What Spectrum Center is and where it sits
Spectrum Center is the home arena of the Charlotte Hornets, the NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The building opened in 2005 and holds roughly 19,000 people for basketball games. It sits in uptown Charlotte, at 333 East Trade Street, a few blocks from the city's main downtown area.
The arena is not just for basketball. It also hosts concerts, other sports events, and conventions throughout the year. But for Hornets fans, it is the place to watch the team play its regular season and playoff games.
Key Takeaways
- Spectrum Center is located at 333 East Trade Street in uptown Charlotte and holds about 19,000 people for Hornets games.
- You can buy tickets directly from the Hornets website, through Ticketmaster, or from resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek.
- Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though prices vary by event and lot; arriving early gives you more options.
- The arena is accessible by car, public transit (the CATS light rail stops nearby), and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.
- Game days typically run from early evening through late night, with doors opening about an hour before tipoff.
How to buy tickets for a Hornets game
The official Charlotte Hornets website sells tickets directly through their ticketing page. You can browse available games, select your seat, and pay online. Prices depend on the opponent, the day of the week, and how close the game is — weekend games and matchups against popular teams cost more than weekday games against less-known opponents.
Ticketmaster is another official channel and often shows the same inventory as the Hornets site. If you prefer to buy from a resale market, StubHub and SeatGeek let you purchase from other fans who are selling their tickets. Resale prices can be higher or lower than face value depending on demand.
Tickets go on sale at different times depending on the game. Season ticket holders get first access, then the general public. For popular games, tickets can sell out weeks in advance. For less popular matchups, you may find tickets available the day of the game.
Getting to Spectrum Center by car and parking
Spectrum Center is in uptown Charlotte, about 10 minutes from the airport and accessible from Interstate 277 and local roads. If you are driving, follow signs for uptown or the arena itself.
Parking is available in several nearby lots and garages. The arena has its own parking deck, but it fills up on busy game nights. Other options include the Hornets Parking Lot (directly adjacent to the arena), nearby street parking, and private lots run by third-party companies. Prices range from about $10 to $25 depending on the lot and the event. Arriving at least 90 minutes before tipoff gives you better selection and shorter walks.
If you want to avoid driving, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Charlotte and can drop you at the arena entrance. This is often cheaper than parking if you are coming from outside uptown.
Using public transit to reach the arena
Charlotte's public transit system is run by CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System). The light rail line, called the Blue Line, has a stop called the Hornets Station that is directly connected to Spectrum Center. If you are staying in a hotel or live near a light rail stop, this is the simplest way to get to a game without worrying about parking.
The Blue Line runs from the airport through downtown Charlotte and into the southern suburbs. Check the CATS website or the MobilePass app to see which stop is closest to where you are starting, and plan your arrival time to account for wait times between trains.
Bus service also runs throughout Charlotte, though the light rail is faster and more direct for getting to the arena.
What to expect on game day
Doors to Spectrum Center typically open about 60 minutes before tipoff. Arriving early gives you time to find your seat, buy food and drinks, and soak in the atmosphere before the game starts. Games usually start at 7:00 p.m. on weeknights and 7:30 p.m. on weekends, though some games start at different times depending on television schedules.
The arena has concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, and drinks. Prices are higher than outside the arena. You can bring a clear bag with personal items, but outside food and drinks are not allowed. The arena has strict bag policies — check the Hornets website before you go to see what is permitted.
Bathrooms and water fountains are located throughout the building. The arena is fully accessible for people with mobility challenges, with elevators, accessible seating, and accessible restrooms.
Accessibility and special accommodations
Spectrum Center has accessible parking spaces in nearby lots and the arena parking deck. Reserved accessible seating is available throughout the building, and you can purchase these seats when you buy your ticket. If you need information, staff members are stationed throughout the arena.
Service animals are allowed in the arena. If you have questions about specific accommodations, contact the Hornets directly through their website or call their main office number — they can answer questions about wheelchair access, companion seating, hearing information, and other needs before you arrive.
What happens after the game
After the final buzzer, crowds exit the arena and head to parking lots, rideshare pickup zones, or the light rail station. If you drove, expect traffic in the parking lots and on surrounding streets for 20 to 30 minutes after the game ends. If you used rideshare, request your ride a few minutes before the game ends so it arrives as you exit.
The light rail station gets busy but moves steadily. Trains run until late evening on game nights to handle the crowd. If you are taking a rideshare or driving, leaving the when ready area and waiting a few minutes before heading to your car can save you time in traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Spectrum Center?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the arena. You can bring a clear bag with personal items like medications, keys, and a phone, but food must be purchased at concession stands inside. Check the Hornets website for the current bag policy before you go.
What is the best way to get to the arena if I do not want to drive?
The CATS Blue Line light rail has a stop called Hornets Station that connects directly to the arena. This is the fastest and cheapest option if you live near a light rail stop. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available and can be cheaper than parking if you are traveling alone or with one other person.
How early should I arrive before a game?
Arriving 90 minutes before tipoff gives you time to park, walk to the arena, find your seat, and buy food without rushing. For very popular games, arriving even earlier can help you avoid parking lot congestion. If you are using the light rail, arriving 45 minutes early is usually enough.
Are there parking spots for people with disabilities?
Yes. Accessible parking spaces are available in the arena parking deck and nearby lots. You will need a valid disability parking permit or license plate. Reserve accessible seating when you purchase your ticket, and staff can direct you to the closest accessible parking.
What time do Hornets games usually start?
Most games start at 7:00 p.m. on weeknights and 7:30 p.m. on weekends, but some games start at different times for television broadcasts. Check the Hornets schedule on their website to confirm the start time for the specific game you plan to attend.