
5
"Opened August 18, 1994 with WWF SummerSlam, this Near West Side arena has spent three decades hosting hundreds of concerts, two Democratic National Conventions and the highs and lows of the Chicago Blackhawks and Bulls. Marking its 30th birthday has brought nostalgia — especially for the franchise-loving ‘90s crowd — but current fan excitement is muted amid tepid expectations and a sluggish rollout of the teams’ new TV home. Concessions have been a focus: upper-level fans get only small additions (a double Chicago dog available in Sections 104, 222, 305 and 322), while more notable new items and vendor tweaks are aimed at lower levels. Stadium operators are experimenting with midseason novelties (including a clear 24-ounce souvenir shaped like a hockey stick) and continuing partnerships with local and regional restaurants to boost the game-day experience." - Ashok Selvam