Spectrum Center, home of the Charlotte Hornets, is one of the busiest event venues in the Carolinas. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go — address, parking, the official bag policy, doors and entry, and seating tips — all verified against the venue’s official A-Z Guide.
Spectrum Center is a cashless venue: concessions, bars, and retail accept major credit cards, and Cash-to-Card kiosks convert cash to a prepaid debit card.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 333 East Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.
Driving: from I-77, exit onto John Belk Freeway (I-277) or Trade Street. Parking options include public and private garages, decks, and surface lots within walking distance of the arena; availability and prices vary by event. The venue also links a Parking and Traffic Information page and SpotHero for pre-booking.
Public transit: the LYNX Blue Line stops at the CTC/Arena Station, adjacent to the arena and steps from the entrances. The CityLYNX Gold Line Trade Street stops are a short walk away, and CATS buses connect via the Charlotte Transportation Center across Trade Street. Rideshare pickup/drop-off locations may change by event; East 5th Street is generally most convenient.
Bag Policy
The official policy, as the venue states it: “Only small bags, clutches, crossbody bags, and wristlets measuring no more than 5 inches by 7 inches by 1.5 inches are permitted.” This applies to clear and opaque bags alike — clear bags over the size limit are not allowed.
Prohibited bags include: backpacks; purses, fanny packs, and belt bags larger than the permitted size; totes and shopping bags; briefcases and luggage; camera bags; cinch/drawstring bags; and any bag larger than 5 × 7 × 1.5 inches.
Exceptions may be made for diaper bags (with an infant or young child), medical/disability bags, and breast pumps. All permitted bags are subject to visual inspection and x-ray screening. The policy can change by event, so check the event page before you go.
Doors & Entry
General-admission entrances are the 5th Street Entrance, the Trade Street Entrance, and the Belk Light Rail Entrance, unless otherwise directed for your event. All guests and belongings are screened on entry.
The venue does not state a fixed door-opening time — doors vary by event. Arrive early and check your event page for the stated door time. Most events are mobile-ticket only; screenshots, recordings, or printed copies may not be accepted.
Seating Tips
Seating configurations vary by event — check the event seating chart before you buy. Accessible seating is available; see the venue’s A-Z Guide for details.