United Center Parking Tips: The Ultimate Parking Guide in Chicago

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If you plan to visit the United Center for a Chicago Blackhawks game, concert, or any other event, you must ensure your parking situation is sorted out. We’ve created this comprehensive guide to parking at the United Center.

This guide provides United Center parking tips, including:

  • official lots
  • cheaper third-party parking options
  • free city parking nearby
  • handicap parking near United Center
  • public transportation
  • specific tips that are unique to the United Center

We’ll make it easy to find a good parking space in Chicago for the next Blackhawks game or concert at United Center.

United Center Parking Summary

United Center is accessible via Chicago’s CTA buses and trains, making it relatively convenient for fans to reach the venue without relying on parking. Fans can pre-book parking spaces through the official United Center website or SpotHero apps, which helps alleviate stress on event days.

Parking capacity around United Center is moderate, with official lots and some private lots in the surrounding area. Parking prices can vary, with some options being more affordable than others. The parking facilities around United Center include a mix of surface and private lots.

Sreet parking in the area surrounding United Center can be difficult to find and is often subject to various restrictions, making it less convenient for fans attending events at the arena.

Ratings

Parking Capacity

Pricing

Public Transportation Accessibility

Street Parking

Parking Facilities

Traffic Congestion

Special Accomodations

Overall United Center Parking Rating

United Center Parking Overview

The United Center, home to the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, is a bustling hub for sports, concerts, and other events. With so many people converging on the area, finding the perfect parking spot can be challenging.

Luckily, there are various parking options, including official United Center parking lots, third-party options, public transit, and even free parking.

Before we show you that, here is an overview map of the area around the United Center.

united center parking tips overview

Official United Center Parking Options

The Closest Official On-Site Parking Garages and Lots for United Center

The United Center offers at least 10 official parking lots and garages, providing reserved and general parking options.

The three official parking lots closest to the United Center are lots C (to the north), H (to the east), and K (to the south). If you park in these lots, you will be less than one block away from the stadium.

My personal favorite parking spots are in lot L, south of the United Center. This area is a bit further away but gives you quick access to Jackson Street after the game.

Certain tickets, such as an executive suite holder, include two complimentary parking passes to park in an official lot. These lots open up two and a half hours before each event.

Check out the full United Center parking map below:

official united center parking lots tips

Third-Party Parking Options Near United Center

Best Independent Parking Garages and Lots Near United Center

If you prefer to park off-site, several third-party parking options near the United Center are listed on SpotHero.

SpotHero is an online service that allows you to reserve parking spots in advance at various locations near the United Center. Use the widget below to purchase a SpotHero parking pass and secure your spot beforehand.

A few of my favorite SpotHero parking spots near the United Center are:

  1. 1724 W Washington Blvd Lot – This lot is gated and less than 0.5 miles from the stadium. There is on-site security, but getting in and out is all touchless, and the facility is open 24/7. The parking spots are quite small, but this is a great option if you drive a car.
  2. Fulton West Building – Locate 1 mile northeast of the stadium, this large commercial building offers covered parking during games and events.

If you purchase parking at an unofficial lot in the area, a lot of these lots have extra features, like overnight parking, RV parking, and special long-term rates.

United Center Events

Browse all of the sports and concerts at the United Center coming up in the table below and buy your tickets now!

DateNameLocationBuy Tickets
June 10, 2023The CureUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 17, 2023AEW CollisionUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 19, 2023TRI.BE VIDA LOCA 2023 USA TOUR [Chicago]North Shore Center for the Performing Arts
Skokie, IL, US
TicketwebStubHub
June 23, 2023Stevie NicksUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 25, 2023BIG3United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 28, 2023Twice 5th World Tour 'Ready To Be'United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 29, 2023Twice 5th World Tour 'Ready To Be'United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
June 30, 2023Anita Baker - The SongstressUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 01, 2023Erykah Badu: Unfollow Me Tour with Yasiin BeyUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 05, 2023Drake: It's All A Blur TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 06, 2023Drake: It's All A Blur TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 13, 2023Windy City SmokeoutUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
VenueStubHub
July 13, 2023Windy City SmokeoutUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 14, 2023Windy City SmokeoutUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 15, 2023Windy City SmokeoutUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 15, 2023Aleks Syntek - 3D ECADAS TOUR USA with special guest Fehr RivasHouse of Blues Chicago
Chicago, IL, US
Live NationStubHub
July 16, 2023Windy City SmokeoutUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 18, 2023ALICIA - KEYS TO THE SUMMER TOURUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 28, 2023Thomas Rhett: Home Team Tour 23United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 05, 2023Lionel Richie And Earth, Wind & Fire - Sing A Song All Night LongUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 09, 2023Madonna - The Celebration TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 10, 2023Madonna - The Celebration TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 11, 2023Lil Durk - Sorry For The Drought TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 12, 2023WGCI Summer Jam with Lil Durk, Kodak Black, NLE Choppa, DD OsamaUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 13, 2023LL COOL J: The F.O.R.C.E. LiveUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 15, 2023Sam Smith: GLORIA the tourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 19, 2023Chance The Rapper: Acid Rap 10 Year Anniversary ShowUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 24, 2023Lil Baby - It's Only Us TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 27, 2023Arctic MonkeysUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 01, 2023ARC Music FestivalUnion Park
Chicago, IL, US
VenueStubHub
September 05, 2023Pearl JamUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 07, 2023Pearl JamUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 13, 2023Kany Garcia USA Tour 2023House of Blues Chicago
Chicago, IL, US
Live NationStubHub
September 15, 2023Aerosmith: PEACE OUT The Farewell Tour with The Black CrowesUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 16, 202350 Cent: The Final Lap TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 29, 2023Test Event-Do Not Purchase 106710042 - United CenterHilton Chicago
Chicago, IL, US
VenueStubHub
September 30, 2023Peter Gabriel: i/o - The TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 01, 2023MANÁ: México Lindo y QueridoUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 08, 2023Wu-Tang Clan - HiNOTE Personalized Video Message (TICKET NOT INCLUDED)United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 08, 2023Wu-Tang Clan & Nas: NY State Of Mind TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 08, 2023De La Soul - HiNOTE Personalized Video Message (TICKET NOT INCLUDED)United Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 10, 2023SZA - SOS TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 18, 2023John Mayer - SOLOUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 26, 2023Gabriel Iglesias: Don't Worry Be FluffyUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 27, 2023Siddhartha - US TOUR 2023Copernicus Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 30, 2023Queen + Adam Lambert - The Rhapsody TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 31, 2023Queen + Adam Lambert - The Rhapsody TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
November 13, 2023Depeche Mode: Memento Mori TourUnited Center
Chicago, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub

Public Transit and Alternative Transportation

Best Subway Lines to Take to United Center

The United Center is easily accessible via public transportation, with several subway lines servicing the area. The closest subway stops to the United Center are:

  • CTA Green Line: Exit at the Ashland/Lake station and walk west to Damen Avenue, then north to the United Center.
  • CTA Blue Line: Exit at the Illinois Medical District station and walk north to the United Center.
united center parking tips cta blue line

Best City Buses to Get to United Center

Several city bus routes also provide convenient access to the United Center. The most popular bus routes are:

  • CTA Bus #19: This bus runs along United Center Express and stops at the main entrance located on Madison St.
  • CTA Bus #50: The Damen Avenue bus stops at Damen Avenue and Madison Street, just a short walk from the United Center.
united center cta bus park and ride

List of Park-and-Ride Options to United Center

Park-and-Ride options are available at several CTA stations, allowing you to park your car and take public transportation to the United Center. Some popular Park-and-Ride locations include:

  • Rosemont CTA Station (Blue Line): Located at 5801 N. River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018. Parking is available for a daily fee.
  • Forest Park CTA Station (Blue Line): Located at 711 Desplaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130. Parking is available for a daily fee.
  • Cumberland CTA Station (Blue Line): Located at 5800 N. Cumberland Ave, Chicago, IL 60631. Parking is available for a daily fee.

Where are Bicycle Parking Spots Near United Center?

Bicycle parking is available on the grounds of the United Center. Bike racks are near Gates 2, 3, 6, and 7.

Where are Electric Vehicle Parking Spots Near United Center?

Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are in the official H and K United Center parking lots. Charging is complimentary, but you must arrive early to guarantee your spot.

Where are Taxis, Uber, and Lyft Pickups Near United Center?

Taxis, Lyft and Uber ride pickups are available near the United Center. Three former Uber locations have been combined into one new Uber Zone on the corner of Madison Street and Wood Street.

The Uber Zone is easily accessible for riders and drivers, with an Uber attendant on-site assisting with pickups. If you are walking there after the game, look for the sidewalk entrance located on Madison Street.

united center rideshare pickup

Closest Free Parking Spaces Near the United Center

Where is the closest free street parking near United Center?

Free street parking near the United Center is limited but can be found on residential streets in the Near West Side neighborhood.

Be sure to check street signs for parking restrictions and permit requirements.

Nearby Neighborhoods with Free Parking Near the United Center

Some nearby neighborhoods offer free parking within walking distance of the United Center:

  • West Town: Located north of the United Center, West Town offers free street parking on some residential streets. Be prepared to walk several blocks to reach the venue.
  • Tri-Taylor: Located south of the United Center, Tri-Taylor also offers free street parking on residential streets. Make sure to check for parking restrictions and permit requirements.

Tailgating at United Center

Official United Center Tailgating Policies

Tailgating is not permitted in the United Center parking lots. Guests are encouraged to visit local bars and restaurants for pre-event gatherings.

Several bars and restaurants near the United Center are popular for pre-event gatherings:

  • The Ogden: A sports bar located at 1659 W. Ogden Ave, offering food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
  • WestEnd: Located at 1326 W. Madison St, this sports bar features multiple TVs, an extensive beer selection, and a menu of classic pub fare.
  • The Crossroads Bar & Grill: A casual dining spot at 1120 W. Madison St, offering various food and drink options and a lively atmosphere for pre-event fun.
the ogden tailgating near united center parking

United Center Parking Tips

To ensure a smooth and stress-free parking experience, follow these United Center parking tips:

  • Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before the event to secure a good parking spot and avoid traffic leading up to the venue.
  • Use Online Reservation Services: Services like SpotHero and ParkWhiz allow you to reserve parking spaces in advance, ensuring you have a guaranteed spot when you arrive.
  • Utilize Public Transit: Avoid parking altogether using Chicago’s extensive public transportation system, including buses and subway lines.
  • Carpooling: Carpool with friends or family to save on parking fees and reduce traffic congestion around the United Center

Accessibility for Disabled Guests

Where is ADA-Compliant Parking Options Near United Center?

The United Center offers ADA-compliant parking in all their official lots, ensuring easy access for disabled guests. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure a spot.

What are Special Assistance Services for Disabled Guests at United Center?

The United Center provides various special assistance services to ensure a comfortable experience for disabled guests:

  • Wheelchair Escorts: Guests can request a wheelchair escort from any venue entrance. A guest services representative will assist with transportation to and from the guest’s seating area.
  • Assisted Listening Devices: Assisted listening devices are available for loan at the Guest Relations Booth located in Section 115.
  • Accessible Seating: The United Center offers accessible seating for guests with disabilities. Contact the United Center Box Office at (312) 455-4500 for more information on purchasing accessible seating tickets.
  • Accessible Restrooms: All restrooms in the United Center are ADA-compliant and accessible for disabled guests.

Conclusion

When attending an event at the United Center, planning your parking and transportation in advance is essential. You can find the best solution for your needs with various options, from official United Center parking to free parking, public transit, and more.

Be sure to arrive early, utilize online reservation services, and consider alternative transportation methods to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

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