The United Center in Chicago, Illinois is home to the Chicago Bulls NBA basketball team and the Chicago Blackhawks NHL hockey team. With a capacity of over 20,000 for basketball games, parking and transportation to United Center events can get complicated. So do you need to pay for parking at United Center? Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Overview
The short answer is yes, you do need to pay for parking at United Center for most events. There are over 15,000 parking spaces available around United Center ranging from $20-50 per vehicle. Parking lots open 2-3 hours before an event and prices fluctuate based on the event. There are some limited free parking options on residential streets farther away from the arena.
United Center Parking Lots
There are a number of parking lots and garages immediately surrounding United Center that are available for event parking. Prices range from $20-50 per vehicle depending on the lot and event. Parking lots open 2-3 hours before an event and are operated by United Center and third party companies like SP+ Parking and Premier Parking:
- United Center Lots C & K – $50
- United Center Lot J – $40
- United Center Lot L – $30
- United Center Lots A & B – $25
- Premier Parking Lots – $20-40
- SP+ Parking Lots – $20-50
These lots are all within a short walk of United Center entrances and provide the most convenient parking option. Prices are set per individual event and higher profile games or concerts typically have higher parking rates.
Street Parking Near United Center
There are residential streets adjacent to United Center where you can park for free, but availability is extremely limited. Spots fill up hours before events. The key streets with free parking include:
- Wood Street
- Hermitage Avenue
- Honore Street
- Warren Boulevard
- Adams Street
- Jackson Boulevard
Parking on these streets is first-come, first-served. Be prepared to arrive very early to get a spot. Make sure to read street parking signs carefully and avoid blocking driveways or parking too close to intersections. Free street parking is very scarce and should not be relied upon.
Parking Garages Near United Center
There are also several parking garages and lots within walking distance of United Center where you can pay to park:
| Garage/Lot | Distance | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gateway Parking Garage | 2 blocks | $25 |
| City Front Plaza Garage | 3 blocks | $25 |
| Lot G | 4 blocks | $40 |
These garages are a bit farther from United Center entrances than main parking lots, but still offer convenient parking with shorter walks than street parking. Prices fluctuate based on events.
Public Transportation to United Center
If you want to avoid parking altogether, taking public transportation to United Center events is a great option. Here are some of the best public transit routes:
- CTA Green Line – The Ashland station is 1 block south of United Center
- CTA Pink Line – The Ashland station is 2 blocks south of United Center
- CTA Bus Routes – #9 Ashland, #19 United Center Express, and #20 Madison
- Metra – Closest station is the Ashland Ave Metra Electric Line
Using CTA trains or buses eliminates parking concerns. Make sure to plan enough time to navigate public transportation crowds before and after events.
Rideshare to United Center
Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is another parking-free transportation option. Pickup and dropoff areas are located around United Center:
- Uber/Lyft Lot E – East of United Center near Lot C
- Uber/Lyft Lot F – Southeast of United Center off Wood Street
Pricing surges before and after events, so expect inflated ride costs. Also account for extra time to get picked up due to increased demand.
Accessible Parking at United Center
Accessible parking for guests with disabilities is available in United Center Lot C for $50 per vehicle. An accessible drop off area is also located at Gate 7. Parking areas are limited, so accessible parking should be purchased in advance if needed.
Motorcycle and Bicycle Parking
Free motorcycle parking is available in United Center Lot L, with over 100 spots available. Bicycle racks are located near Gate 2, Gate 7, and the Michael Jordan statue.
Where Not to Park Near United Center
Avoid parking in the nearby Fulton River District before events. This area is strictly permitted parking only and street parking is not allowed for United Center events. Parking illegally may lead to parking tickets or being towed. The Fulton River District is bordered by Lake Street, Chicago Ave, Halsted Street, and Randolph Street.
Conclusion
So in summary, yes parking at the United Center for an event will require paying for parking in almost all cases. Convenient parking lots and garages right by the arena range from $20-50 per vehicle, depending on proximity and event. Free street parking is extremely limited. Public transportation or rideshares are good ways to avoid parking altogether. Make sure to plan ahead and budget time and money for parking or transportation when attending an event at the United Center.
