Spectrum Center
Vibrant arena in Uptown Charlotte, home to the Hornets and a premier venue for concerts and events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the buzz
Spectrum Center
Best Time
Experience the buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant arena in Uptown Charlotte, home to the Hornets and a premier venue for concerts and events.
"The staff here made the experience so much better. Super friendly, funny, and just all around good people."
🚫 No Bag Policy
Only small bags (4x6 inches) allowed. Plan ahead!
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Consider buying tickets closer to the event for potential savings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charlotte Hornets Games
Arena Floor
Experience the electric atmosphere of an NBA game with passionate fans and thrilling plays.

Concert Performances
Main Stage
Catch top artists and bands in this state-of-the-art venue known for its excellent acoustics.

Renovated Lounges & Suites
Exclusive Areas
Enjoy an elevated experience with premium amenities and prime views in the newly updated suites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bag Policy Alert!
Ticket Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Bag Policy
Only small bags (4x6 inches) allowed. Plan ahead!
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Consider buying tickets closer to the event for potential savings.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You might do a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
📱 Mobile Ticketing
Ensure your tickets are accessible on your phone before arrival.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Bag Policy
Only small bags (4x6 inches) allowed. Plan ahead!
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Consider buying tickets closer to the event for potential savings.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You might do a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
📱 Mobile Ticketing
Ensure your tickets are accessible on your phone before arrival.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Uptown parking can be challenging; research options in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Spectrum Center is praised for its energetic atmosphere during events, excellent sound systems, and friendly staff who go the extra mile to ensure a great experience. Visitors appreciate the venue's location in Uptown Charlotte and the historical displays. However, some reviewers note that the food quality can be inconsistent and the climb to upper-level seats can be strenuous.
"My wife and I came here for the Brooks and Dunn Neon Moon concert. Stayed in a sponsored suite. Staff very friendly, attentive and accommodating. Very well laid out and food was very good. They even had.my favorite beer. It was a great time."
CSFY, LLC
"I drove me and my daughter 5 1/2 hrs (one way) to come and see disturbed 25 year anniversary tour. And this venue made every second in that car worth it. The show itself was out of the water amazing, between lights, production,and sound. Every artist on the tour was amazing. But the staff here made the experience so much better. Super friendly, funny, and just all around good people. And a HUGE shout out to the supervisor who heard my joke and took it to heart 🖤 me and my daughter got sat behind a very nice man who was about 7ft tall while we're 5ft on a good day 😅 thank you for moving us to where we could see and enjoy the show in all it's full glory. You gave my daughter an experience she will never forget and I won't ever forget your kindness.Not only to find me later,move us, but also to check back and make sure we were good and enjoying ourselves. Would 1000/10 drive back just to come to this venue again 👏🏻 amazing work guys!!"
Twitch Hall
"Went here to watch our favorite College basketball team play. The experience was wonderful for my boys. We had nosebleed seats and the view was still pretty awesome. The stairs climbing up is the only downfall. We had a great time!"
Danielle Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Spectrum Center is located at 333 East Trade Street in Uptown Charlotte. You can reach it via car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options include the Lynx Blue Line light rail, with the Spectrum Center station being a convenient stop. Ride-sharing services are also readily available.
There are numerous parking garages and lots surrounding the Spectrum Center in Uptown Charlotte. Popular options include the Overstreet Mall, the EpiCentre parking garage, and various private lots. It's advisable to research and potentially pre-book parking, especially for major events, as spots can fill up quickly.
Yes, public transport is a great way to get to the Spectrum Center. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates bus routes that stop near the arena, and the Lynx Blue Line light rail has a dedicated Spectrum Center station, making it very accessible.
Yes, ride-sharing services and personal vehicles can drop off passengers at designated areas near the Spectrum Center entrances. This is a convenient option to avoid parking hassles for events.
The official address for the Spectrum Center is 333 East Trade Street, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Spectrum Center enforces a strict no-bag policy, with the exception of small clutches measuring no larger than 4x6 inches. Any bags larger than this will not be permitted into the arena.
Tickets for Spectrum Center events can be purchased through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster, as well as reputable resale sites such as SeatGeek, StubHub, and Vivid Seats. For some events, direct purchase at the box office might be available.
Discounts can sometimes be found on resale markets closer to the event date, or through special promotions. Following the Spectrum Center and specific event organizers on social media can also alert you to potential deals.
Door opening times for Spectrum Center events vary depending on the specific show or game. It's recommended to check the event details on the official Spectrum Center website or your ticket provider for the most accurate information. Typically, doors open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Spectrum Center. Concessions are available for purchase throughout the arena, offering a variety of food and drink options.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
Spectrum Center offers a range of concessions, including classic arena fare like hot dogs and nachos, as well as local favorites. Some reviewers mention options like pizza from Brixx and Chick-fil-A, though others find the food quality inconsistent.
Yes, Spectrum Center features newly renovated lounges and suites that offer an elevated experience with premium amenities and excellent views. These are ideal for entertaining guests.
For guests with sensory challenges, Spectrum Center offers a Schindler-sponsored sensory room located outside of section 102, providing a quiet space to recharge.
Seating at Spectrum Center varies from floor level to upper decks. Even 'nosebleed' seats can offer a pretty awesome view of the action, though climbing the stairs to higher levels can be a workout.
Yes, there is a team store inside Spectrum Center where you can purchase Charlotte Hornets merchandise, including apparel and even shoes.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography is generally allowed at Spectrum Center for non-commercial use, but professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy, as some performers may have restrictions.
For iconic shots, capture the arena during a lively Charlotte Hornets game or a concert performance. The exterior architecture and the vibrant atmosphere inside during events offer great photo opportunities.
While phone cameras are usually permitted, flash photography is often discouraged during performances to avoid distracting artists and other attendees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking for family-friendly events or specific promotions. The venue also has a sensory room for children who may need a quiet break from the stimulation of the arena. Planning your transportation and parking in advance will also help make the family outing smoother.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food expenses, consider eating before or after the event at more affordable spots in Uptown Charlotte, or exploring the food trucks mentioned by locals near the arena. Utilizing public transportation like the Lynx Blue Line can also be more economical than paying for parking.
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Attending a concert can be a memorable shared experience, with a wide variety of musical acts performing throughout the year. Enjoying a meal at one of the upscale restaurants in the surrounding Uptown area before or after the event can complete a perfect evening out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Spectrum Center Bag Policy
This 'no bag' or 'small bag only' rule is designed to enhance security and expedite the entry process for all attendees. It's crucial to check the official Spectrum Center website or your event's specific guidelines for the most current information, as policies can sometimes be updated. Failure to comply with the bag policy may result in denied entry or the need to return your bag to your vehicle.
Travelers are advised to pack light and only bring essential items that fit within the allowed dimensions. Consider leaving larger bags at your accommodation or in your car to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival at the venue.
Scoring Great Seats and Deals
Exploring various ticket resale platforms like Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, StubHub, and Vivid Seats is recommended. These platforms allow you to compare prices and seating options from different sellers. For major events, tickets can be in high demand, so flexibility with dates or seating locations might increase your chances of finding a good deal.
When attending Charlotte Hornets games, even 'nosebleed' seats can offer a surprisingly good view of the action, according to some reviews. The energy of the crowd and the overall game experience can make any seat enjoyable.
Culinary Delights (and Disappointments)
One Reddit user suggested that the food trucks located a block away from the stadium offered a more satisfying culinary experience. This highlights a potential strategy for attendees looking for better food options outside the immediate arena concessions.
For those seeking a more premium dining experience, the Spectrum Center offers renovated lounges and suites that provide elevated food and beverage options, making it a more refined way to enjoy an event.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit