The roof is an air-supported structure, relying on constant air pressure to maintain its inflated shape.
The facility's construction cost was approximately $7.5 million in the mid-1970s.
It has hosted the Iowa High School State Wrestling Championships for several decades, a massive regional draw.
The roof material is a fabric composed of Teflon-coated fiberglass, designed to allow sunlight to filter through.
The interior space is large enough to contain over 150,000 square feet of floor space.
The UNI-Dome is a multi-purpose indoor stadium situated on the University of Northern Iowa campus in Cedar Falls. It serves as the primary home venue for the UNI Panthers football team and hosts large-scale concerts, trade shows, and high school athletic championships. The structure features a distinctive Teflon-coated fiberglass roof supported by air pressure, an iconic example of air-supported architecture. Opened in 1976, the facility can accommodate over 16,000 spectators for athletic events. It is a central hub for community gatherings and state-level indoor sporting tournaments in Iowa. The floor surface is versatile, transitioning between turf for football and hard surfaces for various exhibitions.
From the exterior near the main entrance gates where the scale of the air-supported dome is most visible.
Check the clear bag policy before arrival, as this is strictly enforced for all public events.
Dress in layers, as the climate control systems in large air-supported domes can vary significantly depending on the outdoor temperature.
Attempting to enter through the athlete or staff designated entrances; use the clearly marked public spectator gates.
Operations are event-dependent; the facility is typically closed to the public except during scheduled athletic competitions, concerts, or university events.
Standard sportsmanship and respectful behavior; no outside food or drink allowed inside.
