Detroit — Eight months ago, Little Caesars Arena opened downtown, amid pomp and circumstance, as the crown jewel of the District Detroit, a new entertainment district. The Pistons joined in partnership with the Red Wings and Ilitch Holdings, and those franchises ushered in a new era in Detroit sports as the home for both teams, just blocks away from the Tigers at Comerica Park and the Lions at Ford Field.
At a cost of $863 million, the arena was hailed as a technological marvel and template for future sports venues. Nestled north of the other major sports facilities, LCA added a new vibe to the downtown area, with restaurants and pedestrian-friendly outdoor areas, even on non-event days.