When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Wintrust Arena
Why Wintrust Arena is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wintrust Arena, located in the heart of Chicago's McCormick Place campus, is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue that seats 10,000 guests and offers 18,000 square feet of flexible floor space. This modern arena is renowned for hosting a diverse range of events, including sports, concerts, conventions, business meetings, and major special events. Serving as the home court for the DePaul University Blue Demons basketball teams and the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, Wintrust Arena combines professional athletic atmosphere with exceptional event capabilities. The venue provides 22 luxury suites that are equipped with catering services, private bars, and dedicated restrooms, accommodating groups of varying sizes and enhancing the hospitality experience. Its seamless connectivity via skybridges links the arena to McCormick Place as well as major hotels such as the Marriott Marquis Chicago and the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, making it incredibly accessible for attendees. Additional amenities include HD video scoreboards, LED boards, green rooms, media rooms, on-site catering, food courts, and family-friendly services. Health and safety are also top priorities, as the arena holds McCormick Place’s GBAC Star™ Accreditation for cleanliness and sanitation. Wintrust Arena’s combination of advanced technology, convenient location, and versatile uses makes it an outstanding destination to meet friends, enjoy live entertainment, and engage in vibrant urban experiences.
Here's what people think of Wintrust Arena
As of recent, Wintrust Arena holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3806 reviews.
User reviews for Wintrust Arena are generally positive, reflecting an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 3,800 reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the arena’s modern facilities, highlighting the comfortable seating, clear sightlines, and impressive sound quality during concerts and sporting events. The luxury suites and hospitality services receive particular praise for enhancing the event experience with personalized catering and premium amenities. Visitors also commend the arena’s convenient location on the McCormick Place campus and connectivity to nearby hotels via skybridges, which streamline access for convention attendees and event-goers alike. Positive reviews frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, cleanliness, and the family-friendly environment, all contributing to an enjoyable visit. On the other hand, some negative feedback comes from occasional congestion at entry points during large events and limited parking options, which can cause delays. Certain attendees note that food and beverage prices can be on the higher side, and a few express desire for more diverse dining options within or near the arena. Despite these concerns, the majority of guests leave with favorable impressions of Wintrust Arena’s quality and atmosphere. In conclusion, the reviews reflect a venue that delivers a high level of service and experience, suitable for sports fans, concert audiences, and business visitors, making it a well-regarded destination in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Final Explosion Entertainment
Beautiful building! Love the art! Security was on point, I felt safe! Parking was smooth even though the lines were long! There is a lot of walking so wear comfortable shoes. The seats are VERY UNCOMFORTABLE! They are not made for ladies with hips and cheeks. Upgraded to floor seats. Much better!
George Malakas
Modern, intimate arena with great sightlines and vibrant atmosphere. Easy access via CTA Green Line & buses. Clean facilities, good food/drink options, and lively crowd—perfect for Sky games or concerts. Comfortable seats, with club-section perks if you want extra amenities. A solid choice in the South Loop!
Stephanie Hines
I was there for the WE THEM ONES tour, the performance was outstanding, got my seat as close to the stage as possible at the time of purchase, the seats were comfortable but my only issue was being that I'm a non-smoker... I feel with as much as I spent on my tickets I shouldn't have been subjected to the second-hand smoking. Understood with such a big stadium it's probably hard to control, but something has to be done about it.
Keyur Doshi
Wintrust Arena is a well-managed venue with great facilities and a clean, modern setup. The surrounding area feels safe, and there’s plenty of paid parking available nearby, which is definitely a plus. However, for a smaller graduation event, the crowd management could have been better. It felt a bit disorganized at times, especially during entry and exit. That said, the venue itself is impressive and has a lot of potential with just a bit more attention to people flow during larger gatherings.
Special Thoughts
THIS WAS MY FIRST TIME AT A WNBA GAME. I had SO MUCH FUN!! The woman of Chicago Sky played there butts off !!! They had an announcer and DJ that kept the crowd going !! If you haven't been..... It's a must try!!!
How to reach Wintrust Arena
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Why Wintrust Arena may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wintrust Arena with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a get-together is all about choosing a venue that excites, entertains, and offers a shared experience to remember — Wintrust Arena stands out as an exceptional choice for these reasons. Situated in the vibrant heart of Chicago’s McCormick Place campus, this modern facility offers a dynamic urban atmosphere perfect for social bonding. From the moment you step in, the arena’s striking architecture with its elegant curved roof and expansive glass walls sets an energetic and welcoming tone that sparks excitement. Its accessibility via public transit like CTA and Metra makes planning easy, whether you’re coming from downtown or the suburbs. Also, the arena is designed for inclusivity and comfort, with wheelchair access, ample seating for groups large or small, and 22 state-of-the-art suites that provide private and upscale spaces. Whether you and your friends want to catch a thrilling basketball game, immerse yourselves in a live concert, or just enjoy the buzzing surrounding neighborhood entertainment and dining, Wintrust Arena offers an unparalleled setting where shared moments and memories naturally flourish.
What activities can you enjoy at Wintrust Arena?
Wintrust Arena hosts an impressive mix of events all year round, catering to a wide range of group interests. Sports enthusiasts can rally around the home court action featuring the DePaul University Blue Demons men’s and women’s basketball teams, alongside WNBA’s Chicago Sky team, delivering high-energy games that make perfect group outings. For music lovers, the arena regularly features concerts spanning genres, making it a vibrant hub of live entertainment where friends can sing along and enjoy great performances together. Beyond sports and concerts, the arena doubles as a top venue for conventions, general business sessions, family shows, and festivals — events that can be ideal for group visits depending on your interests. The facility includes expansive floor space and multiple configurable suites, ideal for private meetups or celebrations with catering and bar options that add to the social experience. Additionally, its connection by skybridges to notable hotels like the Marriott Marquis Chicago and the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place offers convenience and opportunities for extended group stays or pre/post-event dining and drinks.
Why is Wintrust Arena perfect for group meetups?
Wintrust Arena’s design and amenities make it highly suitable for hosting groups of friends or family looking to create a unique experience together. The 10,000-seat capacity means you can bring along a large party without worrying about ticket availability or space constraints. More intimate meetups benefit from 22 beautifully appointed suites that provide privacy, luxury, and convenience — many including catering services and private bars, perfect for celebrations, reunions, or corporate gatherings. Its location on the McCormick Place campus enhances the social experience by situating visitors near a dense cluster of entertainment and dining venues, so groups can extend their outing beyond the arena itself. With health and safety features such as sanitizer stations and the arena's GBAC Star™ accreditation for rigorous sanitation, visitors can feel secure enjoying time together. Free public Wi-Fi and multiple seating options create added comfort and flexibility for varying group sizes and preferences, making the arena an accommodating and welcoming space for any social occasion.
How does the architecture and design enhance your visit?
Wintrust Arena is not just an event venue but also a piece of Chicago’s architectural identity, making each visit visually and emotionally appealing. Designed by the internationally acclaimed Pelli Clarke & Partners, the arena echoes Chicago’s tradition of grand public rooms, merging functionality with aesthetic excellence. The elegant curving roof and light-filled glass walls create an open, airy atmosphere filled with natural light, enhancing the ambiance for any event you attend with friends. This sense of space fosters a feeling of community and shared excitement that elevates the experience beyond the ordinary. The interior’s state-of-the-art HD video scoreboard and LED boards ensure everyone is engaged and has a clear view no matter where they sit. Such thoughtful architectural details make the arena feel like part of the city’s fabric, connecting visitors more deeply to Chicago during their meetups.
What facilities and services enhance your group’s comfort and enjoyment?
Wintrust Arena goes beyond just its events to provide a comprehensive, comfortable experience tailored to groups. The arena features 22 luxury suites that can be booked for private functions, complete with dedicated restrooms, catering options, and private bars, offering an elevated environment for groups to relax and socialize away from the crowd. Food courts and on-site catering ensure a variety of dining choices, while bars and lounges offer refreshing beverage options to complement your social outing. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-friendly spaces and services ensuring that everyone in the group can fully participate. Also, the arena supports modern conveniences such as mobile payments and on-site ATMs, making transactions seamless. Complimentary public Wi-Fi keeps everyone connected during the event, ideal for sharing moments on social media or coordinating plans. All these facilities contribute to a worry-free, enjoyable group meetup.
How does its location add value to your day out?
The Wintrust Arena’s location on the McCormick Place campus places it in one of Chicago’s most bustling and accessible areas, adding significant value to your group outing. Being connected via skybridges to key hotels like the Marriott Marquis and Hyatt Regency makes it easy for groups traveling from out of town to coordinate accommodations and enjoy a full day or weekend event centered around the arena. The McCormick Square neighborhood is undergoing a vibrant resurgence, with retail and restaurant developments contributing to a lively, walkable urban environment. This means after catching a game or concert, groups can stroll to nearby eateries, cafes, or bars for dinner or drinks, extending the social experience seamlessly. Public transportation options like CTA and Metra stations within short walking distance make it convenient for everyone to convene without stressing over parking or driving. The location also presents an exciting opportunity to explore Chicago’s Motor Row historic district, enriching your day with a blend of entertainment and culture.
What makes Wintrust Arena stand out compared to other venues?
Wintrust Arena distinguishes itself through its blend of cutting-edge technology, architectural beauty, and multi-purpose design that caters to diverse group experiences. Unlike older or single-purpose venues, it boasts modern HD scoreboards and LED displays, luxury suites, and flexible spaces that adapt from sports to concerts, conventions, and private functions. Its public-private partnership origin between the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority and DePaul University reinforces a commitment to community engagement and excellence. The arena’s role as home to collegiate and professional basketball teams provides regular highlights for sports fans, while its schedule of concerts and family shows broadens appeal to all ages and tastes. Coupled with top-notch health standards and accessibility features, it’s an inclusive, safe, and comfortable setting. Architecturally, its graceful roofline and transparent walls let it shine as a beacon of Chicago pride and innovation. This comprehensive package makes it a top choice for any group aiming for a memorable, hassle-free gathering.
How accessible and convenient is the arena for visitors?
Accessibility and convenience are key strengths of Wintrust Arena, making it an excellent venue for group meetups. The arena is designed to accommodate visitors of all mobility levels with wheelchair accessibility and ADA compliance woven into its infrastructure. Its central location near major public transit hubs, including CTA and Metra stops, reduces travel hassles and enables attendees to ditch car worries. For those driving, ample parking facilities are available nearby. Within the venue, visitors benefit from well-marked access points, multiple entryways, and clear signage. The arena also offers mobile payment options to speed up purchases and reduce lines, while complimentary Wi-Fi ensures guests stay connected. Staff are trained to support groups and individuals alike, facilitating smooth entry and enjoyable experiences. Together, these features ensure that the journey to and within Wintrust Arena is straightforward and stress-free.
What is the atmosphere like during events at Wintrust Arena?
Attending an event at Wintrust Arena with friends means immersing yourself in an electric, communal atmosphere energized by modern design and enthusiastic crowds. The arena’s acoustics and layout create intimate proximity to the action despite its large 10,000-seat capacity, encouraging an engaging, high-energy vibe. Whether it’s the roar of basketball fans cheering on the home team or the applause at a concert, the energy is contagious and enhances group enjoyment. The open and bright interior spaces, combined with vibrant LED lighting effects during shows, add to the visual excitement. The arena’s design fosters a safe and welcoming environment, encouraging interactions and camaraderie among attendees. This liveliness combined with comfort means every event can feel special, making your meetup more memorable.
How can you maximize your group experience at Wintrust Arena?
To get the most out of your visit to Wintrust Arena with friends, plan around its diverse event calendar to pick an occasion everyone will enjoy, whether a game, concert, or special event. Booking one of the 22 luxury suites can elevate the experience by giving your group a private space with personalized services, ideal for celebrations or just a more intimate environment within a large venue. Arrive early to explore the McCormick Square area and take advantage of the connected hotel amenities for dining or pre-event drinks. Take full advantage of the arena’s food courts and bars to sample a variety of tasty options without leaving your group. Utilize the free Wi-Fi to share your experiences live and stay coordinated. Lastly, embrace public transit options to ease parking concerns and ensure everyone can join the fun. With these tips, you and your friends can transform a simple outing into a memorable bonding experience at this premier Chicago venue.