The United Center in Chicago, Illinois is home to the Chicago Bulls NBA basketball team and the Chicago Blackhawks NHL hockey team. Knowing what time the doors open for an event at the United Center is important so fans can plan their arrival accordingly.
Doors Open Times for Chicago Bulls Games
For Chicago Bulls home games at the United Center, doors typically open 1 hour before tip-off. This means fans can enter the arena 1 hour before the scheduled start time of the game. Here are some examples for Bulls games:
- If tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 pm, doors will open at 6:00 pm
- If tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 pm, doors will open at 6:30 pm
- If tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 pm, doors will open at 7:00 pm
The United Center recommends fans arrive at least 30 minutes before doors open to allow enough time to pass through security screening outside the entrances. Earlier arrival is suggested for sold out games or games against marquee opponents like the Cleveland Cavaliers featuring Lebron James or the Golden State Warriors featuring Steph Curry.
Opening Doors for Weeknight vs Weekend Games
There is no difference in doors open time for Bulls games played on weeknights (Monday-Thursday) versus weekends (Friday-Sunday). Doors still open 1 hour before tip-off regardless of what day of the week the game falls on.
Opening Doors for Preseason vs Regular Season
The doors open timing is the same for preseason and regular season Bulls games. Doors open 1 hour before tip-off for both preseason contests and regular season contests.
Doors Open Times for Chicago Blackhawks Games
Here are the doors open times for Chicago Blackhawks home games at the United Center:
- For games with a 7:30 pm scheduled puck drop, doors open at 6:00 pm
- For games with a 8:00 pm scheduled puck drop, doors open at 6:30 pm
Similar to Bulls games, the United Center suggests arriving 30 minutes before doors open time for Blackhawks games. This ensures enough time to pass through security screening outside the entrances.
Opening Doors for Weeknight vs Weekend Games
There is no difference in the doors open times for Blackhawks games on weeknights compared to weekends. The doors open 90 minutes before the scheduled puck drop regardless of whether it is a Tuesday night game or a Saturday night game.
Opening Doors for Preseason vs Regular Season
Doors open at the same times before both preseason and regular season Blackhawks games. The 90 minutes before puck drop policy applies to preseason contests the same as regular season contests.
Doors Open for Other Events
In addition to housing the Bulls and Blackhawks, the Unites Center also hosts many other entertainment events like concerts, comedy shows, and more. The doors open timing can vary for non-sporting events at the arena.
Concerts
For major concerts at the United Center, doors typically open 90 minutes before the scheduled start time printed on the ticket. This allows concertgoers ample time to enter and find their seats. Bigger performers may draw larger crowds, so arriving early is recommended.
Comedy Shows
For comedy shows, doors tend to open 60-90 minutes prior to showtime. This gives attendees time to file in and find seating before the comedians take the stage.
Family Shows
Doors open 30-60 minutes before showtime for most family oriented shows, such as Disney on Ice, circus performances, and children’s productions. This provides families enough time to enter and get settled.
Other Events
For other non-sporting events like wrestling, mixed martial arts fights, monster truck rallies, motocross events, and more, doors typically open 60-90 minutes before the start time printed on tickets. Check the United Center website for specific door times for unique events.
Entering the United Center
All guests entering the United Center need to pass through security screening outside the entrances. Only small clutches and wallets are permitted inside after being X-rayed. Bags larger than 14” x 14” x 6” are prohibited. All guests are subject to metal detector screening. The United Center enforces their security policy to ensure fan safety.
After clearing security, fans need to scan their ticket at the gate to gain entry. Printed tickets, mobile tickets, and wristbands are accepted. Your ticket will be scanned and verified before proceeding to your seating section inside. Separate gates are designated for entering different parts of the arena.
Tips for Entering Efficiently
- Have your ticket ready in hand as you approach the gate to allow quick scanning
- Make sure your mobile ticket barcode is clearly displayed if using your phone
- Verify you are entering the correct gate for your seating section
- Be patient as security thoroughly screens all guests prior to arena entry
Finding Your Seats
The United Center has over 20,000 seats configured in two levels for NBA basketball and NHL hockey games. The 100 level contains lower bowl seating while the 300 level houses upper deck seating.
Finding your exact seat location can be challenging in such a large venue. Here are some tips to locate your seats smoothly:
- Check your ticket for the section, row, and seat numbers
- Look for section signs displayed around the inner concourse
- Ask friendly United Center staff for guidance
- Utilize arena maps posted throughout the concourses
- The lower your row number, the closer you are to floor level
Ushers positioned in each seating section can further assist with finding seat locations inside the arena bowl. Enjoy taking in the bright lights and action on the hardwood or ice from up close in your United Center seats!
Getting Through Security Quickly
Lengthy security lines can form outside the United Center entrances, especially prior to major events like big name concert performances. Here are some tips for navigating security swiftly:
- Only carry permitted items – this avoids having to return prohibited items to your vehicle
- Wear easily removable shoes – this allows quickly passing through metal detectors
- Have your mobile ticket ready to scan – avoids fumbling through pockets or bags
- Arrive early – this provides more time to clear security before doors open
- Come prepared for screening – have permitted items separate for security to inspect
Passing through security quickly maximizes the amount of time you have inside the arena to grab food, purchase merchandise, and find your seat before the event starts.
Purchasing Food & Drinks
The United Center offers an array of food and beverage options to enjoy during events. Here are the different locations to buy refreshments inside the arena:
- Main Concourse concession stands – Traditional stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and more
- Portable concession hawkers – Roaming vendors selling popcorn, cotton candy, and other snacks in seating areas
- The Atrium Club – Full service restaurant open to all ticket holders
- Suite Level Lounges – Bars and eateries on the Suite Level for upper bowl ticket holders
- Student Rush Zone – Discount hot dog and soda specials for students
The United Center now features “express pickup” for mobile concessions orders. Fans order food and drinks on the arena app and receive an alert when the order is ready to quickly grab at a designated express lane. Payment is made fully through the app for expedited service.
Best Food Choices
While the United Center serves standard stadium cuisine, some of the more popular food items include:
- Chicago-style hot dog – A classic loaded dog with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickle, and sport peppers
- Deep dish pizza – Chicago’s famous thick crust pizza, perfect for sharing
- Italian beef sandwich – Tender roast beef soaked in au jus on a French roll
- Chicken tenders and fries – Crispy breaded chicken tenders with hot, salty fries
- Nachos – Fresh fried tortilla chips piled with cheese, salsa, beans, and other fixings
Best Drink Choices
Quench your thirst during the action with these drink options:
- Soft drinks – Coca-cola products like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and Powerade
- Bottled water – Aquafina and Dasani brands
- Beer – Local Chicago craft beers like Goose Island plus Budweiser/Bud Light
- Wine – Installations around the arena serve beer as well as wine
- Cocktails – Mixed drinks like margaritas, vodka lemonade, rum and coke, etc
Getting United Center Souvenirs
Capture memories from your United Center experience by grabbing souvenirs at these locations inside the arena:
- Madhouse Team Store – Jerseys, apparel, hats, novelties for both the Bulls and Blackhawks
- Team store outlets – Merch booths with select apparel and items throughout concourses
- Program stands – Purchase game programs, yearbooks, and magazines
- Game-used stores – Items authenticated as used in play by Bulls/Blackhawks players
The Madhouse Team Store offers the largest selection of merchandise. You can find specialty jerseys, custom player tees, sweatshirts, jackets, pennants, posters, hats, souvenir cups, and more for every fan’s taste.
Top Souvenirs
Here are five great souvenir ideas to commemorate your United Center visit:
- Replica Bulls or Blackhawks jersey with your favorite player’s name and number
- Hat or knit beanie sporting team logos
- Collections of vinyl figurines or bobbleheads of top players
- Photobook chronicling the team’s championship history and highlights
- Personlized t-shirt with your name and favorite number/player
Best Places to Eat Near United Center
In addition to the arena food options, there are many excellent dining choices close by the United Center. Here are some top restaurant recommendations within walking distance:
West Madison Street
- palace Grill – American fare in an old-school tavern setting
- Sweetwater Tavern – Burgers, wings, beer with plenty TVs for watching sports
- Park Tavern – Casual neighborhood joint with pub grub
North Western Avenue
- Lazy Bird – Chicken & waffles, cocktails in hip, modernindustrial digs
- Lucy’s – Asian fusion using fresh, locally sourced ingredients
- Haywood Tavern – Gastropub with creative takes on classic bar food
West Monroe Street
- Rosebud – Old school Italian steakhouse focused on quality
- Parkway Tavern – Straightforward pub food from nachos to fish & chips
- Miller’s Pub – Comforting, hearty American dishes in a casual setting
Getting to United Center by Public Transportation
Public transportation via Chicago mass transit is an easy way to get to events at the United Center. Here are some options:
CTA Train
Take the CTA Green, Pink, or Blue lines to Ashland/Lake station. From here, the United Center is an approximately 10 minute walk west down Madison Street.
CTA Bus
These buses stop near the United Center:
- 19 United Center Express bus – Directly serves United Center before and after events
- 9 Ashland bus – Runs north/south with stop at Adams & Ashland
- X28 Stony Island Express – Fast bus from downtown with stop at Damen & Madison
Metra Train
The Metra Milwaukee District West line stops at the Western Ave station, about 1 mile east of United Center.
Getting to United Center by Car
Driving and parking at the United Center is another possibility for getting to events. Here are some tips:
- Take I-90 or I-94 to Exit 51B toward Jackson Blvd
- Follow posted signage directing toward United Center parking lots
- Pre-purchase parking online for guaranteed entry and discounted rates
- Arrive early as lots fill up quickly, especially for sold out events
- Consider using rideshare apps or taking a taxi as drop off/pickup
Parking rates range from $25-$50 for Bulls/Blackhawks games based on proximity. Concerts and other events are typically $20-$40. Parking lots open 2 hours before arena doors.
Accessibility at United Center
The United Center provides resources and accommodations for guests with accessibility needs:
- Designated accessible parking spaces near arena entrances
- Wheelchair lifts, ramps, and doors facilitating entry and exit
- Elevators to access all levels of arena
- Accessible restrooms equipped with assist rails
- Wheelchair and companion seating integrated throughout arena
- Assistive listening devices available
Notify parking attendants or guest services staff for any assistance required. Service animals are permitted and must remain leashed. Review the venue’s full accessibility policy for complete details.
Summary
Attending an event at the iconic United Center in Chicago is an unforgettable experience. Knowing when doors open, where to enter, how to quickly get through security, where to find your seats, what food and souvenirs to buy, and how to get there via CTA or parking makes for a smooth, enjoyable time. With accessible options, the United Center hosts world-class entertainment for every type of fan.