It was built in 1960 in partnership with philanthropist and industrialist Louis Carlisle Walker at a cost of $2 million, and on October 27, 1960, was formally gifted to the City of Muskegon.

It is currently home to the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League, Muskegon Risers SC of Major Arena Soccer League 2, and the West Michigan Ironmen indoor football team.

[3] The arena was built on a site of a former supermarket, and in addition to sports is also used for concerts, trade shows, conventions and other events.

The most recent renovation includes the addition of Rad Dads restaurant on the building's east side.

Carlisle's will offer high end stadium food in a sports-themed atmosphere.