of Dartmouth hockey from 1929 to 1975. (Davis Rink, which was located next to old Alumni Gym, was demolished in 1985 to make way for the Berry Sports Center.)

The Arena has also hosted concerts, and in May 1978 featured the Grateful Dead in a packed sold-out stadium for the band's only appearance in New Hampshire.[1]

Renovations

In 2016, both the men's and women's locker rooms were renovated. At the same time, the rink also got new dasher boards, glass and a refrigeration system.

In July 2025, the 50th anniversary of the Arena's opening, Dartmouth announced a 11,050-square foot renovation. The project includes a new locker room for both the men's and women's ice hockey teams, a new team lounge, weight room and coaching suite. The Arena would also receive new additions to the concourse to improve fan enjoyment.[2] The renovation is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Grateful Dead Venues: Thompson Arena, Dartmouth College . February 24, 2026.
  2. Web site: Dartmouth's Thompson Arena set to undergo 11,050-square-foot renovation project, will benefit Big Green men's, women's hockey teams . USCHO . July 25, 2025 . March 2, 2026.