The United Center is home to the Chicago Bulls and located on the Near West Side
The United Center sits at 1901 West Madison Street in Chicago, about two miles west of downtown. It is the arena where the Chicago Bulls play their home games during the NBA season, which runs from October through April, with playoff games extending into May or June depending on how far the team advances.
The building opened in 1994 and holds approximately 20,900 people for basketball. It also hosts concerts, wrestling, hockey, and other events throughout the year. If you are planning to attend a Bulls game, the arena's location and basic layout will affect how you get there, where you park, and what to bring.
Key Takeaways
- The United Center is at 1901 West Madison Street on Chicago's Near West Side, accessible by car, CTA train, or bus.
- Game tickets are sold through the official NBA.com ticketing system, resale sites like StubHub and Ticketmaster's resale platform, and sometimes directly at the box office.
- Parking lots surround the arena, but street parking is limited; public transit (the CTA Pink Line stops nearby) is often faster and cheaper.
- The arena has bag policies, prohibited items, and entry procedures that vary by event type, so checking the United Center website before you go saves time at the gate.
- Concessions inside the arena are significantly more expensive than outside food; bringing your own snacks (where allowed) or eating nearby beforehand can reduce costs.
How to buy tickets for Bulls games
Tickets are sold through multiple channels. The official source is NBA.com's ticketing system, where you can see the full schedule, seat maps, and real-time availability. Ticketmaster also sells tickets directly and operates a resale marketplace where people sell tickets they no longer need.
StubHub and SeatGeek are independent resale platforms where individual sellers list tickets. Prices on resale sites fluctuate based on demand — games against popular teams or playoff games cost more, while weekday games against less-popular opponents often cost less. The United Center box office (located at the arena) sells remaining tickets on game day, though selection is usually limited by that point.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on seat location, opponent, and day of the week. Lower bowl seats (closer to the court) cost more than upper bowl seats. Weekend games and games against teams like the Los Angeles Lakers or Boston Celtics draw higher prices than Tuesday or Wednesday games against smaller-market teams.
Getting to the United Center by car, transit, or rideshare
By car, the arena is accessible from the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) and the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290). Multiple parking lots surround the building, operated by different companies. Parking typically costs between $15 and $25 depending on the lot and how far in advance you reserve. Arrive early on game nights, as lots fill quickly.
The CTA Pink Line train stops at the Polk Street station, about a 10-minute walk from the arena. This is often faster and cheaper than driving and parking, especially if you are coming from downtown or the Loop. Buses also serve the area; check the CTA website for routes that stop near Madison Street.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at the United Center, but surge pricing is common on game nights. If you use rideshare, plan to pay premium rates and allow extra time for pickup after the game ends, when demand is highest.
What you can and cannot bring into the arena
The United Center prohibits outside food and beverages, including alcohol. You cannot bring bags larger than a small clutch or crossbody purse (the exact size limit is listed on the arena website). Professional cameras with detachable lenses are not allowed; phones and small point-and-shoot cameras are permitted.
Weapons of any kind — including pocket knives, pepper spray, and firearms — are prohibited. Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia are not allowed. The arena also bans selfie sticks, laser pointers, and air horns. A full list of prohibited items is published on the United Center website before each event.
Security staff check bags at the entrance. Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before tipoff to allow time for entry screening, especially on busy game nights. If you are unsure whether an item is allowed, contact the arena directly or check the event page on the United Center website.
Seating sections and sight lines at the United Center
The arena is divided into lower bowl (sections 101–124) and upper bowl (sections 201–224) seating. Lower bowl seats are closer to the court and offer better views but cost significantly more. Upper bowl seats are farther away but still provide a clear view of the game from most sections.
Corner sections (101–103, 121–124, 201–203, 221–224) offer good angles of the court. Baseline sections (104–108, 116–120, 204–208, 216–220) are directly behind the baskets. Sideline sections (109–115, 209–215) run along the length of the court. Seat maps on Ticketmaster and NBA.com show the exact view from each section before you buy.
Obstructed view seats (where a pillar or overhang blocks part of the court) are cheaper but not recommended unless you are on a tight budget. The United Center website clearly labels these seats when you are shopping for tickets.
Food, drinks, and concessions inside the arena
Concessions at the United Center include hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Prices are significantly higher than outside restaurants — a hot dog and drink combo typically costs $20 to $30. Beer and wine are sold at designated concession stands throughout the arena.
The arena has multiple concession locations on both the lower and upper bowl levels. Lines are longest during the first quarter and at halftime, so buying food before the game starts or during the second quarter can reduce wait times. Some sections have dedicated concession stands nearby, while others require walking to a central location.
If you want to reduce concession costs, eat a meal before arriving at the arena or grab food from a nearby restaurant. The area around the United Center has several options within walking distance, including restaurants on Randolph Street and Madison Street.
Accessibility and accommodations at the United Center
The United Center has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout both the lower and upper bowls. Accessible parking is available in designated lots near the main entrances. Service animals are allowed in the arena; emotional support animals are not permitted unless they are certified service animals.
The arena offers assisted listening devices for people with hearing loss. Companion seating is available for people who need someone to sit with them. If you require specific accommodations, contact the United Center's accessibility office before the game to arrange services.
The arena has family restrooms and nursing rooms for parents with infants. Elevators and ramps provide access to all seating levels. The United Center website lists detailed accessibility information, or you can call the box office to discuss your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food or drinks into the United Center?
No. Outside food and beverages, including alcohol, are prohibited. You must purchase all food and drinks from concessions inside the arena. The only exception is water in a clear, empty bottle, which you can fill at water fountains inside the building.
What time should I arrive before a Bulls game?
Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before tipoff. This gives you time to park (or use transit), walk to the entrance, pass through security screening, and find your seat. On busy nights or for playoff games, arriving even earlier is wise.
Is the Pink Line the best way to get to the United Center?
The Pink Line is a good option if you are coming from downtown or the Loop, as it stops at Polk Street, about a 10-minute walk away. If you are coming from the north or south side, driving or a different CTA line might be faster. Check the CTA website for the best route from your location.
Can I take photos or videos during a Bulls game?
You can take photos and videos on your phone for personal use. Professional cameras with detachable lenses are not allowed. Some games have blackout restrictions on live streaming, so check the event details before recording.
What happens if I arrive late to a game?
You can enter the arena at any point during the game, but you will pass through security screening. Concessions and restrooms may have longer lines during the first quarter and halftime. Your seat will be held for you regardless of when you arrive.