United Center
“The Madhouse on Madison”
NHL

United Center

Chicago Blackhawks

1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612

A Guide to the United Center

As the legendary home of both the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls, the United Center stands as the premier heartbeat of Chicago sports and entertainment. The arena continues to blend its rich championship heritage with modern innovations, offering an electric atmosphere that remains one of the most iconic experiences in professional sports.

Getting to the Arena

  • Public Transit
    • CTA Buses
      Routes 19 and 20 run directly to the arena. The Pink and Green Line stops at Ashland are roughly a 15 minute walk.
    • Train Lines
      The Damen Green Line station is the primary and closest L stop for the arena. The Ashland stop remains the best option for the Pink Line, but Green Line riders should use the Damen station. The Blue Line is a 10 minute walk south of the arena via the Damen Avenue exit.
  • Driving & Parking
    Take I-90 East to the Madison St. exit, make a right onto Madison, and the arena will be on your left. From the South: Take I-55 North to the Damen exit, make a left, and drive northbound for about 7 minutes. The arena will be on your right. From the East: Take Madison St. directly west from the Loop.From the West: Take I-290 East to the Damen Ave. exit (Exit 28A). Take Damen north to Madison St., turn right, and the arena will be on your rightStreet parking in the neighborhood is limited on game nights. The arena lots Gates 2, 4, & 6 open 2.5 hours before puck drop.
  • Rideshare
    The United Center has consolidated its rideshare operations into a single Uber Zone located at Lot E, on the corner of Madison Street and Wood Street. Fans at this drop-off enter through the East Atrium.
    • Uber Shuttle
      Flat fare bus service after games to locations like Union Station, Oglivie Transportation Center, Michigan Avenue and Old Town.

Pregame Festivities

The blocks around the United Center and stretching east toward the West Loop are packed with options. West Madison, Randolph Street, and the surrounding neighborhoods give you everything from divey hockey bars to upscale dining.

Bars & Restaurants

  • The outpost of the legendary Chicago burger-and-beer joint. Well priced, loud, and perfect before a game.
  • Bi-level gastropub with a ton of brews on tap. Huge beer garden with sausages and communal tables. A short walk east of the arena.
  • An authentic hockey bar near United Center decked out in sweaters and memorabilia.
  • A laid-back neighborhood spot close to the arena for a quick pregame pint.
  • Intimate, laid back lounge showcasing emerging underground rock acts and serving an upscale bar menu.
  • A Greek town institution on Halsted Street. Saganaki flamed tableside and lamb chops before the game.
  • Fulton Market smokehouse with brisket, pulled pork, and whiskey cocktails.
  • A casual and quick counter-service spot near the arena for sandwiches and salads.
  • A Chicago classic for dogs and Italian beef within walking distance of the United Center.

Neighborhood Attractions

  • The Restaurant Row of the West Loop is excellent for pre or post-game explorations within a short ride of the arena
  • Situated approximately 3 miles east of the United Center, this iconic skyscraper offers the famous Skydeck Ledge.
  • Home to the "Bean" (Cloud Gate) and Crown Fountain, this landmark is roughly 3.1 miles east of the arena.
  • Located in Grant Park near Millennium Park, this world-renowned museum is approximately 3.6 miles east of the United Center.
  • This scenic waterfront walkway offers dining, boat tours, and entertainment, located approximately 3.6 to 4 miles northeast of the arena.

Monuments & Unique Features

  • Michael Jordan Statue
    The Michael Jordan statue stands outside the east atrium shared with the Bulls, it's the most photographed landmark at the United Center and a must-see even for hockey fans.
  • Players Statues
    • Bobby Hull
    • Stan Mikita
    • Toews and Kane
  • Hall of Fame
    The Blackhawks Hall of Fame exhibit inside the main concourse showcases trophies, vintage sweaters, and championship memorabilia.
  • Banners
    Championship banners from 1934, 1938. 1961, 2010, 2013 and 2015 hang in the rafters alongside retired numbers.
  • Retired Jerseys
    • #7 Chris Chelios
    • #1 Glen Hall
    • #3 Pierre Pilote
    • #3 Keith Magnuson
    • #7 Chris Chelios
    • #9 Bobby Hull
    • #18 Denis Savard
    • #21 Stan Mikita
    • #35 Tony Esposito
    • #81 Marion Hossa

Seating & Special Sections

  • Lower Bowl
    The 100 level wraps tight around the ice and offers some of the best sight lines in the NHL. Sections 101–120 are prime.
  • Upper Bowl
    The 300 level is steep but puts you right on top of the action with excellent views; rows 1–5 are ideal.
  • Club Seats
    Club seats in the 200 level come with access to the Stadium Club restaurant and lounge areas.
  • Lexus Club
    The United Center's Lexus Club behind one goal offers an upscale all-inclusive experience
  • Standing Room
    Standing-room areas on the concourse behind sections 301–329 are available on select sold-out nights.
  • BMO Club
    Located on the executive suite level. The most exclusive all inclusive spaces with a private floor to ceiling view of the floor.

Concessions

  • Signature Items
    Classic Chicago dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and deep-dish pizza slices are staples throughout the concourse.
  • Rocky's Bar
    Premium cocktail destination on the main concourse.
  • Giordano's Pizza
    Serves pan-style pizza at multiple stands throughout the 100,200 and 300 levels.
  • Beer Stands
    The craft beer selection has expanded significantly. Look for Revolution, Goose Island, and Half Acre. Blackhawks Pale Ale.
  • Lillie's Q
    Best BBQ nachos and loaded fries are popular at the dedicated nacho stands on the 100 and 300 levels.
  • BMO & Michelob Ultra Club
    Higher-end options in the 200-level club include shaved prime rib sandwiches and Philly cheese sliders.

Arena Information

Capacity
19,717
Avg Attendance
18,949
Opened
1994
Last Renovated
2017
Architect
Populous and W.E. Simpson Company
Construction Cost
$175 million

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