Coliseum was constructed after McLennan County voters authorized a bond issue of $1.2 million in the early 1950s.

The complex, livestock barn, ticket booths and several small buildings were constructed, paving was done and fencing enclosed the grounds.

The complex remained home to Bears basketball, and Waco's largest concert venue, until Ferrell Center, was built in 1988.

The Complex now covers 50 acres (200,000 m2) of land containing modernized facilities, 700 stalls, 250 RV hook-ups and parking areas able to accommodate over 3,800 vehicles.

The Extraco Events Center also hosts yearly events such as the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circuses, monster trucks, major concert acts, and has also hosted WWE Monday Night Raw on several occasions.