Taking the kids to a Chicago Bulls game? Here’s everything to know

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

The 2025-26 basketball season has begun, and that means it’s time for the whole family to make some memories with the Chicago Bulls!

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! 

Updated Nov. 24, 2025: This article was reviewed and updated by the Chicago Parent editorial team to reflect new event dates, refreshed links and the latest information available for families.

Quick details about United Center

Bulls game with kids
Photo courtesy of the Chicago Bulls

  • Address: 1901 W Madison St., Chicago
  • Season: Oct. 22, 2025-April 12, 2026.
  • Getting there: The stadium is accessible from the Illinois Medical District blue line stop, the Damen green 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 CTA Trip Planner or the RTA planner to plan your trip using public transit. 
  • Parking: Parking lots open two-and-a-half hours prior to the game. Prices can vary and are subject to change at any time. 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 Nov. 22, Dec. 31, Jan. 2 and 18, Feb. 21, March 1 and 23 and April 5. 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

Bulls game with kids
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-by-6-by-2 inches. A bag check is available near the corner of Madison Street and Wood Street. For more information about prohibited items, check out United Center’s full policy list.
  • 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 on the 100 Level, and Sections 221 and 325. 
  • A Nursing Room is located near Sections 112/113, Gate 7. 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

Bulls game with kids
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 either a free rookie member certificate or a $40 all-star membership kit, both of which come with special benefits, such as behind-the-scenes experiences, merch discounts and more.
  • 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 East 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, truffle fries and more.

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Nikki Roberts
Nikki Roberts
Nikki Roberts is a former assistant editor at Chicago Parent. During her time with the team, she was always on the lookout for the coolest and trendiest new attractions, restaurants and events for Chicagoland families. Her newsletters, family guides and digital content helped local parents stay in the know on all the latest happenings around town.
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