Lenovo Center

If you're looking for the epicenter of sporting passion in North Carolina, your attention will invariably be drawn to PNC Arena. Located in the dynamic city of Raleigh, this modern indoor venue is rightfully considered one of the premier entertainment hubs the USA is proud of. This multi-purpose facility hosts millions of guests annually, offering them the highest level of comfort and an unforgettable atmosphere of grand events.

Above all, the venue is famous as the "home" of the legendary NHL hockey club, the Carolina Hurricanes. The arena's capacity is impressive: during hockey battles, the stands are ready to welcome 18,680 spectators, and for basketball games, this number increases to nearly 20,000. The building's architecture and well-thought-out interior space make it an ideal venue not only for sports but also for performances by world-class stars.

Inside, guests will find not just an ice rink or court, but also a developed infrastructure, including a huge panoramic restaurant and numerous themed areas. Thanks to its scale and high-tech features, the complex has become a symbol of the city's modern image and a must-visit spot for any tourist wanting to experience true American drive.

For information on upcoming events, ticket bookings, or to contact the complex management, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to be here is, undoubtedly, world-class hockey. Cheering for the Carolina Hurricanes surrounded by thousands of fans is an experience that keeps you energized for a long time. The roar of the stands, spectacular light shows before the game, and the chance to see NHL stars live make every visit unique. Additionally, the arena often hosts exciting college basketball tournaments that rival professional leagues in intensity.

If sports aren't your thing, it's worth visiting for the large-scale concerts. Thanks to its excellent acoustics, PNC Arena serves as the primary venue for touring international pop and rock stars. Beyond shows, it hosts exhibitions, family performances like ice shows, and major corporate events. Between events, guests can visit official team stores with exclusive merchandise or relax in one of the VIP suites.

For foodies, there are various food courts and a full-service restaurant where you can dine with a view of the arena. For the most dedicated fans, autograph sessions and fan zone visits are periodically organized, allowing you to get even closer to the world of professional sports.

Reaching this sporting giant, located at 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, is quite simple. The most convenient and popular method among locals and tourists is by private car or taxi. The drive from the city center takes very little time, and upon arrival, you'll find a massive parking area capable of holding thousands of cars.

If you prefer public transport, look into the city's bus routes. On the days of particularly large games or concerts, additional shuttles are often launched, running between key points in the city and the arena. It is recommended to check the transport schedule in advance, as it can vary depending on the event's start time.

For those staying in nearby hotels, many establishments offer their guests a private shuttle service. This eliminates the need to find a parking spot and allows you to fully focus on the upcoming spectacle.

The history of this grand structure began in 1997, when the first stone was laid. The official opening took place in the fall of 1999, and since then, the venue has become the true heart of the state for all sports fans. It was designed by the renowned architectural firm Odell Associates, and the total construction cost was an impressive $158 million.

It is interesting to trace the arena's name changes, which reflect its commercial history. Originally, it was known as the Raleigh Entertainment & Sports Arena. Later, from 2002 to 2012, it was called the RBC Center, before receiving its most recognizable name—PNC Arena. Recently, in 2024, the complex was renamed the Lenovo Center, though for many loyal fans, it is still strongly associated with the PNC brand.

Over the years, the arena has witnessed many triumphs, including major Stanley Cup final games. It was designed with what were then the most modern engineering solutions, allowing it to remain relevant and high-tech even a quarter-century after its opening. Today, it is not just a stadium, but a historically significant site for the entire North Carolina sporting community.

When planning a visit to PNC Arena, aim for an average duration of 3–4 hours. This is the standard time for most hockey games or music concerts. It is recommended to arrive early—about an hour before the start—to pass through security and find your seat without rushing.

If you want to complement your evening with dinner at the local 500-seat restaurant or plan to browse the range of Hurricanes souvenir shops, it's best to allow an additional 1–2 hours in your schedule. This way, a full visit to the arena makes for a perfect entire evening plan.

The complex's operating hours are directly tied to the schedule of planned events. On game or concert days, doors usually open to visitors 1–2 hours before the official program starts to avoid queues at the entrance.

Since there are no fixed working hours throughout the week, we strongly recommend checking the schedule on the official website before your trip. The management also suggests confirming the ticket office opening times if you plan to purchase tickets on-site.

Attending a sporting event or concert can be perfectly combined with recreation in the surrounding area. The neighborhood around the arena offers many options for active pastimes, especially if you are traveling with family or a large group of friends.

Within a radius of a few kilometers, you'll find modern entertainment parks and sports centers where you can have fun before the main event begins. Below is a list of interesting places nearby: