The United Center is home to the Chicago Blackhawks

The United Center is located at 1901 West Madison Street in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood, about three miles west of downtown. The Chicago Blackhawks play their regular season and playoff games there. The arena also hosts the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and other events like concerts and conventions throughout the year.

The building opened in 1994 and holds roughly 19,000 people for hockey games. Parking is available in lots surrounding the arena, though spaces fill quickly on game days. Public transit — the CTA's Pink, Green, and Blue lines — stops near the building and is often faster than driving during evening games.

Key Takeaways

  • The United Center sits at 1901 West Madison Street and is reachable by car, CTA train, or rideshare services.
  • Blackhawks tickets are sold through the team's official website, Ticketmaster, and resale platforms like StubHub and SeatGeek.
  • Arrive at least 90 minutes before puck drop if you plan to park on-site, as lots near the arena reach capacity on busy nights.
  • The arena has bag policies, prohibited items lists, and entry gates that vary by event — check the United Center website before you go.
  • Food, drinks, and merchandise are sold inside the arena at standard venue prices, and you cannot bring outside food or alcohol into the building.

Getting to the United Center by car or rideshare

If you drive, the United Center has several parking lots on the surrounding blocks. Lot pricing varies but typically ranges from $20 to $30 per event. Arrive early on game nights — lots often fill by the second period, and overflow parking may be several blocks away. The address 1901 West Madison Street works in any GPS or mapping app.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at the United Center. Drop-off is on the south side of the building along Madison Street. Pickup after the game can be slow because many people request rides at once, so expect to wait or walk a few blocks to a quieter street. Rideshare prices surge during and when ready after events.

Getting to the United Center by CTA train

The CTA's Pink, Green, and Blue lines all stop at the Polk station, which is about a five-minute walk from the arena's main entrance. The Pink Line runs 24 hours and connects to the Loop, the South Side, and Midway Airport. The Green Line serves the South Side and the Loop. The Blue Line goes to O'Hare Airport and the North Side.

On game nights, the CTA runs extra trains before and after events to handle the crowd. Fares are $2.50 per ride with a Ventra card (the CTA's payment system). If you are coming from outside Chicago, Metra commuter rail also serves the area, though you will need to transfer to a CTA line to reach Polk station.

Where to buy Blackhawks tickets

The official Chicago Blackhawks website (chicagoblackhawks.com) sells tickets directly through their ticketing system. Ticketmaster is the primary reseller and often has the same inventory. Both sites show seat location, price, and any applicable fees before you complete the purchase.

Resale platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats let you buy from other fans who cannot attend. Prices on resale sites fluctuate based on demand — games against rival teams or playoff games cost more than regular season matchups against less popular opponents. Resale tickets are legitimate and will work at the gate, but you should purchase from the platform's official website, not from third-party sellers claiming to have inventory.

What to bring and what is prohibited

The United Center allows small bags, purses, and backpacks that fit within their size limits — typically no larger than 14 inches by 14 inches by 6 inches. Clear bags are permitted and sometimes move through security faster. You cannot bring outside food, alcohol, or beverages into the building. Weapons, fireworks, laser pointers, and recording devices are prohibited.

Check the United Center's official website or your ticket confirmation email for the complete bag policy and prohibited items list before you arrive. Rules can change by event type, and some special events have stricter restrictions. If you are unsure whether an item is allowed, leave it at home or contact the arena directly.

Entry gates and security screening

The United Center has multiple entry gates around the perimeter. Your ticket shows which gate to use, and staff at the gate can direct you if you are unsure. Security screening includes a bag check and a walk-through metal detector. Arrive at least 90 minutes before puck drop to allow time for parking and security lines.

On high-demand nights (playoff games, games against Original Six rivals, holiday games), security lines can be longer. Bringing a clear bag and removing metal items before you reach the detector speeds up the process. Once inside, you can find your seat, purchase food and drinks, and explore the concourse.

Food, drinks, and merchandise inside the arena

The United Center has concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Alcoholic beverages are also available. Prices are typical for a sports venue — expect to pay $15 to $20 for a sandwich or entree and $8 to $12 for a drink. Payment is cash or card.

Official Blackhawks merchandise (jerseys, hats, scarves, pucks) is sold at the team store and at kiosks around the arena. Prices are higher than online retailers. If you want to buy a jersey or other gear before the game, purchasing online and picking it up at the arena or buying it beforehand can save money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a child under 2 years old without a ticket?

Children under 2 typically do not need a ticket if they sit on a parent's lap, but you should confirm this with the Blackhawks or United Center before purchasing. Some events have different policies. Contact the team's box office to be certain.

What time should I arrive on a game night?

Arrive at least 90 minutes before puck drop if you are parking on-site. If you are using the CTA, 60 minutes before puck drop is usually enough. On playoff nights or games against popular opponents, add 30 minutes to account for heavier traffic and longer security lines.

Is there accessible parking for people with disabilities?

Yes, the United Center has accessible parking spaces in nearby lots. You will need a valid disability parking permit or license plate. Reserve accessible parking in advance through the United Center's website or by calling their box office to may support a space is held for you.

Can I leave the arena and come back in during the game?

Re-entry policies vary by event. Some games allow you to leave and return with your ticket, while others do not. Check your ticket confirmation or the United Center website for the specific game's re-entry policy before you arrive.

What happens if the game goes to overtime?

Overtime adds 20 minutes to the game clock (or ends when ready if someone scores). Plan for the possibility that the game will run longer than scheduled. If you are using the CTA, trains run late on game nights, but rideshare prices may be higher if you leave after overtime ends.