How to visit Wrigley Field like a true Cubs fan

If you are planning to travel to Chicago this spring you better get ready to play some ball! The Chicago Cubs Spring Training is just around the corner, and you will not want to miss out on a great Chicago tradition. The historic Wrigley Field, with its ivy covering and intimate, worn down charm is the second oldest (and arguably the best)  Major League Baseball ballpark in the country and is beloved by Cubs and baseball fans alike. The loyal Cubs fans make seeing a game a lively experience, and if you know how to do it right, you too will be shouting “root, root, root for the Cubbies!”

Located on the north side in Wrigleyville, there are a few tricks to seeing a game. Many of Chicago’s best hotels are in the Loop, so getting to the field is the first step to a great day. Game days attract throngs of fans, so parking can be an absolute nightmare. If you arrive early you can often find people living nearby selling their parking spaces at a decent price for the day. To avoid the hassle, and assuming you will be consuming a few beverages, leave the car behind. Your best bet is to take the Red Line to Addison. The Cubs emblem marks the stop and the field is steps from the train; so you really can’t miss it.

If you weren’t able to buy tickets ahead of time, check out Stub Hub to get last minute tickets. If you are REALLY last minute, and a little daring, wander into one of the many Wrigley bars and start befriending the bartender. Often the bartenders are hooked up with tickets the day of the game; so get ready to work your persuasive magic.

One great thing about Wrigley is there really is not a bad viewing point, but for the best experience you have to sit in the bleachers where all the fan action is. Yes, it is crowded and hot, but get an Old Style beer, bond with the fans, and you will understand why the bleachers are the place to be.

There is no need to travel far before or after the game for food and drink. All the activity is within a two block radius of the field. For a real down n’ dirty feel head to Murphy’s Bleachers before the game. Fans crowd the bar and pour out onto the street in front, or to the patio in back. Nothing but cheap beer here, and plenty of appetizer options to soak up those cold ones. Also great for people watching, which is always entertaining on game day.

After the game Wrigleyville really comes to life, with fans and Chicagoans filling the streets. For a more classy option head to Vines on Clark for pizza. On a sunny day try to snag a table on the roof. Just across from the marquee,  Harry Caray’s Tavern is a popular sports bar with plenty of drinks and food specials for before, during, or after the game. It generally attracts an older crowd, but is a sure bet for anybody catching a game. If you still have the energy, and are ready for more, check out the Cubby Bear, which features two large bars and a lively dance floor.

Now go buy your tickets! Go Cubs!