A new chapter begins for Chicago’s hockey community as the expansion of Blackhawks Ice Center presented by Fifth Third Bank opened in early March just south of United Center, unveiling a fan-forward space built for unforgettable moments on and off the ice. The refreshed facility offers fans and groups a thoughtfully crafted destination built around their experience.
With two new rinks recently becoming operational, the fully expanded center introduces an elevated collection of premium spaces designed to transform how athletes, fans, and community members engage with the sport of hockey. These additions further solidify Blackhawks Ice Center as a dynamic destination where world-class hockey development meets immersive, year-round experiences.
“From the beginning, our goal has been to create a facility that not only serves our Blackhawks players, but also opens doors for the next generation and the broader Chicago community,” says Danny Wirtz, chairman and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, in a prepared statement. “Blackhawks Ice Center represents the future of hockey in the Midwest—a place where innovation meets tradition and where our vision for growing the game comes to life.”
The expanded Chicago Blackhawks Ice Center’s featured spaces include:
- Centennial Hall: Situated between Rink 3 and USG Arena, Centennial Hall is an immersive tribute to the franchise’s 100-year legacy, featuring dynamic displays, rotating artifact cases, and interactive storytelling that connect visitors and attendees to the franchise’s rich history. Free and open to the public during facility hours, the space celebrates defining eras, championship milestones, and the individuals who shaped the team’s culture and impact. Centennial Hall will also become the permanent home of the Blackhawks Hall of Fame when it launches in April.
- USG Arena: As one of the two new rinks added through the expansion, USG Arena at Blackhawks Ice Center elevates the standard for modern hockey venues. With seating for up to 2,000 spectators, the arena includes a center-hung scoreboard, video ribbon boards, NHL-quality lighting and audio, full broadcast capabilities, and premium party decks that redefine the fan and attendee experience. Enhanced locker room amenities, onsite parking, and elevated food and beverage options support visitors and meeting-goers alike, while its arrival as the future home of the United States Hockey League’s (USHL) Chicago Steel positions the arena as a leading destination for elite hockey.
- Elevated Hospitality Locations: Expanded hospitality areas bring chef-driven dining, comfortable gathering spaces, and enhanced social experiences together across the facility. Attendees can enjoy premium offerings at Rocky’s Table & Tap; quick-service favorites at Raise the Cup Cafe; and relaxed, flexible areas throughout the lounges—creating a welcoming environment that supports everything from casual meetups to all-day gatherings.
- Patio: Set against striking views of the Chicago skyline with a direct sightline to the future 1901 Project campus, this open-air patio serves as one of the Blackhawk Ice Center’s most vibrant community spaces. Accommodating up to 150 guests, the patio is designed for versatility—welcoming everything from casual neighborhood meetups and watch parties to corporate gatherings and team celebrations. Comfortable furnishings, atmospheric lighting, and proximity to dining options makes this a dynamic, inclusive environment that extends the Blackhawks Ice Center experience well beyond the ice.
- Second Floor Events: A versatile, premium event space offering flexible configurations for private rentals year-round. Designed to pair seamlessly with the facility’s chef-driven food and beverage programs—including the option to incorporate spaces such as Rocky’s Table & Tap or the patio—this area provides an elevated setting for gatherings of all kinds at Blackhawk Ice Center.
- Ice-Level Takeovers: For large-scale events, one rink can be fully covered with durable flooring to create up to 17,000 square feet of open, customizable space—ideal for conferences, trade shows, corporate activations, community festivals, or sporting events, including ball hockey and futsal. This space hosts up to 400 attendees, offering an expansive backdrop that transforms the facility into a true multipurpose event venue.
Additionally, Fifth Third Bank, a partner since the facility’s opening in 2017, continues its role as presenting sponsor of Blackhawks Ice Center. As part of the renewed partnership, Fifth Third Bank will appear on the Blackhawks’ practice jerseys and serve as the official sponsor of Every Shift, the team’s behind-the-scenes documentary series.
“The Blackhawks Ice Center presented by Fifth Third Bank name reflects the strength and evolution of our partnership,” says Mark Heckler, regional president at Fifth Third Bank. “We’re proud to continue working alongside the Blackhawks to support programs that strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunities, and bring Chicagoans together.”
