Spectrum Center

Capacity: 17,500

Events: NBA, Concerts, Special Events

Home Teams: Charlotte Hornets (NBA)

About Spectrum Center

The Spectrum Center is an indoor arena in the uptown portion of Charlotte, North Carolina. The city owns and operates the arena, and the Charlotte Hornets NBA team calls it home. While the venue hosts many NBA games and even playoff series, it also holds professional wrestling shows and other sports events. In addition to sports, guests can take in big-name musicians in concerts alongside thousands of other fans.

Spectrum Center Rules

The Spectrum Center has several rules and suggestions to help every guest make the most of the event they are coming to see. Here are a few to notice:

• Arrive 45-60 minutes before your event to get to your seat and avoid congestion.

• All tickets (with limited exceptions) are digital. Have your tickets ready when you approach the gate. Tickets will be accessible on the Hornets + Spectrum Center App

• The venue is 100% cashless, so bring cards for payments. There are reverse ATMs around the venue for converting cash into a card.

• Concession stands have mobile ordering options, so you miss less of your event.

• Reserved parking is available through the website or the ParkMobile app.

• Only small bags/purses are allowed. The venue recommends leaving all bags behind to make check-in faster.

Spectrum Center Bag Policy

Staff at the Spectrum Center don’t want fans and guests to have to stand in long lines to get into the arena. To reduce those wait times, they have a no-bag policy in place.

However, there are some exceptions to the rule. Guests may bring in small purses or bags that are 10x10x4”. These bags must go through an X-ray machine before you enter the arena, which leads to a longer amount of time before you get to your seat.

Spectrum Center Seating

Configuration of seats may vary between events. At the Spectrum Center, seating is different for a concert than it would be for a sporting event. Check the Spectrum Center event page for the seating map to confirm your seat location. All you need to do is click on the event you’re attending and move forward as if you were buying a ticket. You can then view the seating chart for that event and pinpoint exactly where you are going to sit.

Spectrum Center Review

• Section 108

  • Fans who sat in this section for past concerts raved about the view, according to Rate Your Seats. They were in the upper bowl portion of the arena, so their seats were stadium-style, which allowed them to see around people in front of them. They weren’t on the floor amidst the craziness and could see the stage. It also gave their ears a bit of relief from the loud music others experience when they sit closer to the speakers in the front.

• Section 116

  • As far as watching an NBA game goes, fans report that one of the lower-level corner sections, such as 116, is the best way to go. You get a good view of the court, and you are up a bit, so you can watch the game without having to strain around the people in front of you. Plus, it’s not far from the concourse so you can pick up your snacks or hit the restroom when needed, according to fans on Reddit.

• Section 201

  • For concerts, fans have been disappointed with these seats. One group sat in this section for a Neil Diamond concert and said they could barely see the stage. On Trip Advisor, they said they were disappointed there weren’t screens showing the concert so they could see up close. They also said that just over from their seats, there was a large screen completely blocking the view of those who sat there. These fans stated the sound was great, so they could hear well, but for the price they paid and the amount they drove to be there, not seeing was a big deal to them.

For concerts, we recommend a side section, like 106 or 113 to get closest to the stage without blocking your view with others. For a straight-on view, try sections 101 or 107 in the back. For an NBA game, fans believe sections 103 and 116 in the corners are best.

Getting to Spectrum Center

Spectrum Center by Car

The Spectrum Center is accessible to guests by car. It is located in Uptown Charlotte at 333 East Trade Street. Get specific directions from your region on the official website. You can get directions from four different interstates or directions from inside the city to take the best route to the venue.

The arena is bordered by Firth, Caldwell, and Trade Streets.

Spectrum Center Parking

You can reserve your parking spot in advance with the Spectrum Center. Choose your event and get the spot you’d like ready for your arrival!

There are also nearly 30,000 parking spots within 15 minutes in many directions from the arena. As long as you are able to walk, you can find spots in the area.

You can also get a Free Cart ride from your parking spot in the South End District right to the arena. Call 704-238-3111 or just wave them down when they drive by.

How Much Does Spectrum Center Parking Cost?

Prices vary based on what lot you choose and the distance from the Spectrum Center. You can expect to pay at least $20, though spots start at $10.

Spectrum Center by Public Transportation

The Spectrum Center is near the Lynx Light Rail Transit line, so it is easy to access by public transportation. It is also right across from Trade Street, where the Charlotte Transportation Center lies. This center is the main access point for bus services. The venue can be accessed by bus or the Light Rain Transit line with ease.

Many fans like to take public transportation in order to avoid parking obstacles. It can take less time and be less of a hassle.

Hotels Near Spectrum Center

• DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte City Center

• Hilton Charlotte Uptown

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown First Ward

• EmbassySuites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown

• Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Uptown

Restaurants Near Spectrum Center

• Fahrenheit Charlotte

• Midnight Diner

• Rooster’s Wood-fired Kitchen

• Ri Ra Irish Pub

• Mert’s Heart and Soul

Accessibility at Spectrum Center

The Spectrum Center wants everyone who attends an event to be comfortable and that means accessibility for those who need extra options. Here are a few accessible details:

• ADA Seating

  • There is a limited amount of ADA seating available, and you can purchase those seats on a first-come, first-served basis. You are allowed to get three companion seats along with your ADA seat.

• Accessible Entrance

  • Those with disabilities should enter the arena near Fifth Street, where the disabled drop-off is located. You can also use the Trade Street entrance and take the elevator inside that main entrance.

• Assisted Listening Devices

  • Assisted Listening Devices are available for those who have trouble hearing or for the blind. The devices are free of charge, and they can be picked up at Guest Services near section 102. Guests can also bring their own headsets and access the broadcast that way.

• Guide Dogs

  • Animals other than guide or service dogs are not allowed in the arena. Guest services can help with accommodations. Call 704-688-8128.

• Interpreters

  • If you need an interpreter, contact Guest Services three weeks before the event you are attending to secure that option.