Pnc Arena

PNC Arena (Lenovo Center): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Raleigh Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, PNC Arena—recently rebranded as Lenovo Center—is a premier venue for sports, entertainment, and cultural events. Since opening its doors in 1999, the arena has been central to Raleigh’s dynamic community, serving as home to the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, the NC State Wolfpack basketball team, and hosting world-class concerts, family shows, and special events. With seating for more than 19,000 spectators for sports and up to 21,000 for concerts, Lenovo Center offers a blend of modern design, advanced technology, and wide-ranging amenities that ensure a memorable experience for every guest.

This detailed guide provides essential information about visiting hours, ticketing, venue features, accessibility, and surrounding attractions. It also explores the ongoing $300 million renovation as part of the Raleigh Sports and Entertainment District—an ambitious project set to enhance facilities and elevate the fan experience even further. Whether you’re planning to attend a thrilling hockey game, a major concert, or simply want to explore Raleigh’s rich historical sites, this guide covers everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable visit. (CSP Inc. Guide, Lenovo Center Events, The Stadiums Guide)

Historical Overview
Significance in Sports and Entertainment
Architectural Highlights & Amenities
Essential Visitor Information
Facilities and Guest Services
Renovations and Future Developments
Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions & Raleigh Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Visuals and Interactive Media
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Overview

Origins and Evolution

PNC Arena, originally the Raleigh Entertainment & Sports Arena, broke ground in July 1997 and opened in October 1999, the result of a $158 million partnership among local government and private stakeholders. It was renamed RBC Center in 2002, then PNC Arena in 2012 following corporate acquisitions, and is now transitioning to Lenovo Center as of 2024. Each rebranding marks Raleigh’s ongoing economic growth and the arena’s enduring importance as a regional hub.

Significance in Sports and Entertainment

Carolina Hurricanes (NHL): Since relocating to Raleigh in 1997, the Hurricanes have provided unforgettable moments—including their 2005–2006 Stanley Cup championship—cementing the arena’s reputation for electric atmospheres and passionate fan traditions like tailgating.
NC State Wolfpack Basketball: As home court for the men’s basketball team, Lenovo Center is a focal point of ACC basketball, regularly hosting NCAA tournament games.
Concerts & Special Events: The arena attracts top-tier artists and productions—from Elton John and Taylor Swift to Monster Jam and Disney on Ice—thanks to its versatile design and acoustics.

(CSP Inc. Guide, Lenovo Center Events)

Architectural Highlights & Amenities

Capacity: Over 19,000 for sports, up to 21,000 for concerts.
Seating: Three-tiered bowl with general, club level, and 66 luxury suites. All levels feature ADA-compliant accessible seating.
Design: Odell Associates’ modernist architecture, with a sweeping glass façade and atrium entrance.
Technology: High-definition scoreboard (installed 2019), state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and robust Wi-Fi coverage.
Premium Spaces: Club lounges, VIP suites, and private hospitality areas.

(Lenovo Center Info)

Essential Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Event Days: Doors open 60–90 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Non-Event Days: Public access is limited; guided tours may be available by appointment.
Check the Lenovo Center event calendar for specific hours and event details.

Ticketing

Purchase Options:
- Official Lenovo Center Website
- Ticketmaster
- Verified resale sites (TicketsPNCArena.com)
Mobile Ticketing: Most events use mobile tickets; download before arrival.
Season Tickets: Available for Hurricanes and NC State basketball.

Guided Tours

Not regularly available, but special group tours may be scheduled during select periods. Check the official website or follow on social media for announcements.

Accessibility

Fully ADA-compliant seating and entrances on all levels.
Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout.
Sensory-inclusive spaces and services in partnership with KultureCity.
Assistive listening devices and service animal accommodations.

Food & Beverage

50+ outlets offer stadium classics and North Carolina specialties (e.g., BBQ, Shake Shack, PDQ).
Marketplace for grab-and-go snacks; Club Restaurant for upscale dining.
Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available.
Alcoholic beverages on tap, including local craft beers.

Facilities and Guest Services

Parking: 8,000+ spaces (general, VIP, accessible). Early arrival advised for tailgating or major events.
Public Transit: Served by GoRaleigh and GoTriangle buses.
Merchandise: Team store and event-specific memorabilia on multiple concourses.
Security: Walk-through metal detectors and clear bag policy (bags no larger than 12”x6”x12”).
Family Amenities: Family restrooms, companion seating, and lost & found services.
Technology: Free Wi-Fi and guest assistance desks throughout.

(The Stadiums Guide, The Tourist Checklist)

Renovations and Future Developments

Lenovo Center Transformation (2025–2027)

A $300 million renovation is underway, part of the broader Raleigh Sports and Entertainment District project. Planned improvements include:

Expanded south entrance and new indoor/outdoor plazas
Enhanced VIP lounges, club spaces, and premium seating
Upgraded culinary options emphasizing local flavors
Enlarged team store and expanded retail
Wider concourses and improved crowd flow
Technology upgrades: digital signage, Wi-Fi, AV systems
Potential sportsbook addition (pending approval)
Music venue, hotels, and mixed-use developments in adjacent district

These projects are designed to keep the arena operational throughout construction and to further embed Lenovo Center as a top-tier destination in the Southeast.

(Lenovo Center Info)

Visitor Tips

Arrive early to enjoy tailgating, secure parking, and avoid last-minute congestion.
Purchase tickets in advance—high-demand events often sell out quickly.
Check seat views on resources like RateYourSeats.com before booking.
Use public transit to avoid traffic and parking delays.
Review security policies and bag restrictions ahead of arrival.
Sample local specialties like North Carolina BBQ and craft beers.
Explore nearby attractions before or after your event.

Nearby Attractions & Raleigh Historical Sites

North Carolina State Fairgrounds: Annual fair and year-round events.
Carter-Finley Stadium: NC State football, directly adjacent.
Downtown Raleigh: 7–8 miles away, with museums, restaurants, and nightlife.
North Carolina Museum of History: State heritage exhibits.
Mordecai Historic Park: 19th-century home and park.
Historic Oakwood: Neighborhood of preserved Victorian-era homes.
Nearby Dining: Backyard Bistro, Spring Rolls, Honest Abe’s Kitchen & Bar.

Hotels within a mile include Four Points by Sheraton Raleigh Arena, Ramada by Wyndham Raleigh, and Hyatt Place Raleigh Cary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Lenovo Center’s visiting hours?
A: Doors open 60–90 minutes before events. Non-event access is limited; check the official website for updates.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Use the Lenovo Center website, Ticketmaster, or verified resellers.

Q: Is the arena wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes—ADA-compliant seating, accessible restrooms, elevators, and companion seating.

Q: Can I bring outside food or professional cameras?
A: No, except for medical needs or infants. Professional cameras are prohibited.

Q: Is tailgating allowed?
A: Yes, especially before Carolina Hurricanes games, starting three hours before events.

Q: What parking options are available?
A: Over 8,000 spaces, including accessible, unpaved, and VIP lots.

Visuals and Interactive Media

Official venue map and virtual tour
Image gallery (Exterior views, game nights, accessible seating)
Alt text examples: “Exterior view of Lenovo Center in Raleigh, NC with event banners,” “Carolina Hurricanes game night at Lenovo Center,” “Accessible seating area at Lenovo Center with companion seats.”

Conclusion

Lenovo Center (formerly PNC Arena) stands at the forefront of Raleigh’s sports, entertainment, and cultural life. Its ongoing transformation ensures that future visitors will enjoy even greater amenities, comfort, and excitement. As you plan your visit, leverage official resources for current event details, ticketing, and accessibility information. Explore the surrounding Raleigh area to enrich your trip with local history and Southern hospitality.

Stay connected by following Lenovo Center on social media and downloading the Audiala app for exclusive updates, event alerts, and special offers. Make your next outing to Raleigh’s Lenovo Center truly unforgettable!