A to Z Guide

By law, all parking facilities must provide accessible parking spots. Accessible parking is available in Lot A. Please contact each garage to further inquire about accessible parking. For questions about parking information, please contact Standard Parking: (312) 567-8360.

Accessible seating is located on all concourses.

Individuals, who have mobility difficulties are eligible to purchase accessible seating. Also, guests with service dogs, which cannot fit under a non-accessible seat or lie safely in the aisle, are also permitted to purchase accessible seats. Up to three companion tickets may be exchanged with each accessible ticket. If adjacent seats have already been issued, the companion seats will be placed in the closest available location.

Tickets for accessible seats may be sold to individuals who require accessible seating themselves or to someone purchasing on their behalf. People with disabilities who do not require the specific features of accessible seating but merely have a preference for them are not entitled to purchase accessible seats. We ask you to be respectful of those who truly need accessible seating. Accessible seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Guests are encouraged to bring their own mobility devices (e.g. wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, etc.) for the duration of events. Elevators are available for ease of getting to each concourse.

Accessible seats can be purchased at the Wintrust Arena Box Office or online at Ticketmaster.

Join the Inner Circle today for exclusive access to pre-sale tickets. Joining is FREE! 

You can purchase tickets in advance for any public event at Wintrust Arena Box Office during regular business hours. Please visit our Box Office for more information.

Per the State of Illinois laws, no individual UNDER the age of 21 will be allowed to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages of any kind. Please have a valid I.D. available for proof of age.

For the safety of our patrons, the service of alcohol is cut off at the beginning of the last performer and for basketball games, at the start of the 4th quarter.

Animals are not allowed in the Wintrust Arena with the exception of Certified Service Animals.

Events will not make special announcements for birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

ATMs are located in the main lobby and on the concourse near section 202.

Video and audio recording is never permitted.

Baby changing stations are located throughout the arena in the family restrooms.

If you are interested in Booking an Event at the Wintrust Arena or Arie Crown Theater, please email booking@wintrustarena.com.

The Box Office windows are located at 200 East Cermak Road between Prairie and Indiana on the South Side of the Wintrust Arena. The Wintrust Arena Box Office is open Tuesday and Friday, 11 AM – 6 PM, event days, weekends, and holiday hours will vary. Please call in advance to determine if the Box Office will be open. The Box Office is open three hours before and closes one hour after each event begins.

Please note, that the Wintrust Arena Box Office only sells tickets for Wintrust Arena and the Arie Crown Theater events. For tickets for events at other venues, please go directly to Ticketmaster or the venue where the event will be held. The Wintrust Arena is a fully cashless venue. We accept debit/credit cards at our Box Office.

Each show sets forth its individual guidelines and policies which the arena must adhere to. As a rule, small personal and disposable cameras are allowed. Cameras with detachable lenses, professional cameras or recording devices are not permitted. GoPro, iPads, and Selfie Sticks are NOT allowed. Please call ahead to confirm each show’s audio, video and camera policy.

Tickets for canceled shows should be returned to the original point of purchase for a refund. Tickets purchased through Ticketmaster will automatically be refunded.

The Wintrust Arena is a fully cashless venue. We accept debit/credit cards at our Box Office and concession stands accept debit/credit cards and mobile payments.

The arena is home to the 2021 WNBA Champions, Chicago Sky. Their season typically runs from May to early October. To contact them, please visit sky.wnba.com.

For all concert events, all guests - including children - are required to have a ticket to enter the arena.

For all collegiate sporting events, as well as family shows, children who are under 32 inches in height do not need a ticket to enter the arena. The adult will be allowed to have one child sit on their lap.

Concessions and food stands are located on all concourses of the arena; offering a variety of favorites including Pepsi products, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, plant-based chicken tenders, Garret Popcorn and more.

The Wintrust Arena is a fully cashless venue. The concession stands accept debit/credit cards and mobile payments.

Coupons and vouchers must be redeemed at the Box Office. For information on what your coupon or voucher entails, please read the coupon or voucher carefully.

Effective February 28, 2022, the mask mandate by the State of Illinois and the mask/vaccine mandate for indoor dining for the City of Chicago have been lifted for events. Masks are recommended, but optional, for attendees while visiting Wintrust Arena.

The number one priority of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition (MPEA) & Wintrust Arena has always been, and continues to be, the health and safety of our employees and clients. Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, we have worked closely with public health officials and followed all guidance regarding meetings and events. We are actively implementing and updating our practices in accordance with federal, state, and local government recommendations.

For safety reasons, we ask that patrons do not wear belts with spikes. In addition, some shows do not allow chains in the form of accessories. Accessories or clothing that may pose a threat; i.e. belts with spikes, spiked necklaces, etc. or clothing that has been specifically banned by a show may be confiscated. Please call the arena in advance should you have any questions. Each show is different so please don’t hesitate to call. Shoes, shirts, and pants must be worn at all times.

Wintrust Arena is home to DePaul University’s Blue Demons Men and Women’s Basketball. Their season typically runs from November – March. To contact them, please visit www.depaulbluedemons.com

The doors for entry will open 60 minutes prior to game time for DePaul University and Chicago Sky. For all concert events, doors will open 60 minutes prior to show time. Doors entry times are subject to change based on the event.

Wintrust Arena reserves the right to eject any patron that poses a threat to themselves or other guests. This includes, but is not limited to; intoxication, disorderly conduct, drug use, sexual harassment, etc. You will not be allowed reentry into the building.

There are two (2) elevator(s) located on the west side of the building for guests’ convenience. Guests may use the elevators to go between the ground floor and the third level only.

We only accept applications and resumes for posted positions. Wintrust Arena is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA.

If you are interested in joining our team, please visit our current opportunities page on McCormick Place’s website.

EMT staff is always present in the arena during events. Should a mishap occur, please contact one of our arena staff members. We will contact an EMT staffer immediately. The First Aid office is located on the concourse level at the north end behind section 114.

For health code and safety reasons, the arena does not allow outside food and beverages, including water. If you have health concerns or allergies, please call the arena in advance. Our Box Office is open on Tuesday and Friday from 11 AM – 6 PM.

For certain events, at the event’s request, the arena will remove all bottle tops from soda and water. We also may pour alcoholic beverages into plastic cups.

We do NOT use peanut oil in any of its menu items. We use trans-fat-free Canola oil in all of its fried food items.

Peanut M&Ms in a sealed bag are the only peanut products sold at Wintrust Arena.

Food selections available that do NOT contain wheat, oats, rye or barley are: hamburger patties, sausages, French fries, candy and popcorn.

If you have allergy restrictions, we encourage you to ask to inquire about the ingredients prior to your purchase.

Guest Services is located on the 2nd-floor concourse behind section 114. We encourage our patrons to visit Guest Services immediately to take care of any concerns.

Group tickets are offered on a show-by-show basis. It is up to the show promoter or tour if group tickets are available. To inquire about group tickets please call (312) 791-6900 or you may visit our Box Office for more information.

There are several hotels in the general vicinity of the Arena that are within walking distance. Learn more about area hotels.

Joining the Inner Circle is FREE. You will be the first to hear about upcoming events, receive special offers and promotions, access exclusive presales and more! 

For all concert events, all guests— including children— are required to have a ticket to enter the arena. For all collegiate sporting events, as well as family, shows, children that are under 32 inches in height do not need a ticket to enter the arena. The adult will be allowed to have one child sit on his/her lap.

Wintrust Arena has a Mamava Lactation Pod, creating an inclusive experience for guests as well as meeting the needs of breastfeeding employees who need private pumping accommodations. The Mamava pod is placed on the Main Concourse near section 120 outside our family restroom. Mamava is transforming the culture of breastfeeding by making it easier for more parents to pump or nurse at work and on the go. Mamava’s freestanding lactation pods are intentionally designed to provide a comfortable and private option to breastfeed or pump. The pods can be accessed through the free Mamava mobile app, which helps parents find thousands of lactation spaces (not just Mamava pods) and empowers parents to share encouraging “Words of Support” notes with other breastfeeding parents.

Lost and Found is located on the second-floor concourse at Guest Services by section 114.

If you are at an event and lose an item:

• During an event – visit Guest Services (located by section 114).
• See if your item has been turned in. If not, file a claim and the Guests Services Attendant may contact you if your item is located.

If you have left the arena and realized an item is lost:

Check Lost and Found daily. Items may be found days after an event.

• Guests have 60 days to claim and pick up their items. After the time allotted, items able to be donated will be. All IDs and credit cards will be destroyed after the 60-day period for security purposes. All other items will be recycled or disposed of properly.
• Items may be found several days after an event, based on the arena cleaning schedule. Please check the website for continual updates.

If your item is NOT listed, you should still select the gray ‘File A Claim’ button.

Items can be picked up at the arena for no charge. After an item has been claimed and verified, it can be picked up at the Wintrust Arena Security Office, located on 21st St., located at the rear of the arena.

If you are unable to pick up your item, it can be shipped to you. Guests must pay all associated shipping costs.

If a guest you came with cannot be found, please go to one of our arena staff members immediately. They will assist you with finding your guest. You may also visit Guest Services located on the second-floor concourse behind section 114.

Media credentials are handled on an individual event basis. The tour publicist is responsible for approving or denying coverage of each event. We will contact the media once we have received the approved media requests. Requests are not allowed on the day of the event. Approved photographers must be escorted at all times in the building.

Merchandise stands are located on the concourses level for most shows. For family events, you may find portables on additional floors. Merchandise is managed by the tour.

Each event is different. Some offer discounts, while others do not. Please call us to see if an event you are interested in offers a military discount, call (312) 791-6900.

For all events tickets are digital. When you get to the arena, the ticket takers can scan the barcode on your phone and you will be admitted inside.

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Outside food and beverage are not permitted unless medically needed.

There are three parking lots at McCormick Place, Lot A, B and C. Lot A is the closest to the Wintrust Arena and has access to the pedestrian bridges to the Wintrust Arena, Marriot Marquee Chicago and Hyatt Regency McCormick Place. For a GPS location to Lot A, use 2301 South Prairie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616 as your destination. View more information on additional parking options.

For the safety, security, and enjoyment of all guests, a variety of items are not allowed in the Wintrust Arena. Your cooperation will help expedite entering the facility. We thank you for your understanding. Please visit our Prohibited Items web page for more information.

In an effort to enhance public safety and the fan experience, Wintrust Arena utilizes metal detectors and enforces the following purse and bag policy limiting the size and style of bags allowed. Please visit our Purse and Bag Policy web page for more information.

Tickets for canceled shows should be returned to the original point of purchase for a refund. Tickets purchased through Ticketmaster.com or by phone will automatically be refunded.

You may not receive a refund if you are ejected from the building due to disorderly conduct of any kind (see Ejection/Guest Removal).

You may not receive a refund if you attended the show (in part or in its entirety).

The arena is unable to refund any tickets purchased from any vendor or secondary ticket broker other than the Arena Box Office or Ticketmaster. No exceptions.

There is no reentry at any time. Once you have left the building during an event, you may not reenter. Signs reflecting this policy are located on all exit doors.

KultureCity has partnered with Wintrust Arena to make the Wintrust Arena and all of its hosted programs and events sensory-inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with sensory issue that visits the Wintrust Arena. Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Wintrust Arena.

Sensory items available to you or a family member include headphones, fidget mesh, fidget ball, feeling thermometer, and KCVIP lanyard. The lanyard will help our staff better identify and entertain guests with sensory needs.  If you, or a family member, have sensory sensitivity needs, please visit Guest Services located on the second-floor concourse of the arena. It will be our pleasure to assist you.

People with disabilities may bring their service animals into all areas where attendees are generally allowed. Service animals include guide dogs, signal dogs or other animals that have been individually trained to provide service to an individual with a disability. Any animal that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others shall be required to leave.

While each show sets forth its own policies, as a rule, large banners (larger than 2’ x 3’) and signs on sticks are NOT allowed in the arena for events as they interfere with the enjoyment of other patrons.

We are able to provide sign language interpretation upon request free of charge. To request sign language interpretation, please contact the Arie Crown Theater at least 10 working days prior to the event at contact@wintrustarena.com.

In accordance with the City of Chicago and the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, smoking is prohibited inside Wintrust Arena and Arie Crown Theater. (this includes all smoking tobacco, marijuana, e-cigarettes and vaporizers). Violators of this policy may be ejected from the venue.

We do allow small strollers in the building. Please see an usher for the exact location where you may leave your stroller. There is no guest check-in for strollers. Stroller loss and/or damage is extremely rare at the arena. Each guest is responsible for remembering the location of your stroller.

You can enjoy the Wintrust Arena’s calendar our exclusive from suites! It’s the perfect way to entertain current & future clients, reward outstanding employees, or celebrate a special occasion with close friends – all in a private & relaxed environment. Suites feature first-class amenities, comfortable furnishings & personal service. All suite rentals include:

• 12 – 16 tickets to the event; depending on the size of the suite you purchase
• In Suite, catering is also available.
  • Please contact Gwendolyn Hondras at ghondras@mccormickplace.com for more information.
• Personal Suite Attendant (optional)

For more information, pricing & availability, please email Wintrust Arena Premium Seating at suites@wintrustarena.com.

No large umbrellas. Small, hand-size umbrellas are allowed in severe weather.

Water fountains are located throughout the building. They can be found directly next to the restrooms on each floor and feature fountains and water bottle refilling stations.

Weapons are not permitted on the arena premises. Weapons found at the bag check will be confiscated. Any patron caught with a weapon during an event is subject to early ejection. Confiscated items will NOT be returned.

Chicago SkyRiders with credentials and their Wintrust Bank card receive a 15% discount on hot dogs, hot dog combos, popcorn buckets and fountain soda at all Chicago Sky home games.