Hotels for Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics

A midweek NBA night in late December, sitting right in the stretch between Christmas and New Year when a lot of fans are off work and travelling with family. Tip-off is early evening, so the day still has room for a walk around beforehand and a late dinner after. Expect the usual regular-season buzz rather than a marquee showdown, with the crowd skewing toward locals and out-of-towners making a short winter trip of it. Arena food, team chants and a scoreboard packed with in-game promotions make up most of the entertainment beyond the game itself.

Home to both the Bulls and the Blackhawks, the United Center on Chicago's Near West Side is one of the busiest arenas in the United States, also hosting the biggest concerts. The surrounding area is a mix of residential streets and sports bars, with downtown's dining and nightlife a short ride away.

Buses and nearby transit link into the Loop. Booking a room downtown or nearby lets you reach the arena easily by rideshare or transit and enjoy the city once the event ends.