Spectrum Center Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Charlotte.
Last updated: 3/4/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | Only small bags, clutches, crossbodies, and wristlets that do not exceed 5in x 7in x 1.5in are permitted. This policy applies to all bags, clear or not. Exceptions are made for diaper and medical bags, including breast pumps, which will undergo x-ray screening upon entry. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Gates typically open 90 minutes to 2 hours before the start of games or shows. |
| Cashless? | Spectrum Center is a 100% cashless venue for all concession stands and retail locations. Reverse ATM kiosks are available throughout the arena for guests to convert cash to a prepaid debit card. |
| Rideshare zone | Designated rideshare pickup and drop-off areas are located along East Trade Street and South Caldwell Street. The venue's entrance at 333 East Trade Street is also a designated pick-up spot. |
| Re-entry | Re-entry to Spectrum Center is not permitted during any event. |
| Transit | Public transit options include the LYNX Blue Line light rail, which stops directly at the CTC/Arena Station, located just outside Spectrum Center. Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) bus service also provides several routes that stop near the arena, with the Charlotte Transportation Center situated directly across Trade Street. |
Parking
Nearly 30,000 off-street parking spaces are available within a 15-minute walk of Spectrum Center. Pre-purchasing parking is recommended. Services like SpotHero and ParkMobile can be used to find and reserve parking. Spectrum Center does not offer onsite parking.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Large strollers may be checked in at one of the Guest Experience booths located outside sections 102 or 208.
- Family perks: Baby changing stations are available in all restrooms, and a Novant Health Parent Room is located on the Belk Concourse.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Spectrum Center offers a diverse culinary experience with options such as house-smoked BBQ, bulgogi rice bowls, fresh hummus, salads, local sweet treats, Brixx Pizza, Chick-Fil-A, and selections from 704 Kitchen.
- Local tradition: The 'Crown Club' is a dedicated Charlotte Hornets fan club that organizes pre-game tailgates and watch parties to foster community and enhance the fan experience. The team's tagline 'Hive Mentality' also reflects local fan enthusiasm.
Verified places nearby
- Duckworth's Uptown330 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202 · UptownWhat to order: Craft beers, snacks, food from their menu.
- Connolly's on 5th115 E 5th St, Charlotte, NC 28202 · UptownWhat to order: Guinness, Irish Whiskeys.
- Selwyn Avenue Pub2801 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte, NC 28209 · Myers ParkWhat to order: Signature 50-piece wings, $5 "transfusions" cocktails.
- Blinders Sports Lounge225 W Tremont Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203 · South EndWhat to order: High-quality, sharable dishes, expertly crafted cocktails.
- The Union2200 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203 · South EndWhat to order: Beer, daily specials.
- Ink N Ivy222 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202 · UptownWhat to order: American cuisine, craft beers, cocktails.