Resting along the banks of Lake Michigan, the city of Chicago is renowned for its windy streets, signature deep-dish pizza, stellar music scene, amazing sports teams and more. Some landmark features of the city include the Cloud Gate (the Bean) sculpture and Wrigley Field, home to the Chicago Cubs. Another landmark of the city is the United Center, home to Chicago’s NHL and NBA teams. For a deeper dive into event-day tips, dining and seating maps, bookmark the United Center Event Guide. Learn more about this arena’s history and discover the amenities and rules with our United Center guide.
Quick History of the United Center
Following the partnership between the owners of the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) and the Chicago Bulls (NBA) franchises in 1988, plans were made to construct a new arena to house both teams. The arena’s construction began in April 1992 and took two years to complete. With a construction cost of $175 million, the United Center opened in August 1994. According to contemporaneous reporting, the project preserved key acoustic features of the old Chicago Stadium to maintain the stadium’s famed crowd noise, often called “The Roar.” Chicago Tribune coverage of the United Center opening provides independent verification of the construction timeline, cost and efforts to retain the stadium’s acoustic character.
The 960,000-square-foot arena was built to replace the Chicago Stadium, which was demolished in 1995. An aspect of the stadium’s original design that was preserved was “The Roar,” or the noise level from sports fans, especially during hockey games. With angled steel panels surrounding the top floor, the acoustic effect of the stadium was transferred to the new arena.
The arena underwent intermittent renovations between 2009 and 2017, which included the addition of premium seating areas, a panoramic LED screen and the arena’s Atrium. The Atrium opened in 2017, serving as office space and a gathering facility for fans as well as the new location of the famed statue of six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan. The 12-foot-tall statue was commissioned in 1994 and originally stood at the entrance of the United Center; later reporting documents the statue’s relocation to the Atrium during the venue updates. Use local reporting for independent confirmation of the Jordan statue timeline and Atrium relocation Chicago Tribune coverage.
Since opening, the United Center has hosted more than 200 events every year, with upwards of 40 million guests coming to this premiere entertainment venue for sports games, major concerts and more. The United Center has hosted the 1996 Democratic National Convention, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Disney On Ice. Major sporting events held at the arena include various Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournaments, NCAA Basketball Tournaments and the Great Eight Classic. United Center concerts have been put on by artists like U2, Eric Clapton, Dua Lipa and The Rolling Stones as well as Aerosmith and Janet Jackson. Fans planning to catch the Bulls can browse the full schedule and prices on Chicago Bulls tickets.
Where Is the United Center?
The United Center is located at 1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612. The arena is close to major roadways like Highway 290. Situated at the intersection of W Madison St. and S Damen Ave., there are several options for public transportation nearby, including the bus and subway. For upcoming shows and game nights, use the United Center events calendar to plan your route and timing.
United Center Seating Chart
The United Center has an official seating capacity of 23,500, however, this number will change based on the type of event being held. A breakdown of the seating capacity can be seen below.
Seating Capacity by Event
- Concerts (23,500)
- Basketball (20,916), Standing Room Only (SRO) (23,129)
- Ice Hockey (19,717), Standing Room Only (SRO) (~22,428)
While these are the official figures, seating capacity at most games can actually exceed the above. Additionally, in regard to seating capacity, United Center is the largest arena in the NBA and the second-largest arena in the NHL. The arena also contains 3,000 club seats, 167 executive suites and 32 theater boxes, among other premium seating areas. New premium options include Banner Suites and an elevated Banner Level experience near the championship banners, plus club boxes and Super Suites for larger groups.
Parking Near the United Center
The United Center has 11 parking lots, including a parking lot for guests using rideshare services. The parking areas are accessible from Damien Ave., Adams St., Madison St., Warren Blvd., Wood St., Monroe St., and Washington St. Lots A, B, C, D, F, K, J, and H are parking areas reserved for fans, with Lot E as a rideshare lot and Lot G South is reserved for ADA parking. The parking lots in close proximity to the arena are Lots H and K.
United Center parking lots are open to the public 2 1/2 hours before an event. In general, official lots open about two hours before most events, with some family events offering earlier access. Parking is free for certain family shows in all of the arena’s available lots. For guests with electric-powered vehicles, free EV charging stations can be found in Lots H and K. Keep in mind that there is no overnight parking or tailgating allowed at United Center.
Tip: rideshare pickup after events queues in Lot E and can be busy immediately after the buzzer. Some fans walk east on Madison to find a cab or take the #19 bus to the Loop to avoid surge pricing.
Reserved Parking
Parking spaces in Lots A, B, D, E, F, J, L and MXC garage can be reserved ahead of time by using parking apps like SpotHero. Private garages nearby often list event pricing and allow mobile pass entry.
Nearby Parking Garages
- 1722 W Warren Blvd.
- 1730 W Adams St.
- 1656 W Ogden Ave.
- 2146 W Madison St.
- 1608 West Adams St.
Ways of Transportation to the United Center
Chicago Transportation Authority (CTA)
Bus
If you opt to take the bus to get to the arena, #9, 20 or 50 will be your best bet. The #19 United Center Express typically runs event days toward the Loop after the game.
Subway
If you opt to take the subway, the following lines stop at stations close to the United Center:
- Green at Ashland, Damen (In 2024)
- Blue at Illinois Medical District
Ashland/Lake on the Green or Pink lines is also about a 10 to 12 minute walk.
Rideshare
Rideshare dropoff is located at Lot E of the United Center, on the corner of Madison and Wood Street. Guests are encouraged to enter through the East Atrium of the arena. Plan a backup option after the event since surge pricing is common.
What To Bring
Stadium Approved Bag
Visitors to the arena can enter with:
- Small purse or handbag under 10″ x 6″ x 2″ in size
- Backpacks are NOT permitted
- Medical or diaper bags are permitted
All bags are subject to search. Binbox lockers are the approved storage option on site for items that do not meet policy, with an additional bag check location in Parking Lot J.
Cashless Payment
Guests should take note that United Center is a primarily cash-free facility. This creates contactless options for any food, drink or merch purchases made on the premises. Carrying a small amount of cash for tipping or select vendors is still helpful.
Alternate Payment Options
- Apple Pay
- Credit/Debit cards
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
United Center Rules
- All abusive or foul language is NOT allowed
- All guests are subject to bag checks, visual inspections and metal detections
- For Blackhawks, Bulls or Feld Entertainment events, children under 36” don’t require a ticket
- Children must remain in an adult’s lap
- All guests, regardless of age, require a ticket for concerts
- Personal cameras without flash or detachable lens are allowed for sporting and certain events
- No professional camera, recording devices, tripods or audio recorders allowed for concerts and other events
- Guests wearing indecent or obscene clothing or appearing to be intoxicated will NOT gain entry to the arena
- There is no re-entry to the arena for any events
- Smoking (e.g. e-cigarettes, vape, etc.) is not allowed inside the arena or United Center campus
- Strollers must be checked in at a Guest Relations booth, which can be found:
- At Gates 2 or 6
- At the Lexus Club, section 221
- At Level 300, across section 325
For questions on event policies or accessible seating, contact United Center Guest Relations at 312-455-4500 or guestrelations@unitedcenter.com. TTY service is available at 312-455-4519.
Prohibited Items
- Air horns or noise makers
- Animals (Certified service animals are allowed)
- Bags
- Banners/signs/flags
- Bottles or cans
- Cameras w/ detachable lenses
- Fireworks or other explosives
- GoPros
- iPads
- Laptops
- Laser pens, pointers or products of any kind
- Outside food or drinks (including alcohol)
- Poles or sticks
- Projectiles
- Selfie sticks
- Umbrellas
- Weapons
- No guns or ammunition
- No knives
- No pepper spray or mace
- No explosives
- Additional restrictions may be required for specific events
To supplement venue rules with federal guidance, note that under the Americans with Disabilities Act only dogs are recognized as service animals, venue staff may ask only two specific questions when the disability is not obvious, and emotional-support animals are not covered by the ADA; service animals must be permitted in all public areas of the facility. For authoritative federal requirements, see the U.S. Department of Justice guidance on service animals and Title II/III of the ADA (ADA.gov — Requirements for Service Animals & Title II/III Guidance).
Food & Beverage Services at the Arena
United Center has a variety of food and beverage concession stands and restaurants on all three levels. Find fresh and delicious cuisine at concession stands like LQ Chicken Shack, Kosher Stand, Modelo Cantina, Goose Island Pub and more. Many of these concessions also serve or contain options for guests with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, kosher-free, vegetarian and vegan.
Stop by the 1800 Market (Atrium/Sec 106) or the Dashery Markets (Sec 213 & 230) to quickly grab a drink, snack or another product before your event begins. If you’re visiting the arena and want a fine restaurant experience, pass through the East Atrium and follow Gate 4 to check out Queenie’s Supper Club, modeled after modern versions of the classic Midwest supper club. You will also find specialty items across the concourses and in premium spaces, and many stands accept mobile pay.
Accessibility Accommodations
United Center prides itself on being an ADA-inclusive venue that can accommodate all of its guests, no matter their needs. Accommodations include wheelchair-accessible facilities (e.g. restrooms, elevators, concessions stands, etc.), ATMs with braille and assistive listening devices. Sign language interpreters are available free of charge as long as they are requested one to two weeks prior to an event.
The arena also has a Sensory Room, located at Gate 2 1/2 for guests with sensory needs wanting a few moments in a calm environment. The United Center also has sensory bags with items like noise-canceling headphones, weighted lap pads, fidget tools and verbal cue cards. These bags are available to check out at the Guest Relations Booths on Level 100 at Gates 2 and 6 as well as Sections 221 and 325. Elevators near Gates 3 and 7 provide access for guests and companions.
Hotels Near the United Center
The United Center is conveniently located near many dining and entertainment options to help you make a full night of activity. Check out HotelPlanner for exclusive Chicago travel deals. Some great lodgings where you can relax include LondonHouse Chicago Curio Collection by Hilton, Super 8 by Wyndham Merrillville and Super 8 by Wyndham Joliet. Travelers also book in the West Loop and Wicker Park areas for short rides to the arena and easy dining.
Upcoming Events
Explore the different ticket options available for events coming to the United Center this year with TicketSmarter. You can also scan dates and prices directly on the United Center venue page. From sports tournaments to music festivals to theater debuts, take advantage of the city maps and discover other Chicago attractions and events happening close by. Planning a longer stay in the city? Browse our broader City Guides hub for more venue tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a bag?
Yes, but the bag must be smaller than 10″ x 6″ x 2″. Backpacks are not allowed. Medical and diaper bags are permitted. If your bag is too large, Binbox lockers and a check location in Lot J are available. TicketSmarter recommends a small clear clutch to speed entry.
How many people does the United Center hold?
It can hold around 23,500 people for concerts. Basketball capacity is 20,916 and hockey is 19,717, with SRO options increasing totals. You can review event maps on TicketSmarter when you pick seats.
Does the United Center have lockers?
There are approved Binbox lockers for bag storage inside and outside the arena. Availability can vary by event. TicketSmarter suggests arriving early if you plan to check a bag.
Where can I find storage near the United Center?
Limited on-site options are available via Binbox, and Lot J is used for checked items. Confirm availability with Guest Relations on event day. TicketSmarter lists item rules on each event page.
Are laptops allowed?
No, laptops are not allowed. Tablets, tripods and professional cameras are also restricted for many concerts.
Can I bring my camera?
Personal cameras without flash or detachable lenses are okay for sporting events. Concerts and other specified events prohibit camera usage. Check your TicketSmarter event page for performer-specific rules.
How do I find parking options and rideshare pickup for events?
Official lots usually open about two hours before showtime, and the Uber Zone is in Lot E at Madison and Wood. You can prebook nearby garages on SpotHero and review times on the United Center events calendar. TicketSmarter advises leaving a few minutes early or using the #19 bus to avoid surge pricing.
Which public transit lines and bus routes serve the arena?
CTA options include the Blue Line to Illinois Medical District and the Green or Pink lines to Ashland or Damen. Bus routes #9, #20 and #50 stop nearby, and the #19 runs toward the Loop after events. TicketSmarter travelers often combine a short walk with transit to save time.
What are the United Center entry rules and re-entry policy?
All guests pass security screening, and re-entry is not permitted. Bring only what you need and follow the 10″ x 6″ x 2″ bag rule. TicketSmarter lists entry details on each event’s page, so you can plan ahead.
How can I plan accessible accommodations or use the Sensory Room?
Wheelchair-accessible seating is available across price levels with companion seats. Assistive listening devices can be checked out at Guest Relations at Gates 2 and 6 with a valid ID. The Sensory Room is at Gate 2 1/2 and sensory bags are available at Guest Relations. For help, contact Guest Relations at 312-455-4500. TicketSmarter includes ADA seat filters on most maps.
What food and payment options are available inside?
Concessions include local favorites and specialty stands, plus vegetarian and vegan items. The arena primarily accepts cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. TicketSmarter recommends mobile pay for faster lines.
Where can I see upcoming Bulls home games or buy tickets?
Find dates and prices on the official Chicago Bulls tickets page. You can also view all United Center events on the venue page.
