America’s Center Convention Complex first opened in 1977 in St. Louis, with its original name “Cervante’s Convention Center.” They hosted their first convention in June of that year and held the grand opening ceremony in July. The initial center took up a four-block area. In 1985, company officials recognized the need to expand to stay competitive for hosting events with other cities and metropolitan areas. In 1993, the facility as a whole was renamed from the Cervantes Convention Center to America’s Center, according to explorestlouis.com.

Officials proposed a domed expansion attached to the east side of the convention center in May 1986. This expansion added 60,000 seats and additional room for exhibitions and meetings. There were also plans for a southern expansion as well, which was approved. This expansion was completed in 1993, adding a 100,000 square foot exhibition area. The expansion was eventually completed in 1995 and became known as the Trans World Dome at America’s Center. These additions to the complex made America’s Center a popular place for conventions and other events, according to explorestlouis.com.

In March of 1999, the Dome hosted the NCAA Midwest Regionals for men’s basketball. The dome also hosted many musicians and bands like the Rolling Stones, U2 and George Strait, according to explorestlouis.com.

More recently, America’s Center underwent a $240 million renovation and expansion, which was called AC Next Gen and was completed in 2024. It added 72,000 square feet of exhibit space, according to hvs.com.

The Regional Convention and Sports Complex Authority Board of Commissioners approved operations to merge with the regional Convention and Visitors Commission in order to solidify into one governing body to ensure the long-term usability of America’s Center on Dec. 3, 2025, according to hvs.com.