United Center

The Basics

The best way to experience the United Center is by attending a Chicago Bulls basketball game or Chicago Blackhawks hockey game—book your tickets in advance to save disappointment. The arena is also a top choice for national music tours, and many sightseeing tours of Chicago pass by the arena, as do flightseeing experiences. Outside the arena, don't miss the statues of legends such as Michael Jordan, Bobby Hull, and Stan Mikita.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Purchase tickets for sporting events well in advance, especially for championship games, as they routinely sell out.

• The United Center has a strict no re-entry policy.

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but there is a wide variety of dining options inside.

• Assisted listening devices and sign language interpreters are available free of charge.

• Purchase accessible seating tickets over the phone; wheelchair escorts can be arranged.

• The arena offers guided tours on some non-event days—check the United Center website for details.

How to Get There

The United Center is on Madison Street on Chicago’s West Side and easily accessed by car. Multiple paid parking lots are available. If using public transit, take the CTA Green, Orange, Purple, or Brown lines to Madison station and transfer to the No. 20 Madison bus going west. On game days, the No. 19 United Center Express Bus runs every 10 to 30 minutes along Randolph Street, with connections at Union Station, Millennium Station, and Ogilvie Center.

When to Get There

If you just want to admire the building from the outside, the United Center is a year-round destination in Chicago. However, for a more immersive experience, book tickets to a game of your choice well in advance—schedules differ every year so check the match days before organizing your trip.

Chicago’s West Side

Attending a game or concert at the United Center provides a great reason to explore Chicago's West Side, an area many tourists overlook. While you're in the neighborhood, admire the Beaux Arts architecture of Union Station, check out colorful Mexican murals in Pilsen, or stroll among seasonal flora at the Garfield Park Conservatory.

What is the history of the United Center?

The United Center is one of Chicago’s major sports stadiums and one of the biggest indoor arenas in the country. Opened in 1994 and built to replace the previous Chicago Stadium, it’s now the home stadium for the Chicago Bulls basketball team and the Chicago Blackhawks ice hockey team.

Are there any hotels near the United Center?

Yes, there are several hotels near the United Center. Some of the closest are the Hyatt House Chicago - Medical / University District, the Hotel Chicago West Loop, and the Courtyard Chicago at Medical District/UIC. The arena is located in the Near West Side, and it’s also easily reached from the Loop, Chicago’s downtown.

Can I take a tour of the United Center?

No, unfortunately there are typically no public tours of the United Center. However, fans can drop by when the arena is closed to take photos outside, and to browse the United Center Atrium shop. Otherwise, the only way to access the stadium is when events are held.

What events are held at the United Center?

The United Center primarily hosts Chicago Bulls basketball games and Chicago Blackhawks ice hockey games. However, it is also used to host concerts and other major events. Many international stars have graced its stage, including Janet Jackson, Megan Thee Stallion, Harry Styles, and Justin Timberlake.

Where is the United Center located?

The United Center is located at 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago, 60612. It is situated in the Near West Side, a diverse Chicago neighborhood that also benefits from its proximity to the downtown Loop. Numerous public transit options connect the neighborhoods, making it easy for visitors to reach the stadium.

What food and beverage options are available at the United Center?

There are a wide range of food and beverage options at the United Center, including almost 30 individual concessions. It’s worth trying some Chicago classics while you’re there—head to Giordano’s for deep-dish pizza, Honey Butter Fried Chicken for chicken and biscuits, and Vienna Beef for hot dogs.

Ways to explore

The United Center does not offer behind-the-scenes tours, so the best way to experience it is by attending a Chicago Bulls basketball game or a Blackhawks hockey game—book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. The arena is also a frequent stop on big-name national tours, so check the calendar to catch rock, pop, and hip-hop superstars, comedians, and other performers live. Sightseeing and food tours of Chicago’s west side sometimes pass by, as do flightseeing experiences.

Accessibility

The arena is fully accessible, with dedicated parking and seating for sporting events and concerts.

Age limits

For Bulls and Blackhawks games, children under 36 inches (91 centimeters) can enter without a ticket, but must sit on an adult’s lap. All children must have a ticket to attend concerts and other events.

What to pack

Camera, small binoculars, credit cards (United Center is a cashless venue)

What to wear

Comfortable clothing, layers

Not allowed

Backpacks and large bags, outside food and drink, air horns, tablets and laptops

Amenities

Restrooms, concessions, Wi-Fi, bag lockers, stroller parking

Address

The United Center is on Madison Street on Chicago’s west side, easily accessible by car, with parking just outside the arena. Public transit is also a convenient option.

Driving

From downtown Chicago, take Madison Street west and park in one of the multiple paid lots all around the arena.

Public transportation

Take the blue CTA train line to Damen station, or the green or pink line to Ashland/Lake, each a short walk to the arena. CTA buses 9, 19, 20, 50, and 126 all stop at or near the United Center.

Best times to visit

By far the best time to visit the United Center is to catch a game, or to attend a concert or other performance. Purchase tickets online or at the box office.

Best days to visit

Basketball and hockey games and cultural events are held on both weekdays and weekends, so check the upcoming schedule to plan your visit.

Best months to visit

The United Center hosts basketball and hockey games from October to April, and concerts, comedy shows, and other performances all year round.

Special events

The calendar of events varies each year based on the basketball and hockey schedule and concerts and other performances booked. Check the United Center website for an updated schedule.