Blackhawks creating a true hockey destination with practice rink expansion

The Chicago Blackhawks are celebrating the team's centennial celebration this season, and while the milestone offers the perfect opportunity to look back—management is not ignoring the future.

In June, the Chicago Blackhawks released renderings of an expansion to the team's practice rink, Fifth Third Arena. Located within walking distance of the United Center, the Blackhawks are building a true hockey destination on the West Side of Chicago.

The Blackhawks are creating a premier hockey city in Chicago.

Team officials estimated the new arena would welcome more than a million and a half guests a year. The arena will house a 2,000 spectator rink with "Championship Area" where the Chicago Steel are expected to play. The USHL team was acquired by Wirtz Corporation in 2023.

Additionally, the Blackhawks plan to host the team's Hall of Fame within Fifth Third Arena. Centennial Hall will open this season to showcase "the franchise's legacy through historic displays that connect fans of all ages with the team's story."

The Hall of Fame could become the perfect stop for fans before traveling to the United Center on game day, and with the exhibit being located in the team's practice facility it will be more accessable to fans outside of game day.

The expansion will also include a patio space to take in the Chicago skyline, multiple lounges and "Rocky's Bar" a tribute bar to the Blackhawks' late chairman Rocky Wirtz.

The Blackhawks' Fifth Third Arena expansion is part of a wider project by the Blackhawks and Bulls. The Reinsdorf and Wirtz families plan to transform the area around the United Center into a premier destination location through a $7 billion private investment.

The 1901 Project, named after the United Center's address, will transform the 55 acres around the Blackhawks and Bulls stadium into a mix of residential, entertainment, retail and hotel spaces.

Through this project, the Wirtz and Reinsdorf families are adding to the fan game day experience, and hopefully that will culminate in many championship watch parties into late May and early June for the Blackhawks

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