Chicago’s United Center, often called “The Madhouse on Madison,” is home to the Chicago Blackhawks of the NHL’s Western Conference Central Division and the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. The privately financed arena opened in 1994 across Madison Street from the old Chicago Stadium. It has also hosted major concerts, professional wrestling, college sports, and the 1996 and 2024 Democratic National Conventions.
The Chicago Blackhawks were founded in 1926 as part of the NHL’s Original Six. Since then, they have won six Stanley Cups, the first coming in the 1933-34 season and the latest in 2014-15. The team left Chicago Stadium after 65 seasons and moved into the United Center in 1994.
How many seats are in United Center
The United Center accommodates more than 19,000 fans for hockey. The exact total changes with standing-room areas and event configuration. Seating is arranged across the 100, 200, and 300 levels, with suites and premium spaces between and above the main seating levels.
Be sure to check out the food at United Center!
Directions – How to get to United Center
The United Center is at 1901 West Madison Street, west of the Chicago Loop. Drivers can approach from I-90/94, I-290, or I-55 and should follow the arena’s event directions to Madison Street or Damen Avenue.
For public transportation, the Damen station on the CTA Green Line is two blocks north and one block west of the arena. The Ashland station on the Green and Pink lines is also within walking distance. CTA buses serving the area include the #20 Madison and event-day #19 United Center Express.
Where to Park Near the United Center?
United Center lots surround the arena and can be reached from Damen Avenue, Madison Street, Adams Street, Warren Boulevard, Wood Street, Monroe Street, and Washington Street. Lots generally open 2.5 hours before an event. Lot C includes accessible parking, and the rideshare zone is in Lot E at Madison and Wood.
What is near the United Center?
The Michael Jordan statue is in the United Center Atrium, and statues honoring Blackhawks greats Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita stand outside the arena. The West Loop’s restaurant district is east of the building, while Fifth Third Arena, the Blackhawks’ community rink and practice facility, is just south of the main arena.
Other United Center FAQs
What hockey teams play at the United Center?
The Chicago Blackhawks play their home games at the United Center. The Chicago Bulls also call the arena home.
Can I bring a bag into the United Center?
Small purses and personal bags up to 10 by 6 by 2 inches are allowed. Backpacks and larger bags are prohibited, with exceptions for required medical equipment. All permitted bags are screened.
Is the United Center cashless?
Yes. Food, beverage, and merchandise purchases are cashless. The arena accepts credit and debit cards along with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Sources
Fact-checked August 9, 2026.