Family Guide to a Chicago Bulls Game

Learn how to score the best family deals at United Center and get more tips for attending a NBA game with kids.

Get ready, Bulls fans! The Chicago Bulls home opener is on Oct. 25 versus the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

Whether it’s your child’s first game or your kiddos are seasoned pros, game day is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming, especially for families with little ones or for Bulls fans who get overwhelmed in large crowds. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate family fan guide to help you cheer on the Chicago Bulls. 

Find deals on tickets for the entire fam, ideas for game day fun, suggestions on where to eat and more in our Chicago Bulls family guide. Go Bulls! 

Quick Details about United Center

Photo courtesy of the Chicago Bulls

  • Address: 1901 W Madison St., Chicago
  • Season: Opening Day is Oct. 25.  
  • Getting there: The stadium is accessible from the Illinois Medical District blue line stop, and the Ashland/Lake pink and green line stop. The CTA 9, 19, 20, 50 and 126 buses also service the stadium. Use the RTA planner to plan your trip using public transit. 
  • Parking: Parking lots open two-and-a-half hours prior to the game. Rates range from $25-$43. Save a few dollars on parking by purchasing your parking pass ahead of time online. 

Purchasing tickets for a Chicago Bulls game

  • A mobile ticket is required for entry. Download the Bulls app before you go; screenshots and printouts will not be accepted. 
  • Children under 36 inches tall do not need a ticket but they must remain on a parent’s lap for the duration of the game. 
  • Score big savings with a Family Ticket Pack. The packs are available for games on Oct. 12, 19 and 27. Each ticket includes a hot dog, a bag of chips and a fountain drink. 
  • Have a college-aged student in the family? The Student Pass allows college students to receive special ticket offers for up to four tickets every Bulls home game.

Tips for families attending a Chicago Bulls game

Photo courtesy of the Chicago Bulls

  • Download the Chicago Bulls mobile app before you go for easy access to your tickets, a stadium map, games, giveaways and more. 
  • The United Center is fully cashless, so leave that paper at home. The stadium accepts credit/debit cards as well as Apple, Google and Samsung Pay. 
  • Backpacks and large bags are not allowed in United Center. Guests may bring a small purse or bag up to 10 in. x 6 in. x 2 in. A bag check is available in Parking Lot J on Wood St. and Monroe St. 
  • Strollers must be checked at a Guest Relations booth. Guest Relations is located at Gates 2 and 6, and Sections 221 and 325. 
  • Family restrooms are located on the 100 Level in the First Aid room across from Section 115/116, and on the 300 Level at the top of Section 303/304. 
  • A Sensory Room is located at Gate 2 1/2. The room offers a therapeutic space with equipment to promote a calming environment for guests with sensory needs. Sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, weighted lap pads and more are available at Gates 2 and 6, and Sections 221 and 325. 
  • A Nursing Room is located near Sections 112/113. Visit the Guest Relations booth at Gate 6 to request access to the room.
  • Lost and Found is located at Guest Relations booths located at Gates 2 and 6, and Sections 221 and 325. 

What to do with kids at United Center

Queenie’s Supper Club. Photo credit: Sandy Noto.

Other than cheer on the Bulls, of course! 

  • Register for the free Bulls Kid Nation Kids Club at the Bulls Kid Nation Zone in Section 326. Kids will receive a rookie member certificate and badge, along with access to raffles, behind-the-scenes experiences and more. 
  • Socialize with Benny the Bull. To see what the beloved red bull is up to on game day, follow him on Instagram.
  • You won’t want to miss the halftime show at a Bulls game! From performances by the Luvabulls cheerleaders and the Swingin’ Seniors to musical performances by the Bulls DJs and Bucket Boys, the fun doesn’t stop just because the clock does. 
  • What’s a ball game without concessions? From Chicago classics to veggie options, there are plenty of kid-friendly options for the entire family. Check out the food and beverage offerings at United Center before you go to make it easy to locate your favorite vendors on game day. 
    • In a rush? Visit the Pepsi Grab N Go markets. Simply tap your card to enter the market, then leave with your items. Amazon’s Just Walk Out Technology will charge your card; no need to wait in line.
  • For a truly splurge-worthy meal (and we’re not talking about overpriced hot dogs and nachos) dine at Queenie’s Supper Club before the game. Located above the atrium at Gate 4, their fall menu has luxe options including Maine Lobster Bisque, steaks, pork chops, salmon and sea bass. Kid-friendly bites include macaroni and cheese, pull-apart bread, truffle fries and more.

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