Van Andel Arena

The arena that opened in 1996 for $78 million gave West Michigan something it didn't have: a room big enough for the biggest acts and the longest seasons. Home to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League — the top minor league affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings — and known locally as "The Freezer on Fulton," it seats 10,834 for hockey and up to 13,184 for concerts. Fans gave it that nickname. The building earned it.