The Carolina Hurricanes, affectionately known as the Canes, are a professional ice hockey team situated in Raleigh, North Carolina, competing in the National Hockey League (NHL) as members of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference. Originating in 1971 as the New England Whalers within the World Hockey Association (WHA), the franchise quickly found success, clinching the Eastern Division title in the WHA's inaugural three seasons and securing the Avco World Trophy in 1973. Upon the NHL-WHA merger in 1979, they became the Hartford Whalers.
However, limited markability coupled with the smallest home arena (Hartford Civic Center) at the time contributed to its off-ice probelms alongside spike in players salaries. This left former owner Peter Karmanos with no choice but relocated the team elseware. Relocating to North Carolina in 1997, they rebranded as the Hurricanes. Since then, they have added six divison titles, two conference chmapionships and a sole Stanley Cup to their trophy cabinet. Moreover, their Stanley Cup victory in 2006 stands as the first and only major professional championship of the state of North Carolina as of 2022-23.
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What is the name of the Carolina Hurricanes arena?
The Carolina Hurricanes play their home games at Lenovo Center, formerly known as Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is located at 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607. Moreover, it has been the home of the Carolina Hurricanes since it opened in 1999. Formerly known as the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena and later as the RBC Center, it was renamed PNC Arena in 2011 and again the name of the arena changed to Lenovo Center in 2024. Notably, the arena has a seating capacity of 18,680 for hockey games and also serves as the home venue for the North Carolina State basketball team. Despite being nearly 20 years old, Lenovo Center remains a modern facility for ice hockey, offering a comfortable viewing experience with cushioned seats and cup holders. The arena features suites located at the top of the lower and club levels, as well as a four-sided center-hung video board above the center ice.
Furthermore, the Lenovo Center offers a wide selection of food and beverage choices, though prices can be on the higher side. The venue is easily accessible by car, located near I-40 and I-440 in West Raleigh, with ample parking available onsite. While there may be limited dining options within walking distance, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the NC Museum of Art and Park, the North Carolina State Capitol building, and downtown Raleigh.
Carolina Hurricanes Stadium History
The history of the Carolina Hurricanes' stadium, now known as Lenovo Center, dates back to its construction in 1997-1999. The venue was initially named the Entertainment and Sports Arena when it opened its doors in 1999. It has served as the home of the Hurricanes since their relocation from Hartford, Connecticut, to Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1997.
The construction of the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena (ESA), later renamed the RBC Center and then Lenovo Center, began in 1997 and was completed in 1999. The project had an estimated cost of $158 million, with funding primarily sourced from public financing, including a hotel and restaurant tax. The North Carolina State University Trustees approved plans for the arena in 1989, envisioning it as a replacement for Reynolds Coliseum. The Centennial Authority, established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1995, oversaw the project's development and financing, which also included contributions from the university and local sources. The Hurricanes, who relocated from Hartford, Connecticut, as part of the project, agreed to contribute $60 million to the construction costs, with the state of North Carolina providing an additional $18 million. Following completion, the arena served as the home venue for the Carolina Hurricanes and underwent subsequent name changes due to corporate sponsorship agreements, ultimately becoming PNC Arena in 2012.
PNC Arena home to the Carolina Hurricanes, has been renamed "Lenovo Center" in 2024 as part of a new naming rights deal between Lenovo and the team. This agreement lasts through the 2033-34 NHL season, reflecting Lenovo's long-standing partnership with the Hurricanes. The name change accompanies technological upgrades within the arena and plans for a $1 billion entertainment district nearby, featuring retail, offices, and residential spaces. This transformation aims to create a major sports and entertainment hub in Raleigh.
Carolina Hurricanes Stadium Capacity
The capacity of Lenovo Center is 18,680 for hockey games. Lenovo Center, serving as the venue for various events including ice hockey, basketball, and concerts, boasts a versatile capacity: 18,700 for ice hockey, 19,500 for basketball, and accommodating up to 21,000 attendees for concerts.
The record attendance for ice hockey stands at 19,513 during a match between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Boston Bruins on May 14, 2022. For basketball, the highest attendance recorded was 19,722 during a game between NC State and Duke on January 11, 2015. During concerts, the arena reached a peak attendance of 20,052 on January 28, 2019, during a performance by Metallica. Spanning 700,000 square feet (65,000 square meters), the arena features a multi-surface playing field and is equipped with a substantial 4,000 square feet (370 square meters) scoreboard.
Carolina Hurricanes Stadium Seating Chart
The Lenovo Center offers a variety of seating options tailored to different preferences and needs. With a capacity of 18,700 for ice hockey, 19,500 for basketball, and up to 21,000 for concerts, the arena provides an immersive experience for attendees.
Premium seating options include club-level amenities such as in-seat service, access to exclusive lounges, and prime views of the action. The Hurricanes' bench is situated in front of section 105, with the visitors' bench opposite in front of section 103. For those seeking the best views of the game, sections 103-105 and 118 are highly recommended, preferably situated at least 10-15 rows from the ice. The venue also offers handicapped and ADA seating options, with accessible rows located at the top of most sections.
The following is the seating arrangement created for the fans in the Lenovo Center for the games:
What is the parking cost at Carolina Hurricanes Stadium?
The parking cost at the Carolina Hurricanes Stadium, located at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, NC, varies depending on the event. Typically, parking prices range from $36 to $72 for Carolina Hurricanes games.
The following is the parking map of the Lenovo Center:
Carolina Hurricanes Stadium Notable Events
The Lenovo Center has been a bustling venue for various events beyond hockey and college basketball. It has welcomed iconic musicians like Prince, Bruce Springsteen, and Taylor Swift, along with hosting diverse acts such as Sesame Street Live and Monster Jam. Notable sports events include the CIAA men's basketball tournament and NCAA Division I basketball tournaments. The arena holds a record attendance of 20,052 for Metallica's WorldWired Tour in 2019 and hosted the Apex Legends Global Series Championship in 2022.
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FAQ's On Carolina Hurricanes Stadium
A. The Carolina Hurricanes play their home games at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.
A. The construction of Lenovo Center began in 1997 and was completed in 1999, with an estimated cost of $158 million, primarily funded through public financing.
A. Lenovo Center has a seating capacity of 18,680 for hockey games, 19,500 for basketball games, and up to 21,000 for concerts.
Q. Parking prices at Lenovo Center typically range from $36 to $72 for Carolina Hurricanes Parking, depending on the event.
