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United Center Information
In 1988, plans for the United Center began under the direction of William Wirtz, owner of the Chicago Blackhawks, and Jerry Reinsdorf, Team Chairman of the Chicago Bulls. The idea was to create a new venue that would entertain fans while being an innovative concept for the 21st century. In 1992, construction began on what is now the largest arena in the United States. Seated on 960,000 sq. ft. and standing 136 ft. tall, The United Center officially opened it's doors in 1994.
It can accommodate 20,500 hockey fans, 21,500 basketball lovers and up to 23,500 concert goers. In constructing the United Center, 3,500 tons of steel was used, along with 645,000 sq. ft of drywall. This massive complex has 1,850 doors, 6,500 parking spaces, 9 elevators, 50 restrooms and 8 escalators.
The Chicago Blackhawks have called the United Center home since 1995. During their first season, the Hawks packed the venue to the rafters in almost every game, which earned them the title of the first team in NHL history to record an average of over 20,000 fans in one season. Fellow tenants, the Chicago Bulls also call the United Center home.
The Hall of Fame, located at the United Center, features both Blackhawks and Bulls memorabilia. Among the treasures include Michael Jordan's original contract, Muhammad Ali's boxing gloves, 5 NBA Championship rings, Keith Magnuson's tooth and much more. The Hall of Fame is located inside Fandemonium, which is the official team store at the United Center. Spectators can browse the store only on game day, but executive suite holders can order in and have their merchandise delivered right to their suite.
For spectators who want to get an inside look at United Center, tours are available with all proceeds going to charity. The United Center Backstage Tour features the Chicago Blackhawks Organ Room, the Scoreboard Control Room, the Press Box and a suite tour. Time permitting, fans will also have the opportunity to see the team NBA locker room in the Talent Corridor. All proceeds from the United Center Backstage Tour are donated to the Chicago Blackhawk charities, CharitaBulls and the Chicago Bulls charity.
Known best for basketball and hockey, sports fans enjoy plenty of competition at The United Center. In addition, concert goers have found a place to see performances from The Rolling Stones, U2, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen and many others. Since opening in 1994, The United Center has been host to over 200 events annually and over 20 million spectators since it opened. For children, the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus have appeared, as well as Disney on Ice.
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