Blackhawks Ice Center opens completed expansion

The newly expanded facility features two new ice rinks, premium spaces, and a tribute to the franchise's 100-year legacy.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Chicago Blackhawks have announced the official opening of the Blackhawks Ice Center, formerly known as the Fifth-Third Arena, which has undergone a major expansion at 1801 W. Jackson. The expansion brings two new ice rinks, an elevated collection of premium spaces, and an immersive tribute to the franchise's 100-year history.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks Ice Center expansion represents the team's commitment to growing the game of hockey in the Midwest, providing a state-of-the-art facility for athletes, fans, and the broader Chicago community to engage with the sport.

The details

The expansion, designed by Generator Studio, includes the new USG Arena which can seat up to 2,000 spectators and features NHL-quality amenities. Centennial Hall is an interactive museum celebrating the Blackhawks' 100-year legacy. The facility also includes expanded hospitality areas with new dining options and flexible gathering spaces.

  • The Blackhawks Ice Center officially opened on March 11, 2026.
  • The Blackhawks Hall of Fame will launch at Centennial Hall in April 2026.

The players

Danny Wirtz

Chairman and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks.

Generator Studio

The architectural firm that designed the Blackhawks Ice Center expansion.

McHugh Construction

The general contractor for the Blackhawks Ice Center expansion project.

United States Hockey League (USHL)

The junior ice hockey league whose Chicago Steel team will call the new USG Arena home.

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What they’re saying

“From the beginning, our goal has been to create a facility that not only serves our Blackhawks players but also opens doors for the next generation and the broader Chicago community. Blackhawks Ice Center represents the future of hockey in the Midwest – a place where innovation meets tradition and where our vision for growing the game comes to life.”

— Danny Wirtz, Chairman and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks (urbanize.city)

What’s next

The Blackhawks Hall of Fame will launch at Centennial Hall in April 2026, providing an additional attraction for visitors to the expanded Blackhawks Ice Center.

The takeaway

The Blackhawks Ice Center expansion demonstrates the team's commitment to investing in the future of hockey in Chicago, creating a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a hub for athletes, fans, and the broader community to engage with the sport for years to come.