Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL GUEST SERVICES INFORMATION

The United Center, home to the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls, is the largest arena in the United States. Construction began in April of 1992, with the ribbon cutting ceremony being held on August 18, 1994.

The arena is located at:
1901 W. Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 455-4500

Getting Here

The United Center offers multiple options for parking and arriving to the arena. Find directions, parking prices and locations, and additional information on our website here.

Bag Policy

Guests are able to enter the arena with a small purse or personal bag up to 10x6x2. No backpacks or other bags are allowed. Exceptions for guests with required medical equipment will be provided. Bag check is available in United Center Parking Lot J on Wood St. and Monroe St.

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Signage Policy

Banners and signs up to 8.5 x 11 are permitted inside United Center. No signs or banners with poles, sticks or offensive/vulgar language are allowed in the arena. Signs and banners may not be hung anywhere and should be displayed at appropriate times without impeding the experience of guests. Security may prohibit and confiscate signs that are not event-related, contain indecent or derogatory comments/images or signs otherwise deemed inappropriate. This is subject to change at any time based on a specific request from the event or promoter.

Cashless Transactions

The United Center is a fully cashless arena, ensuring contactless options for all food, beverage, and merchandise purchases. Though cash will not be accepted, we accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and credit/debit cards.

Accessibility

Accessible Parking

Accessible parking at the United Center is located in Lot G at the southwest corner of the building. Vehicles displaying a current handicapped license plate or window placard are permitted to park in Lot G. Visit our Directions & Parking page for a map and more information.

Accessible Seating

To purchase accessible seating, please call the United Center directly at (312) 455-4657. Please provide as much information as possible when speaking with our representatives so that we can better service your needs and ensure a great experience.

Animals

Only certified service animals or service animals in-training for guests with disabilities are allowed in the arena.

Hearing Assistance

Assistive listening devices (personal headsets) are available at the Guest Relations booths at Gate 2 or 6. A valid photo ID is required for use.

Medical Equipment

Guests with required medical equipment (e.g., breast pumps, insulin, epi-pens, oxygen, incontinence supplies and other medical devices and supplies) may be allowed to carry those items into the arena and will be subject to search. All medical bags in excess of the bag size limit (i.e., 10x6x2) must be at least 2/3 filled with medical supplies. For specific questions regarding medical equipment, please contact United Center Guest Relations at guestrelations@unitedcenter.com or (312) 455-4509.

Sensory Inclusive Certified

United Center is proudly certified as a sensory inclusive venue in Chicago. United Center staff has been trained by medical professionals on recognizing guests with sensory needs and how to properly handle a sensory overload situation.

Additionally, the arena has sensory bags available for guests to check out at Guest Relations Booths located inside Gates 2 and 6 on the 100 level, Section 221 and Section 325. Sensory bags include noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads.

United Center also offers a sensory room, a therapeutic space with a variety of equipment that provide a calming peaceful environment for guests with sensory needs. Guests needing a quiet space can visit the Guest Relations Booth at Gate 2 to request access to the room. The New Sensory Room is located at Gate 2 1/2.

Sign Language Interpreters

A two-week notice is required for providing a certified sign language interpreter free of charge. Please contact the Guest Relations Department at (312) 455-4509 or guestrelations@unitedcenter.com.

Wheelchair Escorts

Wheelchair escorts are available by asking any United Center team member or visiting any Guest Relations booth.

Arena Information

Address

The United Center is located at 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60612.

American Express® Card Member Entry

American Express® Card Members now have the luxury of entering the United Center through the dedicated American Express® Gate. Access through the American Express® Card Member Entrance at the United Center in Chicago, IL is available only to American Express® Card Members. To gain entry to the United Center through the American Express® Card Member Entrance, you must present the guest services representative with a valid American Express® Card along with a valid event ticket.* The American Express® Card Member Entrance will be accessible for designated events at United Center including all Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks home games as well as major sports and entertainment events. Access through this entrance begins once all general doors to the arena open for each event. Doors for Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks games open 90 minutes prior to the event start time, and vary for concerts, family shows and other sports events. Exact opening times can be referenced on a per-event basis at unitedcenter.com. Terms apply. For full details and map, click HERE.

*All active American Express® Card Members are permitted entry to the United Center via the American Express® Card Member Entrance for themselves and all guests in their party, provided all parties are present upon entry and all guests have a valid event ticket.

ATMs

BMO Harris ATMs are located on the 100 Level next to the Team Store at section 117, inside the Box Office lobby (East Atrium), inside the Atrium located in the southeast corner, Lexus Club Level section 221, and on the 300 Level across from section 327.

Cameras

Following is the general camera policy that can be changed based on a specific request from the attraction or promoter:

Sporting Events: Non-flash, still cameras of any type may be used to take pictures of sporting events or events where house lights are illuminated during a performance as long as it does not interfere with other guests view. Any tripod or other photography equipment may not be used or placed in any area of the building without a building issued media credentials. Selfie sticks are not allowed inside the arena. No video recording devices, audio recorders or cameras with detachable lenses are allowed. iPads and GoPros are prohibited at United Center events.

Concerts and Other Events: No professional cameras, video recording devices or audio recorders are allowed. Please contact Guest Relations at (312) 455-4500 for specific event information. iPads and GoPros are prohibited at United Center events.

Cashless Payments

United Center is a fully cashless arena for food, beverage, and merchandise purchases. Though cash will not be accepted, we accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and credit/debit cards.

Charitable Donations

For information on Chicago Bulls charitable donations or to request a donation, please visit bulls.com. For information on Chicago Blackhawks charitable donations or to request a donation, please visit blackhawks.nhl.com.

COVID-19

For more information on COVID-19 as it relates to United Center and its events, please click HERE.

Elevators

Elevators are located next to Gates 3 and 7.

Employment

For open positions at the United Center, or to submit a resume for future consideration, visit our Job Opportunities page.

Escalators

Escalators are located at Gates 2, 3, 6 and 7 and provide access to both the 200 Lexus Club Level and 300 Level.

First Aid

First Aid stations are located on the 100 Level across from section 115 and on the 300 Level across from section 327.

Gate Times

Gates generally open 90 minutes prior to the events and games. Family shows may vary. For a specific gate opening time, please visit the show's event page.

Guest Conduct

The United Center intends to provide all guests with a safe, comfortable, and friendly environment. Our family atmosphere prohibits foul or abusive language, and any violation of these policies may result in ejection. Guests with obscene or indecent clothing or who are seemingly intoxicated will not be granted access into the arena.

Guest Relations

Guest Relations booths are located at the entrance of Gates 2 and 6, the Lexus Club Level at section 221, and on the 300 Level across from section 325.

Merchandise

The Bulls Market/Blackhawks Store is a complete merchandise store located on the 100 Level across from Section 117. Satellite merchandise stands are also located throughout the arena. The Bulls Market/Blackhawks Store is generally only open for Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls games.

The Madhouse Team Store, located in the public atrium, is available for fans during atrium hours daily.

Michael Jordan Statue

The Michael Jordan statue has been returned to its permanent location inside the new United Center atrium and is accessible to the public during the atrium's hours of operation. Hours of operation are as follows:

Atrium Hours
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

NEW! Sensory Room

United Center offers a therapeutic space with a variety of equipment that provide a calming peaceful environment for guest with sensory needs. Guest needing a quiet space can visit the Guest Relations Booth at Gate 2 to request access to the room. The New Sensory Room is located at Gate 2 1/2. For any questions or concerns, please contact guestrelations@unitedcenter.com.

Nursing Room

United Center offers a private, comfortable space for nursing mothers attending events. Mothers interested in using the Nursing Room, located near Section 112/113 (Gate 7), can visit Guest Relations Booth at Gate 6 to request access to the room. The door to the Nursing Room is secured with a keypad and will lock automatically to ensure the privacy of our guests. For any questions or concerns, please contact guestrelations@unitedcenter.com.

Restrooms

Restrooms are located on all levels. Family restrooms are located on the 100 Level in the First Aid room across from Section 115/116, and on the 300 Level at the top of Section 303/304. For a map of restrooms by Level, download the United Center Mobile App.

Re-Entry

Re-entry into the arena is prohibited during all events.

Rooms

Banquet and meeting rooms are available for special events. Contact Levy Restaurants at (312) 455-7412 for information and availability.

Sensory Inclusive Venue

United Center is proudly certified as a sensory inclusive venue in Chicago. United Center staff has been trained by medical professionals on recognizing guests with sensory needs and how to properly handle a sensory overload situation. United Center now offers a therapeutic space with a variety of equipment that provide a calming peaceful environment for guest with sensory needs. Guest needing a quiet space can visit the Guest Relations Booth at Gate 2 to request access to the room. The New Sensory Room is located at Gate 2 1/2.

Additionally, the arena has sensory bags available for guests to check out at Guest Relations Booths located inside Gates 2 and 6 on the 100 level, Section 221 and Section 325. Sensory bags include noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads.

Scoreboard Messages

Scoreboard messages are available during Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks home games, with proceeds going to each teams' respective foundation. For more information, please visit here for the Chicago Blackhawks or here for the Chicago Bulls. Messages are not available during concerts and special events.

Seating

All seating in the arena is assigned; guests should retain their ticket throughout the event and be prepared to show their ticket when entering the specific seating area.

Smoking Policy

Smoking of any type is not permitted anywhere inside the arena or on the United Center campus.

Tours

No Tours until further notice.

Zamboni Rides

For information on Zamboni rides during Chicago Blackhawks games, call (312) 455-7000.

Directions & Parking

Parking

  • Lot A–Fan Parking
  • Lot B–Fan Parking
  • Lot C–Fan Parking
  • Lot E–Uber Zone
  • Lot F–Fan Parking
  • Lot G South–ADA Parking
  • Lot K–Fan Parking
  • Lot D–Fan Parking
  • Lot J–Fan Parking
  • Lot H–Fan Parking

All official United Center parking lots are conveniently located near the arena and can be accessed from Damen Ave., Madison St., Adams St., Warren Blvd., Wood St., Monroe St., and Washington St. For information and directions, visit our Directions and Parking page. Vehicle assistance is available if you parked in an official United Center lot. Please stop by the Security Desk in the East Atrium for assistance including battery jumping.

PLEASE NOTE: Parking lots open to public 2.5 hours prior to event time.

Public Transportation

There are multiple CTA bus and 'L' train stops within walking distance to United Center. For details regarding public transportation options, visit our Directions and Parking page.

Uber Zone

To increase and streamline the fan experience for guests who take Uber to and from the United Center, the new Uber Zone is located at the corner of Madison Street and Wood Street (Lot E) and will combine the three former Uber locations around the arena. Traffic leading to the three prior Uber pickup locations 1) Zone A, previously located on Wood Street & Washington Blvd. near Lot A, 2) Zone D, previously located on Monroe Street & S. Paulina Street near Lot D and 3) Zone F, previously located on Monroe Street & Seeley Ave. near Lot F will now be directed towards the one new Uber Zone in Lot E.

Food & Beverage

Dining Options

The Blackhawks, Bulls, United Center and Levy Restaurants have curated a collection of Chicago’s best dining options accessible to every guest that walks through the gates. We are dedicated to setting new standards for the fan experience with a world-class roster highlighting some of the city’s best loved and exclusive menu items right inside the United Center. Keeping with tradition, longtime fan favorites will continue to be a staple of our dining options. Check out our food and beverage options here.

Outside Food & Beverage

Outside food or beverages are not permitted inside the arena. The United Center is proud to offer gluten-free, kosher, vegetarian and vegan menu items. Visit our Dining & Catering page or download the United Center Mobile App for a listing of special dining locations.

Media Information

Press Inquiries

To request information about a specific event or to request media credentials, please visit our Press Inquiries page.

Ticketing

UPDATE:
Effective Friday, October 4th, the United Center Box Office will no longer open for event public on-sales outside normal business hours*.
Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.
*Exceptions may be made on a show by show basis at the request of the artist, promoter or venue*

United Center Box Office Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 11 AM - 5 PM
Sunday: CLOSED **

**On event days, including Sunday, the Box Office will open at 11 AM and close at the start of the event.**

Children

For Bulls, Blackhawks and Feld Entertainment events, children under 36” do not need a ticket but must remain on the lap of an adult. One child per lap.

For all concerts events, all guests, including children, are required to have a ticket to enter the arena.

For collegiate and any other event, call 312-455-4500 for specific details.

Group Sales

Group sales are available for all events. For non-Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls events, please call (312) 455-7469. For Chicago Blackhawks events, visit blackhawks.nhl.com. For Chicago Bulls events, visit bulls.com.

Lost, Stolen and Counterfeit Tickets

The United Center can only guarantee the validity of event tickets purchased from unitedcenter.com, the United Center Box Office, Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster Outlets, TicketExchange or by calling (800) 745-3000. Fans who obtain tickets from unauthorized dealers or from other fans run the risk of buying lost, stolen or counterfeit tickets which will not be honored for admission, and will not be eligible for any type of refund or exchange.

Mobile Ticketing

You now have the convenience of using your smartphone as your game ticket. You no longer need to bring your physical tickets to the game. Your smartphone is your ticket to the game. This includes season tickets and single game tickets purchased online or forwarded by email through authorized outlets including Chicagoblackhawks.com, Chicagobulls.com, ClickTix, TicketExchange, Ticketmaster.com or other United Center approved outlets. Check out our Mobile Ticketing Guide for step-by-step instructions and FAQs.

Premium Seating

The United Center Premium Seating areas feature 167 Executive Suites on three levels, one area on the Club Suite Level containing (34) Michelob Ultra Club Boxes, 5 Super Suites on the Penthouse Level, and the BMO Club on the Club Suite Level. To inquire about leasing an Executive Suite, Ultra Club Box or seats in the BMO Club, please call (312) 455-4120. To inquire about renting an Executive Suite or Super Suite for a particular event, please call (312) 455-4119.

Purchasing Tickets

Tickets may be purchased in person at the Box Office located in the East Atrium, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, or visiting ticketmaster.com. The United Center Box Office accepts American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa. For details, visit our Box Office Information page.

Will Call

Will Call pickup is located at the Main Box Office located in the East Atrium. A valid photo ID is required when picking up tickets.

Security

Backpacks & Bags

Guests are able to enter the arena with a small purse or personal bag up to 10x6x2. No backpacks or other bags are allowed. Exceptions for guests with required medical equipment will be provided. Additional details are available under Medical Equipment under Accessibility Guide. Bag check is available in United Center Parking Lot J on Wood St. and Monroe St.

Entry Inspections

All guests entering the arena are subject to visual inspection, bag check, and metal detection conducted by United Center security. Guests will be required to walk through metal detectors at all gates. This revised procedure will replace wanding at the entrances.

Lost and Found

If you have lost an item during an event, please visit the nearest Guest Relations booth. Guest Relations booths are located at the entrance of Gates 2 and 6, the Lexus Club Level at Section 221, and on the 300 Level across from Section 325. To inquire about a lost item after an event, please click here. You may also call (312) 455-4504 Monday through Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Please leave a voicemail with the item description, date it was lost, and your contact information. Unclaimed items will be disposed of after 24 hours.

Prohibited Items

Guests of the United Center are prohibited from entering the arena with the following:

  • Air horns or any other artificial noise makers
  • Animals (excluding service animals)
  • Banners, signs or flags
  • Bags
  • Bottles or cans
  • Cameras with detachable lenses
  • Fireworks
  • GoPros
  • iPads
  • Laptops
  • Laser pens or laser products of any type
  • Masks
  • Outside food or beverage of any kind (alcoholic beverages included)
  • Poles or sticks
  • Projectiles
  • Selfie sticks and/or light attachments
  • Umbrellas (any size)
  • Weapons of any kind, including guns, knives, ammunition, explosives, pepper spray and mace.
  • Any other item deemed unacceptable by the United Center. The United Center will not store any of the aforementioned items.
  • PLEASE NOTE: Additional restrictions may be required on certain event days.

Strollers

Strollers must be checked in at any of the Guest Relations booths located at Gates 2 or 6, the Lexus Club Level at section 221, or on the 300 Level across from section 325.

 
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