United Center Bag Policy 2024 - Key Details

Fans of Michael Jordan and the NBA Chicago Bulls know just how hallowed the grounds are at the United Center. 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.

Located at 1901 W Madison St. on the west side of the city, 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. Some of the biggest concerts to take place at United Center in front of a sold-out crowd include Dua Lipa, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Madonna, Rolling Stones, U2, KISS, The Who, and so many more.

Besides live events at the United Center, the city is known for a wide array of attractions. Some of the most popular include Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, the Museum of Science and Industry Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago, and the Riverwalk to name a few. The city also has a robust dining scene and lively nightlife.

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.

Bag Policy at United Center: What You Need to Know Before You Visit

As noted above, the United Center doesn't allow you to bring luggage and oversized bags into the arena. The bag policy allows for one small purse or a 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 since it can be slow, and the bag check can fill up before you even get there.

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, our temporary luggage storage is the most convenient and affordable solution. We've got partner locations within close proximity to the United Center, which means you don't have to go out of the way just to drop off your belongings.

We suggest you download the Bounce app so you can scroll through the locations and find one that works for you. You can make a reservation through the app so you're guaranteed no headaches on the day of the game or event at United Center.

Our bag storage starts at $4.10 per bag, per day in Chicago, and with our 24-hour flat rate fee, you won't have to worry about added costs. All our bookings also include protection of $10,000. Your bags will be safe and secure while you're off having a great time. And if you have any questions at all, our 24/7 support is here to help! And what happens if your plans suddenly change? Not to worry, we've got a free cancellation policy.

Policies to Keep In Mind When Going to the 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.

No Outside Food and Drink Allowed in the United Center

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.

Guests Can Bring Cameras to the United Center

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.

There Is a Stroller Policy in Effect at the United Center

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 Are Prohibited at United Center

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

Final Useful Tips When Going To United Center

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 of Chicago, you have the option of driving, public transit, rideshare, and even walking 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 empty after events.

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.

Make the Most of Your Visit to the United Center and Remember to Book Luggage Storage with Bounce

If you've been browsing the box office options 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 a ticket 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. And don't forget, we're here to help you with your luggage so you don't have to worry about the bag policy when you arrive at the venue.