Spectrum Center visitor guide: everything you need to know

The Spectrum Center is the largest indoor sports and entertainment venue in Charlotte. It functions primarily as the home of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. Outside of the Hornets, the Spectrum Center has also hosted NCAA Basketball “March Madness” games and some of the largest professional wrestling shows. 

With a seating capacity of 20,000, it’s a massive arena, which makes it an ideal venue for the largest concerts and events that come through Charlotte. Everyone from ACDC to Ariana Grande has played at the Spectrum Center, and the cutting-edge audiovisual facilities and streamlined sightlines make it an ideal place to see a show. 

The arena’s location in the heart of Uptown makes it a fantastic place to see a game or show, with access to the best nightlife and dining in Charlotte. It’s particularly convenient for traveling fans, with many of the city’s hotels being located nearby. Even with the convenient location, fans stuck with their luggage will want to find a place to store it before heading to the Spectrum Center. That’s where Bounce comes in. With locations all over the city, we’re your Spectrum Center luggage storage solution. We’re the best option for finding a secure place to store the bags while you’re at the game.

Spectrum Center bag policy 

The Spectrum Center bag policy prohibits all bags except for purses and clutches smaller than 10” X 10” X 4”. Each item that meets these requirements will be required to go through X-ray screening upon entry. All backpacks, totes, luggage, laptop bags, and other items are strictly prohibited. 

The Spectrum Center does not have storage lockers onsite, and its bag policy is pretty strict, so you certainly won’t want to bring your luggage to the gate. While this may put you in a bind, there are plenty of options for securely storing your bags while you’re at the game. Bounce’s Downtown Charlotte location is your best bet for finding a reliable luggage storage facility near the Spectrum Center. 

Spectrum Center food policy

All outside food and beverage are prohibited, as stated in the Spectrum Center food policy. Empty water bottles and containers are also prohibited, medical and family exceptions will be made. 

Being located near downtown Charlotte, the Spectrum Center has a wide variety of stellar dining and nightlife options within walking distance. Charlotte’s diner game is on point, with two of the city’s most famous restaurants being located within a stone’s throw from the Spectrum Center. Midnight Diner and Redeye Diner are both iconic greasy spoons serving up diner classics at all hours. You might have to leave the game early to get a spot at either because it’s a go-to post-game spot. Another local favorite is Rooster’s Wood Fired Kitchen. 

Craft beer fans gush over Birdsong Brewing, which is a quick Uber ride away from the arena. One of the city's best cocktail bars is Infused, which is also nearby. You’ll definitely want to make a reservation to get a table here.

Spectrum Center transportation 

The venue is located in bustling Uptown Charlotte, making it a central and easily accessible location for visitors. Here are the best ways to get to the Spectrum Center: 

Light rail

The LYNX Blue Line light rail system in Charlotte has a station called "Spectrum Center / Arena'' that provides immediate access to the venue. This is the best way to beat traffic, and this station is steps from the arena gates. 

Walking

If you're staying in or near Uptown Charlotte, walking is the cheapest and easiest option. 

CATS buses

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) buses serve a few routes throughout the city, including the #34 Trade Street and the #4 Caldwell Street buses. 

Car

Even with being situated in the middle of the city, driving and parking is still a very popular way to get to the Spectrum Center. Parking generally costs $30 for Hornets games. Tailgating is not common for games or events, as most fans opt for a pregame meal at a bar or restaurant. 

Rideshare and taxis

Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are very easy to call in Charlotte, but they can be expensive at certain hours because of surge pricing. There are dedicated drop-off and pick-up areas outside the stadium.  

Shuttle services

Certain hotels and establishments may offer shuttle services to concerts and events at the Spectrum Center, but this is rare for Hornets games. 

Spectrum Center camera policy 

Cameras with a lens of 6” or less are allowed, but all video and audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. It’s safe to assume that professional gear, such as monopods and tripods, aren’t allowed in, either. iPads, tablets, and GoPros would qualify as video equipment, so they are prohibited. Selfie sticks are also banned.

Spectrum Center rules 

Banners, signs, and flags 

Banners, flags, and signs must not be longer than 18”, made of flammable material, affixed to a pole or stick, or block the views of any other guests.

Entry 

In an effort to combat fraudulent ticketing and scams, the Spectrum Center and Charlotte Hornets have adopted electronic ticketing via their mobile apps. It’s highly advisable to avoid going through third-party or secondary market ticketing, and all hard copies or screenshots of tickets will not be accepted at the gate. 

Doors open 60 minutes prior to tip-off for Hornets games, but they vary for concerts and events. 

Payment 

Like other arenas, the Spectrum Center has gone completely cashless for all concessions and merchandise sales. They’ve only recently begun taking mobile payments, so a credit or debit card is the best way to go. Reverse ATMs are also onsite. 

Conclusion 

If you’re visiting Charlotte for a Hornets game or a can’t-miss show at the Spectrum Center, you’re in for a treat. Not only is this place the biggest and best venue in the city for sports and entertainment, the atmosphere is absolutely fantastic. With its stellar location in Uptown, you’ll be able to experience the best culture, dining, and nightlife Charlotte has to offer before and after the game. Just don’t let your bags weigh you down. Instead, let Bounce take care of the luggage so you can enjoy the show with the peace of mind you can only get with a truly reliable luggage storage service.