It seems like it was only a matter of time, where the Michigan State Fairgrounds Hertel Coliseum was either to be put to another use, or was to be demolished. And, that is exactly what is happening right now as I write this. The coliseum is falling, another piece of Detroit history to be relegated to the dustbin. Besides hosting the Michigan State Fair, it also was home to the Shrine Circus, several hockey teams and even wrestling shows.


I didn't initially plan to photograph it. Today I went grocery shopping at Meijer, which is right next door to the coliseum. As I got out of my car and walked towards the store, I saw it. I knew at that moment I had to. There is something about a historical abandoned building coming down that grabs at your gut.


It was the end of my work day, so I had my drone on me. That is one thing I love about the drone...easy access. Below are the images I captured.

Side angle view of snow-covered Michigan State Coliseum with multiple building sections in Detroit, Michigan.
Exterior view of the Michigan State Coliseum with arched roof in winter snow conditions in Detroit, Michigan.
Michigan State Coliseum with blue structural supports covered in snow. in Detroit, Michigan
Panoramic view of the Michigan State Coliseum interior with exposed steel framework in Detroit, Michigan.
Interior view of the Michigan State Coliseum with blue steel roof trusses in Detroit, Michigan.
Michigan State Coliseum green entrance doors and three arches in Detroit, Michigan.

Here is the aerial image I captured.

Aerial view of the Michigan State Coliseum surrounded by snowy landscape in Detroit, Michigan.

Thanks for reading my photo story on the Hertel coliseum, while you are here, check out some of my other collections!

Urban skyline panorama featuring modern skyscrapers and office buildings of Detroit, Michigan.