Baseball season is officially underway, and there’s no better way to experience Chicago’s love for the game than a day at the ballpark. Whether you’re heading to The Friendly Confines or Rate Field, we’re sharing the ultimate playbook for how to make the most of game day – from finding the perfect seats in the stadium to discovering the top spots for a post-game meal.
Your Day at Wrigley Field
Getting there: Wrigleyville is notoriously busy on game days, making street parking hard to come by. If you’re planning to drive to the game, your best bet is to reserve a spot through a platform like Spothero. If you don’t have a reservation, the stadium offers free remote parking at 3900 N. Rockwell St. for night and weekend games, with free shuttles running to and from Wrigley Field. For those relying on public transportation, Wrigley Field is easily accessible from the Addison Red Line stop, which is just a few hundred feet away, and multiple bus routes.
The best food outside the stadium: For a bite to eat before or after the game, head to Lost Never Found. The colorful restaurant is just across the street from Wrigley Field and offers fun cocktails, an expansive menu and a plethora of neon signs. Craving a classic Chicago hot dog? Head to Byron’s Hot Dogs on Irving Park Road. This iconic stand has been serving up mouthwatering Chicago-style dogs—loaded with all the traditional fixings—since 1975, making it a beloved neighborhood staple for fans and locals alike.
The best food in the stadium: Arguably the star of Wrigley’s food offerings, the North Side Twist Pretzel is a showstopper. This massive two-pound pretzel, served with three flavorful dips—chipotle honey mustard, beer cheddar cheese, and cinnamon frosting—is designed for sharing. And let’s not forget the Chicago classics that round out the menu: Vienna Beef hot dogs, Garrett’s popcorn, and deep-dish pizza.
The best seats: Seats along the left and right field foul lines are always a popular choice, offering great views of the action, but if you’re willing to splurge, tickets behind home plate provide an unbeatable view. For a true taste of fandom, Wrigley Field’s bleachers are a must. For a truly unique experience, try rooftop seating on nearby buildings. While the view may not be spectacular, the experience is unforgettable—and more budget-friendly too.
The best place for a pre- or post-game drink: For the perfect pre- or post-game drink, head to Murphy’s Bleachers, a favorite local sports bar. On game days, Cubby Bear and Rizzo’s—unrelated to the legendary North Side player Anthony Rizzo—are also top picks.
Best place to practice your swing: The second floor of Sluggers in Wrigleyville is packed with arcade games, dueling pianos and their famous batting cages. They also have an outdoor patio for those beautiful Chi-town summer days.
Image credit: Secret Chicago
Your Day at Rate Field
Getting there: Located just off the Dan Ryan Expressway, the stadium is very convenient for drivers, with ample on-site parking options for $17-$30. For those opting for public transit, the stadium is just a short stroll from the Sox-35th Red Line station and is connected to several bus routes.
The best food outside the stadium: Check out Ricobene’s on 26th St. for their famous breaded steak sandwich, which was given the title of best sandwich in the nation by USAToday. Alternatively, head to Fabulous Freddie’s, a beloved family-owned Bridgeport institution, famous for their wings, pizza and sandwiches.
The best food inside the stadium: Rate Field offers a feast of options for food lovers—where should you begin? Fan favorites include the elotes (aka Mexican street corn), the Campfire Milkshake, and savory cheddar and potato pierogies. Feeling adventurous? Try the Blue Moon-infused bratwurst, served with a bold charred orange mustard. New to this year’s menu are Korean dogs—Vienna Beef hot dogs topped with a variety of creative toppings, including one covered in Flaming Hot Cheetos. We can’t vouch for the flavor just yet, but we’re excited to give them a try!
The best seats: For an unforgettable experience at Rate Field, the Wintrust Scout Seats (rows 1-11, right behind home plate) and the Rate Club (located on the 200 level behind home plate) are top-tier options. Looking for something a little different? Check out the Leinenkugel’s Craft Lodge, where you can enjoy a unique perspective straight into the opponents’ bullpen—no extra ticket required.
The best place for a pre- or post-game drink: Your car! A favorite tradition at Rate Field, fans can tailgate in the parking lots and can purchase reserved tailgating spaces in Lots B and E, which includes a dedicated tailgate space, early access and proximity to gates.
Where to go for a hint of nostalgia: The original Comiskey Park once stood proudly at the corner of 35th Street and Shields Avenue, and although it was demolished in 1991 to make way for a parking lot serving what’s now Rate Field, its legacy lives on. You can check out a marble plaque that marks the exact location of Comiskey Park’s home plate, while the foul lines of the historic ballpark are painted onto the asphalt.
