Spectrum Center Bag Policy 2024 - Key Details
Charlotte, North Carolina has a lot to offer tourists. It's both picturesque and welcoming and packs a punch where attractions, sightseeing, restaurants, and shopping are concerned. But another fixture that has become incredibly popular in the city is the Spectrum Center. This is the largest indoor sports and entertainment venue in the city and it's no stranger to big events.
The venue is home to the NBA's Charlotte Hornets which have a massive fan following. It also hosts professional wrestling shows, concerts, touring events, and hosted the NCAA Basketball "March Madness" games. The arena seats 20,000 and boasts modern amenities and what's described as "cutting-edge audiovisual facilities". Another key feature is that every seat in the arena offers streamlined sightlines. There is no such thing as a bad seat.
Located at 333 E Trade St, in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, it makes getting to and from the venue simple. It's also only six miles away from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. You may also want to include some sightseeing and dining before or after your event, with many locations within walking distance of the Spectrum Center, or a short taxi ride away. Some of the standout attractions in and around Charlotte include Carowinds, Discovery Place Science, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Sullenberger Aviation Museum, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.
We want to make sure your visit to the Spectrum Center is fabulous and without any little issues, so let's take a look at the bag policy so you can be prepared.
Bag Policy at the Spectrum Center: What You Need to Know Before You Visit
Spectrum Center not only has a bag policy but also strongly encourages against bringing bags. Permitted bags are small bags, clutches, wristlets, or crossbody bags. All bags need to be smaller than 10" x 10" x 4". This is meant to create a safe environment and an efficient entry process. All bags will go through an X-ray screening.
Prohibited items include laptop bags, luggage, totes, and backpacks. Exceptions will be made for diaper bags, breast pump bags, and items for medical purposes. These will also go through an X-ray machine. You can contact the arena staff in advance if you have any questions.
Another important feature of the bag policy is that there are no on-site lockers or storage available. This is why arena staff advises guests to arrive light, and preferably, empty-handed. If you have items that are bigger than the bag policy allows, you'll need a solution which is why our temporary bag storage near Spectrum Center is so useful.
Store Your Bags with Bounce and Make the Most of Your Visit to the Spectrum Center
So what happens if you have your luggage with you, oversized bags, and perhaps backpacks? You won't be able to bring them into the arena and there is nowhere on site to store them. Well, we have a convenient and affordable solution, and that's to book temporary luggage storage with us. Because we have partner locations within a close distance of the Spectrum Center, you don't have to worry about going out of your way. The whole idea is that we are a solution, and our carefully chosen locations reflect that.
All you need to do is download the Bounce app so you can browse through the locations available. When you find the one that works for your itinerary, you can make a reservation through the app. It's quick and user-friendly and provides you with peace of mind that your spot is booked and will be ready for you when you arrive.
Convenience is only part of what we offer, we also feature affordable rates. Our bag storage in Charlotte starts at $4.60 per bag, per day. We even offer a 24-hour flat rate fee so you're not going to be worrying about costs adding up while you're at the game or event. You may even want to drop your belongings off well before the event so you can also do a little sightseeing without your heavy items.
All our bookings also include protection of $10,000. Your bags will be safe and secure while you're off having a great time at the Spectrum Center. And if you have any questions at all, our 24/7 support is here to help!
Policies to Keep In Mind When Going to the Spectrum Center
Besides the bag restrictions, there are other policies at the stadium you'll also need to know about. Here are the most important ones.
Spectrum Center Doesn't Allow Outside Food and Drinks
There are no outside beverages or food allowed in the venue. This includes outside alcoholic beverages. As well, you can't bring cans, bottles, or coolers (hard and soft-sided), inside with you. If you have medical needs then some exceptions may be offered. It's best to contact the venue in advance to ask.
The good news is that there are plenty of food and beverage options inside the stadium. You'll find the typical arena fare like pizza, hot dogs, nachos, and burgers as well as other options in the concourse.
Spectrum Center Welcomes Cameras
Cameras with a lens of 6” or less are allowed, but all video and audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. Professional equipment like monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are also prohibited.
Be Aware of the Prohibited Items at the Spectrum Center
Besides all the policies listed above, there is also a long list of prohibited items. These items include umbrellas, beach balls, bats (baseball), laser pointers, audio and video recording devices, tablets, aerosol cans, fireworks, frisbees, plastic horns, and large banners. This list is always changing, so it's best to take a look online before you arrive.
You can always download the Spectrum Center app to learn more about what's prohibited, order from concession stands, scan your mobile tickets, and more.
Final Useful Tips When Going to Spectrum Center
You've got a few ways to get to the Spectrum Center, it comes down to where you are coming from and how affordable and convenient you want the transportation to be.
In terms of affordability, public transportation is the best option. You can use the LYNX light rail service since the Blue Line drops you off across the street from the arena. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is the bus line and it has a stop at the Trade Street entrance.
Walking is also an option if you're near Uptown Charlotte, just make sure you give yourself enough time to get to the gates.
Taxis and rideshares are available, but they use surge pricing so they are more expensive at busy times. Spectrum Center events tend to fall into surge pricing.
Some hotels may offer shuttle services for Charlotte Hornets games, just ask at the front desk.
And if you want to drive, there are parking lots near the arena but they can be very busy and very expensive.
Guests entering the stadium should note that re-entry isn't allowed. If you leave, that's it, you won't be allowed back in. Doors open 60 minutes prior to tip-off for Hornets games, but they vary for concerts and events.
If you or a member of your party is disabled, there is a disabled drop-off at 5th Street.
This is a cashless facility, which means you need to use debit or credit cards. There are reverse ATM kiosks throughout the venue that allow you to convert cash into a prepaid debit card. You can then use that card at any of the concession stands, the Hornets Fan Shop, and additional retail locations.
This is a smoke-free facility, which includes cigarettes, cigars, tobacco products, vaping, pipes, and electronic cigarettes.
Animals aren't allowed in the facility except for guide dogs and service animals.
Leaving Your Luggage with Bounce Will Help Ensure a Fabulous Time at the Spectrum Center
All of these tips and information are meant to make your visit to the Spectrum Center a great one, whether you're there for a Charlotte Hornets game or some other event. And when it comes to luggage and any prohibited bags, we've got your back. You can count on us for worry-free, affordable, and convenient luggage storage. All you should be worried about is finding your seat before the event begins!