Spectrum Center
Charlotte, NC · Arena
Spectrum Center in uptown Charlotte keeps a strict bag limit and does not use a clear bag rule. The only bag you can bring is a small clutch, crossbody, or wristlet no bigger than 5 by 7 by 1.5 inches, and it does not have to be clear. That covers Hornets games and concerts alike.
Backpacks are firmly out, including mini, fashion, and clear backpacks. Only diaper and medical bags get an exception, and those go to the Fan Shop or Box Office entrance for x-ray screening. The arena uses frictionless scanners, so in most cases you walk straight in without emptying your pockets. There is no bag check, so leave anything larger in the car.
Venue details
Need a concert bag for Spectrum Center?
Stadium-approved clear bags that meet the policy.
What you can bring
- Small bag, clutch, crossbody, or wristlet no larger than 5" x 7" x 1.5", clear or not
- Phones, wallets, and keys carried in your pockets
- Diaper and medical bags, including breast pumps, inspected at the Fan Shop or Box Office entrance
Not allowed inside
- All bags larger than 5" x 7" x 1.5"
- Backpacks of any kind, including mini, fashion, and clear backpacks
- Outside food and beverages, including water bottles
- Professional camera equipment and selfie sticks
- Noisemakers and laser pointers
Only diaper and medical bags, including breast pumps, are allowed beyond the small clutch. Bring them to the Hornets Fan Shop or Box Office entrance near Trade Street Plaza for x-ray screening.
Upcoming events
Heading to a show at Spectrum Center? Here are the next events, with tickets on StubHub and SeatGeek so you can compare before you buy. The bag policy above applies to every one of them.
Browse all upcoming concerts →
No bag that fits? Plan ahead
Spectrum Center has no bag check, so anything larger than a 5 by 7 by 1.5 inch clutch, other than a diaper or medical bag, has to stay in your vehicle. Frictionless scanners mean you usually keep your bag and pockets as you walk in.
Common questions
What is the Spectrum Center bag policy?
Only a small clutch, crossbody, or wristlet up to 5 by 7 by 1.5 inches, clear or not. Backpacks of any kind are banned.
Does Spectrum Center require clear bags?
No. There is no clear bag rule, but the size limit is small at 5 by 7 by 1.5 inches.
Can I bring a backpack to Spectrum Center?
No. Backpacks are prohibited, including mini, fashion, and clear backpacks.
What is the bag policy for Hornets games?
The same 5 by 7 by 1.5 inch limit applies to Hornets games and concerts. Diaper and medical bags are x-rayed at the Fan Shop or Box Office entrance.
Getting there
Gates open
Doors usually open 90 minutes before Hornets tip-off and 60 to 90 minutes before concerts.
Parking
Uptown Charlotte decks and lots surround the arena. Booking ahead through a parking app is the easy option.
Public transit
The LYNX Blue Line light rail stops at the CTC/Arena station right at the building, a short ride from uptown and South End.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft use a designated zone near the arena. Follow staff signage after the event.
Seating chart
Verified June 2026 against the Spectrum Center official policy. Rules can change for one-off events, so check your event page too.