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Wrigley Field Tours

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Wrigley Field Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Wrigley Field Tours

Review Highlights

“ Loved this tour getting to stand next to the iconic ivy, touring the stadium, press box , locker room and dugout. ” in 45 reviews

“ If you do the tour when Cubs aren't in town, they will let you also see the dugout and players locker rooms. ” in 45 reviews

“ At each spot he shared so many fun facts, historical items, and honestly some funny stories about the stadium . ” in 24 reviews

Location & Hours

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1060 W Addison St

Chicago, IL 60613

Seminary Ave & Clark St

Lakeview, Wrigleyville

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Is there a place to park? And if so, how much? Thanks!

There is parking on quite a few streets within walking distance. They are meters on the street. There are also garages around the area, price depends on time of day/game day. I think we paid $13 to park in the garage and was there for about 4-5… more

Do they have tours in the off season?

Yes they do! Rain or shine they will have them. Mostly on weekends for off-season tours.

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Overall rating

111 reviews

My sister and I toured the stadium on our last trip to Chicago. It was such a cool experience especially if you are a baseball fan! It's $30 per person and free for children under 2 y/o. If you go on a non-game day you will get to see a lot more. It was snowing this day so there was only 5 of us on the tour. Being in a smaller group was more enjoyable because we didn't have to wait on a lot of people. Our tour guide was very funny and knowledgeable about all of the history. Would definitely recommend.

See all photos from Angela V. for Wrigley Field Tours

My Mom and I had such a great tour with Larry! He greeted us right as we got in line and made sure we had a comfortable experience (due to some mobility constraints). It felt like a tour personalized just for the two of us. Larry is friendly, incredibly informative, gracious and kind. We were blown away. The entire staff was spot on. Cory in the visitor locker room was also great and chatted with us for a few minutes about his experiences working at Wrigley Field. It was a huge highlight of my Mom's visit. Thank you Larry!

I don't have much to say. What a thrill, to tour a ballpark around since 1914. The docent was from another era, an Irishman who had witnessed the bleacher bums. He knew all about his Cubbies. Everyone here was in awe, appreciating the history. God bless Chicago and these Cubs.

See all photos from David O. for Wrigley Field Tours

Very cool experience if you're a cubs or baseball fan! Got to see a lot and hear a lot of history. Our tour guide, Tom, was the best!

Wrigley field from press box

This is an awesome tour of a great and historic American baseball venue.  Having been a Cubs fan for virtually all of my life, it was delightful to finally take the time to do a formal tour here.  Besides enjoying a walk to various scenic points around the park on a beautiful day and when it was empty, and hearing some of Wrigley Field's history, I most enjoyed the humorous, interesting, and entertaining stories and anecdotes from our guide Cooper, many to most of which I had never heard.  You'll have to go on the tour yourself to hear the stories.  Our comfortably sized group of 22 visited lecture points in the lower deck, upper deck, and bleachers, got onto the field in the right field corner, and into the Cubs dugout. Why 4 stars and not 5 then for the tour?  My main gripe and feedback, for which I docked a star and was thinking even a 2 star hit, was that the advertised pricing for the tour is ridiculously misleading.  The "$30" tour went to $38.95 upon online checkout, and in the end I found that pretty disgusting and borderline false advertising.  It's not like the Cubs are dealing with a third party for tickets like a StubHub or Ticketmaster, or a secondary ticket market.  Advertise what it will cost (duh!) and like most consumers I'll accept tax, but not 30% in total adders!  Even StubHub now shows ticket prices "with estimated fees" (and probably because their consumers demanded it as they felt the same way I did) and though they also charge a ridiculous ~30% fee. Upon online checkout, you will see on your $30 tour ticket: Amusement tax:  $2.70 Bullshit per-ticket fee:  $2.25 Bullshit order processing fee:  $4.00 I did learn at the box office that you will save the $4 "processing" fee if you buy at the box office on the day of the tour, but you're taking a chance of a sold-out tour by not booking in advance.  I would have given a 5 star Yelp rating and still went if they just said $39 for the tour, period. Anyway, rant over.  If you're any sort of a Chicago sports or history fan, I would still highly recommend this entertaining, interesting, and informative tour!

See all photos from Howard L. for Wrigley Field Tours

What a fun and interesting tour! As a lifelong baseball fan, I learned so many interesting facts from our fantastic tour guide Jim who was full of info and funny quips as we visited all sorts of cool places at Wrigley Field like the bleachers where the "bleacher bums" hang out, the visiting teams' locker room, the Cubs' dugout and a skybox! You even go down on the right corner of the field to see the Ivy. Just tons of places to take pictures as you learn unexpected things. Thanks, Jim, for a truly amazing tour! Truly unforgettable for this fan of America's favorite pastime!!

On the right field corner next to the ivy!

A view of the field from the boxed seat area.

This is probably one of the best stadium tours I have ever been on and I am not a cubs fan. Now this tour began at the historic entrance of the stadium beneath the giant marquee. This was during the off season so all the bathrooms are closed. Meaning use the McDonald's or Taco Bell's one across the street prior to the start of the tour. Arrive early but also they don't let you inside the stadium until 5 minutes prior. Once you're inside they will check your tickets and have you go through a traditional security checkpoint. Now my tour started by my guide taking us near the 3rd foul line and he sat us down. He then spoke for about 15-20 minutes about the history of the 2nd oldest ballpark in mlb. He shared how much it's grown and everything. We then walked over the bleachers followed by going into the visitor's bullpen. At each spot he shared so many fun facts, historical items, and honestly some funny stories about the stadium. From there we did the walk up to the visitor clubhouse where it was awesome to be in the same room that so many people have been. We also got to see the press box and finished in the dugout on the field. Truly and incredible 90 minute tour. It was incredible because of the fact we got to see the stadium and learn it's rich history too. Highly recommend this tour to everyone!

Lifelong Cubs fan that lives in Houston, and I've never taken the tour at Wrigley in my many visits to the Second City. I finally took care of this last month, and I'm so glad I did! Cooper was a fantastic guide, full of knowledge and plenty of jokes. The price is incredibly reasonable and provides a good bang for your buck. Great views from the press box and it's so awesome to stand in the Cubs dugout to see what all the great Cubs have seen over the years. I can't wait to come back in the summer/fall to experience the ivy!

I had an issue with my tickets and I was able to call in and get it all sorted out. Matt helped me out and was incredible! Such an easy fix! I appreciated his help. Thank you!

One of the best tours I've been on. It's great to be able to walk thru a stadium that some of the greats have played in such as the Babe, MJ, etc. We had beautiful views from the press box, the field level to see the ivy on the outfield wall (but don't touch it), the dugout, etc. I can only compare this to Fenway and they're both at the top of my list. Wish I could've been to the old Yankee stadium before it was gone.

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Chicago Cubs Wrigley Field Tours

1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613

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Tour Wrigley Field

Ivy in the outfield

Tour of Wrigley Field. Stroll through the home of the Chicago Cubs and get the chance to see what happens behind the scenes of the Friendly Confines.

All stops and locations are subject to availability. Specific tour routes are established each day based on events and activities in the ballpark.

Where :  1060 W. Addison, 773-388-8270.  This is a 75-90 minute guided tour. Tours are outdoor walking tours (approximately 1 mile) conducted in rain or shine. Please dress accordingly. Tickets here .

Non-gameday and Gameday Tour

Individuals: $30 (plus tax) and Children under 2 years old: FREE

Non-gameday Ivy Tours

Individuals: $35 (plus tax) and Children under 2 years old: FREE

Please note all tour stops and locations are subject to availability.

Reminder: Wrigley Field is an active construction site. Please dress and plan accordingly. Specific tour routes are established each day based on events and activities in the ballpark.

WHAT YOU WILL SEE ON A DAILY TOUR CHECK WEBSITE FOR COVID CHANGES

NON-GAMEDAY TOURS:

• Seating bowl
• Budweiser Bleachers
• Visitors’ clubhouse
• Cubs’ dugout

All stops and locations are subject to availability. Reminder: Wrigley Field is an active construction site. Please dress and plan accordingly. Specific tour routes are established each day based on events and activities in the ballpark.

GAMEDAY TOURS:

• Jim Beam Patio

Gameday Tours will NOT visit the clubhouses, but will instead enter the ballpark before gates open to experience the excitement of a gameday at Wrigley Field.

NON-GAMEDAY IVY TOURS:

In addition to visiting the seating bowl, press box, Budweiser Bleachers, visitors’ clubhouse and the Cubs’ dugout, fans on an Ivy Tour will have the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.

Please note Ivy Tour dates are only available from May through September.

Tour Wrigley Field  – Related

Tour Soldier Field $15

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Historic Wrigley Field Stadium Tour, Home of the Chicago Cubs!

A Wrigley Field Stadium tour is such a wonderful experience for baseball lovers! If you are a fan, check out this tour of Chicago Cubs baseball stadium the next time you are in the Windy City.

Wrigley Field Stadium Tour

Our family trip to Chicago this summer was nothing short of amazing! The weather was great, we found tons of things to do, and bonded as a family like no other. We shared some fun things to do with your family in Chicago , and now it’s a MUST that we share our awesome tour of Wrigley Field , the home of the Chicago Cubs!

Our tour of the Chicago Cubs stadium!

My son is a huge baseball fan, he has been playing since he was 4 years old and has a goal of visiting every single MLB stadium. It was a great opportunity to get another stadium notch under our belts while we were in Chicago, check out some photos from our tour of Wrigley Field.

Photos of the Cubs baseball stadium

This is one of the famous statues out in front of Wrigley Field. I don’t remember who this one is, the tour guide told us but my memory is crap.

When you arrive, you’ll split up into groups. There were about 4 groups of 50-ish people in each one, there were a lot of families interested (see the first picture, the line was insane)! This was our tour guide, he pretty much knew everything there is to know about Wrigley, the Cubs’ history, and all.

Inside Wrigley – Cubs stadium

When you take the Wrigley Field tour, you’ll get to walk through and go to the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, the Cubs’ clubhouse, the visitor’s clubhouse, Cub’s dugout, and the majestic field! On game days, no clubhouses dugouts, or press boxes will be available (we went on a game day). These two were eager to tour the stadium.

We got to walk the perimeter of the field, this was taken right behind home plate. The field was being prepped for the game that afternoon so we got to see some of the players warming up just as we were leaving!

This guy is listening intently to the tour guide. Did you know that Wrigley Field is over 100 years old?

Little sister was being a sticker collector…

Here’s a shot of all of us on the field during the tour. We could not go onto the field, but it was so neat to be out there. Fun times!

Is the Wrigley Field tour worth it?

If you’re a baseball lover, absolutely YES! The next time you’re in Chicago during baseball season, take the family to Wrigley Field for a tour. Baseball fans will love to see what goes on behind the scenes, where the Cubs have played for 99 years! If you’re visiting, you can actually take the train from the Downtown Chicago area to Wrigley Field as we did, take the RED line and get off at the Addison station.

Wrigley Field tour tickers – Home of the Chicago Cubs!

Tickets:  https://www.mlb.com/cubs/ballpark/tours

(Buy online to secure your spot, tickets may be sold out if you try buying when you arrive!)

1060 W. Addison Street Chicago, IL 60613 (773) 388-8270

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Wrigley Field Chicago – Tips and Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

Take me out to the ball game! The rush of catching a foul ball, that first sip of beer, and the charm of a hand turned scoreboard. Nothing beats the thrill of your first visit to Wrigley Field. Become part of the Chi-town baseball tradition when you secure Cubs games tickets.

Follow along to discover everything you need to know about Wrigley Field Chicago.

Inmesh yourself in the storied history of one of the United States’ most beloved baseball parks when you experience the excitement of day games and glimpse the famous ivy covered outfield walls.

Load up on Cubs news, plan your next Wrigley Field Christmas, or explore the Friendly Confines of the North Side of Chicago .

Whether you are searching for ‘hotels near wrigley field’ or are wondering if the left field bleachers are a great place to sit, we’ve covered it all.

Whatever your Wrigley Field fantasies, our guide will give you the 411 on this field of dreams.

Wrigley Field History

Ready to join your fellow bleacher bums and become part of Major League Baseball history? Sit tight, because Cubs Park contains a colorful heritage stretching back over a hundred years. Designed by architect Zacahry Taylor Davis, the stadium first opened in 1914 as Weeghman Park. It was game ready by April 23, 1914, at which point the original tenants, the Chicago Whales played the home opener.

The Whales would come in second in the Federal League rankings in 1914. This team would fold by 1915, and on April 20,1916 the Cubs would play their very first home game at Wrigley and triumph over the Cincinnati Reds. Located in the North Side community, Wrigley Field is the oldest park in the National league and the only remaining Federal League park.

Wrigley’s tenure as owner of the Cubs would end in 1981 when the Tribune Company purchased the club from the Wrigley family, ending the longest continuous operation of a franchise by the same family in one city. Since 2009, the Ricketts Family has owned 95% interest in the Cubs. Today, the park is a designated National Historic Landmark and considered a Chicago ‘must see.’

Wrigley Field Games

Chomping at the bit for the Cubs opening day? Snag a peek at the Chicago Cubs Schedule here , or combine your day of clutch hits and cracker jacks with one of the stadium’s famous Wrigley Field Tours .

Chicago Cubs Tickets

Batter up! From seats above home plate to optimal spots above center field, there are no bad views in the Friendly Confines. Snag a rooftop seat courtesy of a nearby building, or catch wind of all the Chicago Cubs news and gossip from die hard bleacher fans.

Related Post: Kids Activities Chicago – 17 Amazing and Fun Things to Do

Take a gander at the official Wrigley Field seating chart here , and decide for yourself what are the best seats at Wrigley Field. Once you’re ready to witness that famous red marquee for yourself, purchase your Chicago Cub tickets . From single day games to Summer Night Specials and group options, there are plenty of ways to join the Cub fandom.

Wrigley Field Parking

Beep Beep! America’s pastime should be about the thrill of the game, not the pursuit of a parking spot. Make sure you spend your time comparing baseball stats and chowing down on Chi-town dogs. Not trolling the streets for a space when you heed our Wrigley Field parking tips:

• The Chicago Cubs care about the environment and so should you! Driving to the game means encountering a ton of traffic, so the Cubs strongly encourage the use of public transportation for events at Wrigley Field.
• Wrigley Field guests can find easy transportation by using Metra Trains, Pace shuttle buses and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains.
• Additionally, rideshare options are also a convenient and economical way to arrive at the game.
• Still got your heart set on driving? The Cubs provide a variety of parking options  for all events at Wrigley Field. All of these lots are cashless and are easy in and easy out. Spots can also be booked in advance through SpotHero.
• For more parking questions and or concerns, fans can contact the services team at: 1-773-388-8270.

Wrigley Field Food

Popcorn, bratwurst, and cracker jacks, oh my! While the Wrigley Field concessions may be fairly standard, you can still find plenty of game day worthy snacks within the Friendly Confines. However, hungry patrons hankering for a more robust meal will discover a plethora of restaurants near Wrigley Field.

Indeed, in recent years the Wrigleyville neighborhood has had a culinary renaissance. Fans can sample craft brews, world famous wings, slow cooked BBQ, and more:

• Uncommon Ground  – what once began as a charming coffee shop has grown into a mecca for local art, live music, and the first organic brewery in the state of Illinois. Delve into steak and eggs, vegan caesar salads, or Helen’s famous grilled chicken sandwich paired with a Mutti’s Kolsch.
• Toons Bar & Grill  – a friendly bar located just steps from the field, thirsty patrons can hightail it here for ice cold drafts, juicy Black Angus Burgers, tater tot baskets, and their iconic Jumbo wings.

Related Post: Famous Restaurants in Chicago: A Foodie’s In-Depth Guide

• Big Star – looking to switch up your game day nachos and fries for some more picante fare? Take on a whole mess of tacos when you feast at Big Star. Now with a Wrigleyville location, Cubs fans can sample al pastor, pollo, and pescado tacos prior to the game.
• Murphy’s Bleachers  – a Wrigleyville staple for over 80 years, Murphy’s is home to the legendary Bleacher Bums, tons of Cubs memorabilia, and made from scratch chili. Tuck into an order of creamy chipotle mac and cheese, or keep it handheld with Polish sausage.
• Smoke Daddy  – lip smacking, slow cooked BBQ is what’s on the menu at Smoke Daddy. Refuel after a home game with a platter of Chicago style spare ribs or smoked brisket and burnt ends.
• Mordecai – feeling fancy? Trade in peanuts and cheap beer for craft cocktails when you dine at Mordecai. Elevate your Cubs cuisine experience with an order of charcuterie, wagyu beef tartare, or pork belly porchetta.

Fun Things at Wrigley Field

Hey there shortstop! True Wrigley fans know that the buck doesn’t stop at baseball. In fact, many non sporting events are held at Wrigley Field throughout the year. Wrigley Field concerts  are legendary and attract top talent such as Bruce Springsteen, P!NK, and Guns N’ Roses.

Check out the latest musical offerings, or wait until the winter months for a special Wrigley Field Christmas. Last year the stadium was transformed into a glittering winter wonderland courtesy of Gallagher Way. Visitors on the hunt for even more holiday treats and cheer can also stop by the traditional German Christkindlmarket hosted in Wrigleyville each year.

Hotels Near Wrigley Field Chicago

Not lucky enough to call the Windy City home? If you are on the hunt for Chicago Hotels near Wrigley Field, you’re about to score a home run. We offer up a number of downtown Chicago Hotels located just mere minutes from the stadium.

Savor modern furnishings and a continental breakfast, or keep things classic with a stay at The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center . Wherever you rest your head, you’ll be just a stones throw from the Navy Pier, Millenium Park, and Wrigley Field.

Psst..still scrolling for the top things to do closest to Wrigley Field? Check out our entire array of incredible Chicago Things to Do and couple your major league baseball game with a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago or a Bikes, Bites, & Brews tour .

Nowhere are sports and history more intertwined than the Windy City. Fiercely loyal, Chicago Cubs have made a lifetime of supporting their team and trekking to Wrigley Field for languid afternoons and evenings of baseball, bratwurst, and fly balls.

An integral part of the MLB legacy, even baseball newbies will be enchanted by Wrigley’s old school scoreboard and famous ivy backdrop.

Spot the point in centerfield where Babe Ruth hammered his iconic 1932 shot. Or wrangle your way onto a rooftop seat.

However you choose to take in this holy hall of baseball, you are guaranteed a true Chi-town adventure.

Tell us, Have You Visited Wrigley Field?

Leave a comment below!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

1 comment about “Wrigley Field Chicago – Tips and Things to Do for First-Time Visitors”

Hello there! My name is Mark Romanski…my wife, daughter and I will be heading to Chicago/Wrigley Field for the first time. My son is doing an Internship at Wrigley this summer. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

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It’s the National League’s oldest ballpark — now your groups can go behind the scenes of the Cubs’ historic Wrigley Field with a tour that lets them be a part of baseball history.

See tour schedule and book online .

Daily tours

Tell your groups to grab a baseball cap and get ready to go behind the scenes of Wrigley Field , rain or shine. On these guided tours, you’ll typically get a chance to explore:

• Cubs’ clubhouse (non-game day only), where great ball players of the past and present prepare for on-field battles.
• Visitor’s clubhouse (non-game day only), the same room where legends like Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, and Roberto Clemente have sat.
• Seating bowl,  where groups learn the storied history of Wrigley Field.
• Press box , where groups view the grounds from the best seats in the house.
• Bleachers , offering another one of Wrigley’s trademark views from behind the ivy.
• Cubs’ dugout , where groups can “grab some pine” like the pros.
• The field itself , providing a unique vantage point that few have experienced.

Specialty tours

To plan your own tour for a group, turn to one of two incredible specialty tours:

• Private Tour:  Arrange a private tour for your group through the Friendly Confines, complete with their own personal tour guide. You can even personalize the experience with a scoreboard message or lunch at the park.
• Living Legend Tour:  It doesn’t get more VIP than this! To arrange a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for your groups, consider booking a Living Legend Tour — led by a former Cubs player. It’s the only way for fans to hear the stories from the players who lived them firsthand. An after-tour autograph session tops off the truly memorable experience.

For the youngest baseball fans, kids’ tours take the cake. They are similar to the daily tours, but designed to knock the socks off this younger audience. Discounted group rates are available Mon.–Fri. These tours include:

• Interactive Educational Tour:  The perfect way for students to learn about the sights and sounds of this celebrated ballpark.
• Camp Wrigley Tour:  Summer camps can’t get enough of this tour, which gives them a rip-roaring day exploring Wrigley Field.
• Youth Group Tour:  Youth sports teams and Boy and Girl Scout Troops especially enjoy showing up to the ballpark in their uniforms for a picture-perfect photo op.

Book by phone at (773) 388-8270 or book a tour online .

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Home » Is the Wrigley Field Tour Worth It? Everything You Need to Know

Is the Wrigley Field Tour Worth It? Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re a tourist, history buff, or die-hard Chicago Cubs fan, a Wrigley Field Tour is a great way to experience one of the most beautiful ballparks in the United States. As the country’s second oldest ballpark, Wrigley Field is a historical icon and a popular must-see attraction in Chicago.

In fact, the stadium was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2020. People from all over the globe appreciate the opportunity to experience the ballpark more intimately. However, a lot of people wonder: is the Wrigley Field tour worth it?

Is the Wrigley Field Tour Worth It? Know Before You Go

Before taking a tour of Wrigley Field , there are a few important things to know. Being informed, and knowing what to expect, ensures a successful visit to the ballpark—also, this will help in determining: is the Wrigley Field tour worth it. This post will answer all questions regarding a Chicago Wrigley Field Tour. First off, if you’re looking to take a tour on a gameday, you’ll need tickets. Below is where we get cheap Cubs tickets. 👇

🎟️ Cheap Cubs Tickets > Buy Now

Below are the nine things they don’t tell you about a Wrigley Field tour.

1. Parking Tips

It’s no secret that trying to find a parking spot around Wrigley Field is probably one of the most annoying things to do in the entire world. One of the best ways to keep your vehicle safe while on a Wrigley Field tour is to find safe and secure parking.

Whether it’s a non-game day or a game day, the easiest way to find a parking spot is with Spot Hero , which is recommended by the Cubs. The site provides pictures of the location and actual parking spot so you can get a sense of how secure it is and how far it is to walk to the park. Obviously, the nicer the car, the more you’ll want to pay for safe parking.

🅿️ Cheap Wrigley Parking Spots > Check Availability

While you may find street parking much cheaper, there may be stipulations about how long you can park there. Also, the local towing companies are crazy aggressive and are hoping that you make a mistake. As a result, we recommend that you use either Spot Hero or park at Hotel Zachary if your budget allows.

How Many Have You Toured?:   10 American Halls of Fame You Must Visit

2. Be Alert to Violent Crime

Built in 1924, Wrigley Field is deeply rooted in tradition, like flying the W flag after winning a game and singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” The stadium also holds the unique characteristic of sitting in the middle of a neighborhood deemed Wrigleyville. Sadly, the residential location gives off a false sense of safety and security.

Home to a number of bars and restaurants that run down Clark Street, Wrigleyville is one of Chicago’s most popular areas for nightlife.

From April through October, tourists and outsiders flood the neighborhood to take advantage of the clubs that are open until 2 a.m. Unfortunately for families and residents, this brings in a lot of seedy people causing fights, theft, including robberies at gunpoint , and violent crime .

Our advice : Stay alert. Try to avoid walking long distances by focusing on getting from point A to B. Avoid staying out past midnight and never walk down dark alleys or streets.

Blind to the Crime and Chaos

According to Chicago Police data, the number of violent crimes in Wrigleyville is way up for 2023. Recent armed robberies and forced abductions at gunpoint are becoming commonplace and sadly there is no end in sight. Despite what you read online , Chicago’s violent crime is spilling into its tourist attractions and affluent neighborhoods.

Nearby, Lakeview residents “ Northsiders ” are having a difficult time coping with the reality that their once-trendy and affluent neighborhood is becoming a scary hotspot for theft, gun violence, kidnappings, and murder.

Don’t expect to arrive at the stadium with some false sense of security. No matter what the time of day, be alert and smart when venturing into the Wrigleyville neighborhood.

Tip: Get your Cubs trivia knowledge up to speed before the tour with  The Ultimate Chicago Cubs Trivia Book .

Where to Stay

In the spirit of safety, it’s a good idea to stay as close to Wrigley Field as possible. Therefore, if you have the means to splurge, we recommend staying at Hotel Zachary . Keep in mind, that this is one of the most sought-after accommodations on game days so if you want to stay here be sure to book well in advance.

Hotel Zachary > Check Availability

Two other nearby more affordable alternative accommodations include Wrigley Hostel or Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel . If you’d like to stay downtown, near most of the attractions, simply take a rideshare service. Willing to choose the best places to stay downtown by yourself or are you interested in getting off the beaten path? Try Trivago : a service comparing the best prices.

Best Western Plus (Wrigleyville) > Check Availability

Located across the street from the stadium, Hotel Zachary provides excellent views of the famous “Wrigley Field Home of Chicago Cubs” sign. Furthermore, there are plenty of food and entertainment options within safe  walking distance.

Other options include staying downtown and Ubering to the park. Regardless, of where you stay, be sure to purchase a Chicago CityPASS to enjoy the city’s best attractions at a huge discount. Also, starting in 2023, the Chicago CityPASS began offering the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour as one of the optional attractions.

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• 🚶 Chicago Architecture Walking Tour : Dazzling Interiors of the Loop
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• 😈👻 Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
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3. Tour Guides Make or Break the Tour

Wrigley Field is considered one of the better tours of any MLB stadium. However, guests consistently agree that the quality of their experience greatly depends on the individual who narrates the tour. Each guide has his own stories, facts, and insider knowledge to share.

Unfortunately, tours can be hit or miss because there is no way to know who will be your guide. Thankfully, the majority of tour guides are passionate about the Chicago Cubs and receive stellar reviews. In other words, the odds are in your favor to have a wonderful tour.

4. Length of Tour

The length of each Wrigley Field tour depends on several factors but typically runs from 75 to 90 minutes. Factors include the number of questions asked, the number of people in the group, and if any other events are scheduled during your tour day.

5. There is No Kid-Friendly Pricing

Currently, a Wrigley Field tour costs $30 plus tax and processing fees per person. This comes out to about $40 for each paid admission. Children under 2 are free.

Children older than 2 are the same price as adults. Unfortunately, this can make Wrigley Field tours very expensive for large families with several children and is a common complaint.

Save up to 50% on Chicago Attractions

One of the easiest ways to save a ton of money in Chicago is with a CityPASS . It includes all the best attractions, tours, and activities at one affordable rate. If you plan on hitting up just a couple of the major tourist attractions, it’s an absolute no-brainer. 👇

Chicago CityPASS > Buy Tickets

6. Game Day vs No Game Day—It Matters

Some visitors may think that scheduling a tour on a game day would offer a better tour, however, that is not the case. To clarify, there is no special opportunity to meet the players. Additionally, sometimes tours are rushed because the pregame preparations need to begin.

Touring the stadium on a non-game day offers visitors the chance to explore more of the park, such as the Cubs’ dugout and the outfield ivy. Furthermore, the official website clearly states that all tour stops and locations are subject to availability.

This is because Wrigley Field also hosts numerous special events each year including music concerts, live entertainment, and other sporting events . For example, visitors have made reservations on a nongame day, only to have the field closed off for another event.

Generally, the below features are accessible on a public tour. Reserve your Wrigley Field tour based on the elements you’re most interested in seeing. For example, if you want to see the dugout, then you should take the tour on a non-game day.

Non-game Day

• Seating Bowl
• Budweiser Bleachers
• Cubs’ dugout
• Visitors clubhouse
• Outfield ivy
• Upper Deck Patios

7. Tours Take Place Rain or Shine

The tours run rain or shine so come prepared with comfortable shoes, your favorite player’s jersey , a cute Chicago Cubs beanie , rain gear, or jackets if needed.

8. Visitors With Mobility Issues

Although the stadium is considered wheelchair accessible, to enjoy the full tour itinerary, stairs, and fast-paced walking is involved. That means certain areas like the Cubs dugout and the bleachers are not accessible to those with mobility issues.

Wrigley Field has special services available for those with special needs, including sign language services, onsite wheelchairs, and assisted listening devices. Please call 773-388-8270 for all inquiries at least 48 hours in advance of your arrival.

9. Here Are Some Wrigley Field Secrets (Spoilers)

For those that are unable to make a tour, below are a few insider secrets that have been shared on Wrigley Field tours.

• In over 100 years of baseball, a baseball has never hit the iconic scoreboard but a golf ball has. In 1951, American professional golfer Sam Snead teed off at home plate and hit the scoreboard with a golf ball.
• Free First Timer certificates are available to commemorate your first time at Wrigley Field. You can pick yours up at the First Timer’s Booth located on the main concourse inside the Marquee Gate directly behind home plate.
• Wrigley Field is the only stadium in MLB that doesn’t have padded outfield walls but rather ivy-covered brick. Rumor is that outfielders hide spare baseballs inside in case one gets lost inside the ivy. If a ball gets lost in the ivy, it’s considered a ground-rule double as long as the outfielder raises his hands to indicate the ball is lost. If he doesn’t it’s considered fair play.
• There are 5 statues scattered around the stadium playing tribute to famous Cubbie icons.
• Wrigley Field was the first place that started singing the Star Spangled Banner before sporting events.
• Many movies have featured Wrigley Field including The Blue Brothers, A League of Their Own, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, About Last Night, Rookie of the Year, The Break-Up , and The Babe . Moreover, TV shows like Chicago Hope, Family Guy, Perfect Strangers, ER , and Prison Break all have had scenes filmed at Wrigley Field.

Read : 6 Lovely Cities That Deserve a Professional MLB Team

Can you take a photo or selfie with the ivy? 

The best way to capture a Wrigley Field ivy selfie is to book a non-game day tour.

Are restrooms available?

Many people claim that bathrooms are not available during the tour, especially during the off-season. Visitors have suggested making sure you use the restroom prior to your tour at one of the nearby fast-food restaurants.

What do I have to know before booking tickets?

Most people choose to purchase Wrigley Field TOUR (not game) tickets on the official MLB website. This is because there is no guarantee that there will be spaces available on the day of your tour.

Once purchased, the tickets will only be accessible via the free MLB Ballpark app. Therefore, you will need a mobile device with the latest version of the app downloaded to access your Wrigley Field tour tickets.

Last, all available tour dates are listed on the website. If the date is not listed, there is no tour available for that date. Check back again because new tour dates are constantly being added to the schedule, typically at the end of the month.

How many people are on a tour?

The number of people on a tour varies greatly. Some reviews of public Wrigley Field tours report anywhere from 50 to 60 people during busy bookings. VIP tours are available for private groups of up to 50 people costing $1,500 plus tax and processing fees.

How do I contact a live person to assist me?

Book by phone at (773) 388-8270.

Where’s the best place to enjoy a cold brew after a Wrigley Field Tour?

If inclined, some choose to extend the tour by enjoying a cold brew at one of Chicago’s best Cubs bars. Local favorites include Murphy’s Bleachers , Slugger’s , Guthrie’s Tavern , and The Cubby Bear .

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Chicago Bears | From Wrigley Field to Soldier Field: Where the…

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Chicago Bears | From Wrigley Field to Soldier Field: Where the Chicago Bears have played home games since 1921

In 1921, the company gave George Halas the team, $5,000 and permission to move the team to Chicago if he would agree to keep the Staleys name for a year. The Staleys won the 1921 league championship. A year later, the team was renamed the Bears.

The Bears primarily have played home games at Wrigley Field and then Soldier Field, but a sprinkling of other venues also have hosted the team. Here’s a look back at them — and how the Bears have fared on those turfs.

Chicago Bears unveil their lakefront stadium plans as Gov. J.B. Pritzker says ‘I remain skeptical’

Wrigley Field (1921-1970)

Record: 221-89-22 (Two of the regular season victories came with the Bears as the “road” team against the Chicago Tigers)

The Bears played at Wrigley Field, previously known as Cubs Park, for their first five decades in Chicago. The team won nearly 70% of its home games during that span.

Wrigley Field is where University of Illinois star Harold “Red” Grange played his first game for the Bears on Nov. 26, 1925, in front of 36,000 fans. (The Bears and Cardinals fought to a scoreless tie, with Grange gaining 36 yards on the ground.) It’s also where the Bears became the first team in the championship era (since 1933) to win back-to-back titles by routing the Giants 37-9 on Dec. 21, 1941. And where “Kansas Comet” Gale Sayers scored six touchdowns — tying an NFL record — as a rookie in a 61-20 win against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 12, 1965.

In 1921, the Bears, then known as the Staleys, won the American Professional Football Association title. And it wouldn’t be their last. While at Wrigley, the Bears would win NFL titles in 1932, 1933, 1940, 1941, 1943, 1946 and 1963.

The team played its last game at Wrigley Field on Dec. 13, 1970 . The NFL had been pressuring the Bears to move because seating capacity was less than 50,000 — one of the parameters the league created after the AFL-NFL merger — and because the stadium lacked lights. Jack Concannon had his best game in the finale as a Bear, throwing four touchdown passes and scoring a fifth, in a 35-17 win over the Green Bay Packers.

Chicago Bears release images of a proposed new lakefront stadium

Staley Field (1921)

Record: 1-0

The Bears, known as the Staleys then, returned to their birthplace of Decatur to play the Rock Island Independents on Oct. 10, 1921 .

“Six thousand former service men and visitors attending the American Legion convention,” observed the game, the Tribune reported. The Bears won 14-10.

DePaul Field (1925)

As the home team, the Bears went undefeated at the Sheffield Avenue facility. They beat the Hammond Pros 28-7 on Oct. 11, 1925 .

Milton Romney, a University of Chicago graduate and first cousin once removed of Sen. Mitt Romney, started as a fullback opposite Notre Dame grad Johnny Mohardt.

Mills Stadium (1930)

Record: 0-0-1

“Ten thousand opening-day fans watched the elevens struggle up and down the dusty gridiron to a scoreless tie,” the Tribune reported.

The Bears met the Brooklyn Dodgers at the West Side stadium on Sept. 21, 1930 . Both teams managed to rack up 15 first downs, but no points. Bears fullback Bronko Nagurski recovered a fumble late in the game, but the Bears’ final effort to score was halted at Brooklyn’s goal line.

Loyola Stadium (1931)

The Bears beat the Cleveland Indians 21-0 on Sept. 18, 1931 .

Grange scored the Bears’ first touchdown of the season “when he crashed off Cleveland’s left tackle on a delayed plunge,” the Tribune reported.

Chicago Stadium (1932)

Snow and freezing temperatures turned Wrigley into the North (Side) Pole and forced the Bears vs. Portsmouth (Ohio) Spartans game for the NFL title indoors at Chicago Stadium to play on a 60-yard field before more than 11,000 fans. It was the first NFL game to be played indoors , according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

On Dec. 18, 1932 , the Bears won 9-0 for their second title.

The 1932 NFL championship. Indoors at Chicago Stadium. How one of the strangest — and most influential — games in Bears history changed the league.

Bears owner Virginia Halas McCaskey was a seventh grader at the time and had a lasting memory of the game.

“Just the odor,” she said with a laugh during a Tribune interview in March 2019. “It was almost overwhelming because the circus had just left town.”

Dyche Stadium (1970)

The Bears traveled 16 miles north to Evanston to take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Northwestern University’s Dyche Stadium (now Ryan Field) on Sept. 27, 1970 .

Despite winning 20-16, reviews of the Bears’ performance were brutal.

“The Bears committed almost every possible type of football sin. They were penalized for almost every foul in the book,” Tribune sports editor Cooper Rollow wrote.

Evanston didn’t think much of the Bears either. Residents petitioned city officials to block the  Bears from moving there. The Bears signed a five-year deal with Northwestern in early 1971, but the Big Ten Conference denied permission for the team to lease Dyche Stadium two weeks later.

Soldier Field (1971-2001; 2003-present)

Record: 234-176-2

The Bears relocated to Soldier Field — where they had played on occasion previously, including as the “away team” against the Cardinals in 1926 — for the start of the 1971 season. The team chose it over Comiskey Park. With the exception of one season in 2002 during stadium renovations, the downtown Chicago stadium on the lakefront has been their home ever since.

The new era began with a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, 17-15 on Sept. 19, 1971, in the rain. Capacity was cut to 57,000 fans.

Chicago’s Soldier Field: A timeline of events since 1924, including hosting the world’s athletes, congregations, politicians and performers

Soldier Field is where Walter Payton pummeled the Minnesota Vikings for 275 yards on Nov. 20, 1977 , breaking O.J. Simpson’s single-game NFL record of 273 yards on a 4-yard, fourth-down, fourth-quarter run that was stopped short of the first down. On Dec. 16, 1979 to news that George “Mugs” Halas, Jr., team president and son of the owner/founder, had died unexpectedly overnight, the Bears rallied to rout the St. Louis Cardinals 42-6 and earn a wild-card berth. Other memorable moments include a 61-7 win over the Green Bay Packers on Dec. 7, 1980 (though the Bears were eliminated from playoff contention after the Minnesota Vikings beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers). And a 20-12 win over the Eagles in the 1988 NFC playoffs known as “The Fog Bowl.”

A championship didn’t come easily, or quickly, to Soldier Field’s residents. It took 14 seasons for the Bears to bring a title home, winning Super Bowl XX in 1986 with a 46-10 rout of the New England Patriots. It was the team’s ninth and most recent title. The Bears did earn a dramatic trip to Super Bowl XLI by defeating the New Orleans Saints 39-14 in the NFC championship game on Jan. 21, 2007, at Soldier Field — and the George Halas Trophy was presented to Halas’ daughter and team owner Virginia McCaskey.

Memorial Stadium (2002)

Record: 3-5

While Mayor Richard M. Daley and the Chicago Park District were busy remodeling Soldier Field, the Bears moved down to Champaign to play “home” games at the University of Illinois’ Memorial Stadium.

Note: The Bears often played at Comiskey Park and Normal Park, but the Cardinals were the home team.

Sources: Tribune archives and reporting; Pro Football Hall of Fame; Pro Football Reference

Subscribe to the free  Vintage Chicago Tribune  newsletter, join our  Chicagoland history Facebook group  and follow us on  Instagram  for more from Chicago’s past.

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Don't give away taxpayer money for a new Bears stadium

Not a dollar of taxpayer money went to the renovation of wrigley field and its current reinvigorated neighborhood, one reader points out..

Renderings of the proposed new Bears stadium

Chicago Bears

I am a former Chicago media executive, and I have worked closely with all our professional sports teams. I am a supporter of all our teams. I am concerned about the current thinking on state and city priorities and funding.

We clearly have serious issues, starting with crime. I question the mayor’s support for a $4.7 billion project just to keep the Bears in the city, given all our other issues.

From what I understand, not a dollar of taxpayer money went to the renovation of Wrigley Field and its current reinvigorated neighborhood. Bravo, Mr. Ricketts and Crane Kenney. And we did get a Cubs World Series championship in 2016.

I do support a better and safer fan, player and commerce experience for our Chicago Bears. That said, professional sports team valuations have risen exponentially, and this will continue. Ownership funding needs to lead here.

Larry Wert, Riverside

SEND LETTERS TO: [email protected]. To be considered for publication, letters must include your full name, your neighborhood or hometown and a phone number for verification purposes. Letters should be a maximum of approximately 375 words.

No way to Bears stadium

It appears the lakefront stadium controversy is about to consume opinion columns for at least the near future.

But Sun-Times columnist Lee Bey said it all , with a minimum of words, in responding to Mayor Johnson’s disoriented remarks that the stadium would be the crown jewel of the city: “Wrong, Mr. Mayor. Chicago’s crown jewel is its lakefront. And you’re helping to tarnish it.”

William O’Neill, Near West Side

• Bears have designs on the lakefront, as Mayor Johnson plays the wrong position of cheerleader-in-chief

Blot on the lakefront

Do we really want to replace a city eyesore with an even larger eyesore?

Ted Staroscik, Darien

Team owners have waited long enough (ha!)

In 1991, the Illinois taxpayer bought the White Sox a new stadium. In 2003, Illinois taxpayers bought the Bears a newly renovated stadium.

It’s been 21 years — more than two decades — since the stingy, money-grubbing Illinois taxpayer coughed up one single dime for these entertainment companies owned by the idle rich, who in return have consistently provided teams that show up and play, at every single game!

This is an embarrassment only a massive grant of taxpayer funds could possibly remedy. How are billionaire sports franchise owners expected to keep making billions if the public doesn’t do its fair share and give them billions? It’s simple math, people.

This madness must stop. The sports teams’ corporate welfare taps need to be reopened after decades of running dry. And if it requires selling more bridges or misappropriating federal COVID-19 dollars to do it, so be it! The owners have waited long enough.

Jim FitzGerald, Edgewater

The George Lucas Star Wars museum on the actual museum campus was ultimately rejected to leave the lakefront “forever open, clear, and free.” Now the Bears want to take control of our beautiful lakefront, and we (the taxpayers) get to pay for it! This should be a hard no for all of us who hold the lakefront precious. Especially Mayor Brandon Johnson, who is mayor for all Chicago, not just the special interest of the Chicago Bears franchise.

Elizabeth Butler Marren, Beverly

Taxpayers can’t even afford tickets

I’m 78 and have been to one Bears game in my life. Tickets, parking and food were very expensive and way beyond my budget. We’ve had losing teams for years. Why should people be tax-burdened for a new stadium when most of us can’t afford to go to a game and our teams aren’t good? We are taxed to death in Illinois. Let the Bears pay for their “centerpiece for the city.”

Jane Fahey, Orland Park

Hoosier love for stadium

Debates on the merits or demerits of the proposed Bears stadium will go on until the stadium is built or canceled. I firmly believe Chicago should not delay in supporting what could be a transformational business project on its beautiful lakefront. I am convinced the proposed covered stadium will not only raise the profile of an already transcendent American city but also more than pay for itself over a period of time.

Why do I respectfully disagree with Sun-Times columnist Lee Bey, who offered reasonable concerns related to costs, location and architecture? One word should suffice: Indianapolis.

I live in northwest Indiana, 30 minutes from Chicago and more than two hours from Indianapolis, which has a domed stadium. My buddies and I along with a good number of other Hoosiers, have asked, “How could Indianapolis build a domed stadium and Chicago couldn’t?” I clearly understand the answer may be more complex than I imagine. Nevertheless, I am convinced where there is a will there is a way.

I believe Chicago will have the full support of northwest Indiana and more. Many of us share the frustration with having to travel two hours or more in frigid temperatures to enjoy a major sports activity in a domed stadium.

We love our attractions in Indiana and will always brag about Hoosier hospitality. However, we also appreciate the amenities that are, and can be, offered by our beloved neighbor.

Bey should be reminded the lakefront area will have two more attractions that will be hard to match by other cities for tourism, events and historical interest: the Obama library and a state-of-the-art domed stadium. Mayor Brandon Johnson, please keep cheering.

George Comer, Crown Point, Indiana

Give taxpayers a say

If the billionaire geniuses running the Bears and the White Sox need to take taxpayers’ money to cover their stadium costs, I say we let them have it on one condition: the respective front offices get replaced with a democratically elected Chicago Sports Team Council or something of that nature. No taxation without representation. The worst-case scenario is the council does an awful job of running the teams, so it shouldn’t really be that huge of a change for fans.

Conor Jansen-Granda, Edgebrook