Where to Park for Cubs Games: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Wrigley Field

The 2016 Chicago Cubs team is bringing something unfamiliar to the city’s north side- winning. The team is currently leading every division of the National League and American League. After last season’s wild card  run, Wrigleyville is ready to go all the way. If you’re planning a visit to watch history being made at Wrigley Field, we have some advice.

How do I get there?

If you’re staying downtown, the easiest way is to take the Red Line and get off at the Addison stop. The next best option would be to take a cab or Uber, so you don’t have to worry about parking. If you’re set on driving, there are a few different parking options. The Cubs operate a few lots, one of which is free (at 3900 N. Rockwell St.)  and includes a shuttle to and from the field.  There are homeowners and public garages that will rent you a spot for the day, which can be found and paid for on sites like SpotHero.

What time should I get there?

Gates open two hours before the start time; it’s easy to watch the visiting team take batting practice, but you have to get in right away to catch the Cubs’ batting practice. In order to get the true Wrigley experience, arrive a few hours early and walk the lively neighborhood. Game day is always bustling along Clark and Sheffield, with many bars and restaurants spilling out onto patios. Try Goose Island for some locally brewed craft beer, Vines on Clark for a sunny patio experience, or Old Crow for some great barbecue. Plan on actually being inside the park at lease 20 minutes before game time, so you can find your seat, use the restroom, and grab a beer.

Where should we sit?

It’s nearly impossible to go wrong with a seat in Wrigley Field. The bleachers provide a unique, sweeping view of Wrigley Field and are almost guaranteed to be rowdy. The bleacher seats are general admission, so arrive early.  Some sections in the “Terrace” section do have obstructed views, so always double check seat numbers before purchasing.The featured photo for this post is from section 242, which was more affordable than the bleachers on a recent Sunday and kept us in the sun all afternoon.

What can I bring in?

Security will check your bag, but as long as your purse or bag is a reasonable size, you’ll be fine (the size limit is 16 x 16 x 8). Visitors aren’t allowed to bring in any alcohol or coolers, although sealed plastic bottles of water and soft drinks are allowed. There are often vendors selling bags of peanuts outside the stadium for lower prices than inside.

What’s best to eat and drink at the game?

It wouldn’t be a professional sports game without $8 Bud Lites, but vendors also sell Goose Island and craft beer at Wrigley. Pro tip: don’t forget to bring cash to the game- it is always easier to buy beer from the comfort of your own seat, rather than waiting in a long line. Skip the food from the concession stands and find a hot dog cart. The famous Hot Doug’s now serves specialty sausages in the bleachers, including a curry bratwurst and a spicy polish sausage with Goose Island beer mustard and crispy fried onions. Gilbert’s Grill Cart is an amazing new addition in 2016, bringing three craft sausages to the main concourse. Choose between chicken sausage options topped with pineapple salsa and crushed potato chips or tomatoes, mozzarella and balsamic glaze. The Beef and Cheddar is topped with macaroni-and-cheese, caramelized onions, bacon, and barbecue sauce.

If you have any other questions about Wrigley Field, please share them in the comments below. Go Cubs Go!