United Center Bag Policy: Top Tips and Details

Fans of Michael Jordan and the NBA Chicago Bulls know just how hallowed the grounds are at the United Center. Located near the west side of the "Windy City", the United Center is the perfect place to catch a live sports game while visiting Chicago. The fact that you can get your picture taken beside the Michael Jordan statute may be reason enough to purchase tickets.

And it's not just the Chicago Bulls that call the United Center home, as these facilities are also the home arena for the famed NHL Chicago Blackhawks. Part of the "Original Six", the Blackhawks are just as popular with the locals as with visitors.

Live sports make up most of the schedule but you can also watch concerts, comedy shows, the circus, and more. There are event days year-round, so no matter when you visit there's probably something happening.

If you've got plans to travel to Chicago and enjoy a live event at United Center, it's important to note that you can't take your luggage with you. You're going to need to have a plan of where to safely store your luggage since the United Center doesn't have on-site storage. We'll take a look at that and more in this guide to the bag policy, rules, and regulations.

United Center Bag Policy Specifics

As noted above, the United Center doesn't allow you to bring luggage and oversized bags into the arena. There is no on-site storage either. The bag policy allows for one small purse or personal bag. It cannot be bigger than 10"x6"x2", which is pretty small when you think about it. Some of the prohibited bag types include backpacks and briefcases.

There is an exception for baby carriers and diaper bags, which takes the stress off parents. There is also an exception for required medical equipment.

One unique feature is that bag check is available in United Center Parking Lot J. Parking Lot J on Wood St and Monroe St can conduct a security check but the parking lot gets very busy and crowded. Relying on this option isn't advised. Instead, it's best to arrive well before the event start time because the bag check area at the gates can also be very slow.

For games and concerts, the gates open 90 minutes prior to tip-off, face-off, or the start of the performance.

Bounce Provides a Simple Solution for Bag Storage While at United Center Events

When it comes to the safest and most reliable place to store your luggage while at the United Center, and even exploring Chicago, Bounce is the answer. We offer temporary luggage storage at partner locations throughout the city. Just download our app, find the location that works best for you, and book it.

All our bookings include $10,000 luggage protection and a 24-hour flat fee. Luggage will be stored in safe areas that are off-limits to the public. Just imagine how wonderful it will be to enjoy the city's nightlight, restaurants, shops, bars, and attractions without having to draw your heavy bags around for the day. Just drop your bags and go! It couldn't possibly be any more convenient.

Additional Restrictions and Rules at United Center

The United Center bag policy is important to know, but the arena also has other policies and rules that all guests need to follow. Here are a few worth highlighting to make sure your visit is worry-free.

Transportation Options

One of the best things about visiting the United Center is just how easy it is to access. With it being near the west side, you have the option of driving, public transit, rideshare, and even walking distance from your previous location if you're already sightseeing in the area.

If you are eyeing public transportation then you can take the #20 Madison bus or the #59 Damen bus. Both the Green and Pink train lines feed into Ashland Station, which is a 15-minute walk from the arena.

As noted, there are specified United Center parking lots but they fill up fast, and then it can be very slow to exit the lot after your event.

If you're using a taxi or rideshare, they can drop you off at the designated ride-share pickup points. There are also designated taxi stands.

Food Policy

Wondering what food and drink are permitted inside the arena? It's very simple, outside food and drinks aren't allowed in the arena. The only exceptions are for small children and those with medical needs. This will need to be approved by United Center guest relations.

Just because you can't bring food in doesn't mean you'll go hungry though. The arena has a massive selection of concession stands, with a focus on local companies and restaurants. You get a true sense of Chicago's food scene.

If you plan on buying food and drinks, or even merchandise purchases, you'll need to have a debit or credit card. This is a fully cashless arena.

Camera Policy

The camera policy differs for sporting events and concerts. For sporting events, you can use a non-professional still camera. You cannot use flash and you can only take pictures when the arena lights are illuminated. You can't use additional photography equipment such as a tripod or selfie stick.

For concerts, there are no video recording devices, audio recorders, or professional cameras allowed.

Strollers

You can use a stroller to come to the arena but once you arrive it will need to be checked at the Guest Relations Booths located at Gates 2 or 6. Child-carrying packs are allowed, so that may be a better plan for parents with babies.

Noise-Making Items

Any air horn or noise-making item is prohibited. Banners, signs, or flags aren’t officially allowed in the stadium either.

Make the Most of Your Visit to the United Center

If you've been watching the box office for the United Center, watching for a live event that would appeal to you while in Chicago, there is no reason to hold back on making the purchase. The United Center is a world-class arena that continues to provide thrills to its fans year after year. Making sure you're well acquainted with the United Center bag policy means you can have a great time without any security issues at the gate.