What’s at Soldier field chicago?
Soldier Field Chicago Illinois is more than just a stadium — it’s a historic landmark and vibrant event hub. Soldier Field, the venue for the NFL’s Chicago Bears and Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire FC, offers exciting sports events throughout the year. Beyond football and soccer, the venue welcomes major concerts, festivals, and cultural events, making it a top entertainment destination in the city. Inside, you’ll find modern amenities, premium seating, and the Doughboy Statue, a tribute to American soldiers. The stadium is surrounded by the scenic Museum Campus, offering stunning lakefront views and access to nearby attractions like the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or history buff, Soldier Field Chicago Illinois delivers a uniquely immersive experience in one of the city’s most iconic settings.
Soldier field chicago History and Background Information:
Soldier Field in Chicago stands as one of the most iconic stadiums in the United States, merging a deep-rooted history with contemporary advancements. Opened on October 9, 1924, the stadium was originally dedicated as a memorial to American soldiers who died in wars, which inspired its name. Situated on the Museum Campus by Lake Michigan, it rapidly established itself as a civic landmark and served as a venue for various public events, such as military ceremonies, political rallies, and significant sports competitions.
Over the decades, Soldier Field has welcomed everything from collegiate football games to international soccer matches and world-renowned concerts. It became the official home of the Chicago Bears in 1971, further solidifying its reputation as a legendary sports venue.
In 2002, Soldier Field underwent a massive renovation to modernize its facilities while preserving its historic colonnades and original architecture. This project sparked national conversation, as the redesign gave the stadium a contemporary look nestled within its classical exterior.
Today, Soldier Field Chicago remains a centerpiece of the city’s sports and entertainment scene. It also serves as a tribute to American servicemen and women, with various memorials and exhibits located on-site. Blending nearly a century of history with 21st-century amenities, Soldier Field is not only a destination for fans and visitors, but also a powerful symbol of Chicago’s cultural and historical identity.
Tips for Visiting Soldier field:
1. Arrive Early: Soldier Field can get crowded, especially on game days or event nights. Arriving at least 60–90 minutes early helps you avoid long lines and gives you time to explore the stadium or grab a bite.
2. Use Public Transportation: Parking around Soldier Field Chicago is limited and often expensive. The CTA offers convenient bus and train routes to the stadium. Metra trains and Divvy bikes are also good options.
3. Check the Bag Policy: Soldier Field enforces a strict clear bag policy. Avoid delays by bringing only essentials in a transparent, approved-size bag.
4. Dress for the Weather: The stadium is open-air, so be sure to check the forecast. Layers are best for unpredictable Chicago weather, especially during fall and winter games.
5. Explore the Museum Campus: Located nearby, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are great additions to your visit. Make time to walk along the lakefront before or after your event.
6. Eat Before You Go: While concessions are available inside, they can be pricey and crowded. Enjoying a meal at one of the nearby restaurants ahead of time is a smart move.
7. Take Photos: Don’t miss a picture in front of the iconic colonnades or the Doughboy Statue—great souvenirs from your visit to Soldier Field Chicago.
Top things to do in soldier field
1. Catch a Game or Concert: Home to the Chicago Bears (NFL) and Chicago Fire FC (MLS), Soldier Field hosts thrilling matchups year-round. It’s also a popular stop for major music tours, offering unforgettable performances in a unique lakefront setting.
2. Visit the Memorials: Honor American servicemen and women by visiting the Doughboy Statue and other military memorials located on-site. These spots reflect the stadium’s original purpose as a war memorial.
3. Explore the Skyline Walk: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan from the stadium’s upper levels — perfect for photos and a peaceful moment above the action.
4. Check Out the Fan Plaza: On event days, the stadium comes alive with pre-game festivities, food trucks, live music, and fan activities that add extra excitement to your visit.
Soldier field events
Soldier Field Chicago is one of the city’s premier event venues, hosting a wide range of experiences throughout the year. While best known as the home of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Fire FC, Soldier Field is far more than just a sports stadium.
Every season brings something new — from NFL showdowns and international soccer matches to high-energy college football games and charity runs. It regularly welcomes world-famous artists and bands for massive outdoor concerts that draw thousands of fans under the stars.
Beyond sports and music, Soldier Field Chicago is also a venue for large-scale public events, including festivals, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations. The stadium has hosted everything from monster truck rallies to Independence Day fireworks and even yoga sessions on the field.
In the warmer months, outdoor areas around the stadium are used for tailgating, fitness events, and seasonal pop-ups, creating a lively atmosphere before and after main events. Many of these happenings also tie into the Museum Campus nearby, making it easy to enjoy a full day of activities.
Soldier field chicago tickets and price
Chicago Bears (NFL)
For the 2025 NFL season, ticket prices for Chicago Bears home games at Soldier Field start at approximately $88 before fees, with premium seats reaching up to $238. High-demand games, such as matchups against the Green Bay Packers or Dallas Cowboys, may have higher prices.
Major Concerts: Soldier Field also hosts large-scale concerts. For instance, Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour in 2025 had tickets ranging from $171 to $9,117 depending on seating and proximity to the stage. Similarly, Oasis tickets started at $241, with prices escalating for closer seats.
Chicago Fire FC (MLS): For Chicago Fire FC matches, ticket prices can be more affordable. Fans have reported purchasing club-level seats for as low as $15–$50, especially when buying through secondary markets like StubHub or SeatGeek.
Things to Do Near Soldier field Chicago:
Visiting Soldier Field Chicago offers more than just game-day excitement—it places you in the heart of Chicago’s scenic and cultural hub. Located on the city’s Museum Campus, Soldier Field is surrounded by top attractions and experiences that are perfect for exploring before or after an event.
Just steps away, you’ll find the Field Museum, home to Sue, the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. This natural history museum is a must-visit for science and history lovers of all ages. Adjacent to it is the Shedd Aquarium, where you can encounter everything from beluga whales to colorful coral reef species in one of the most celebrated aquariums in the U.S.
For space and science enthusiasts, the Adler Planetarium offers interactive exhibits and stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. It’s the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere and a great educational stop.
Nature lovers will enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Lakefront Trail, which runs past Soldier Field Chicago and offers breathtaking views of the water and cityscape. The 12th Street Beach, located nearby, is perfect for relaxing by the lake during warmer months.
Food and drink options also abound. You can explore nearby South Loop restaurants, featuring everything from Chicago-style deep-dish pizza to upscale dining and trendy bars. If you’re looking for something quick, food trucks and local vendors often line the streets during major events.
Where to Eat & Drink:
Just a short walk north of Soldier Field, the South Loop neighborhood is packed with diverse restaurants. For classic Chicago deep-dish, Lou Malnati’s on South State Street is a favorite. For those seeking a faster option, Devil Dawgs offers gourmet hot dogs and burgers that are ideal for a pre-game snack.
Looking for something more upscale? Try Mercat a la Planxa, a modern Spanish tapas restaurant on Michigan Avenue with a stylish atmosphere and bold flavors. It’s ideal for those wanting a sit-down experience before or after an event.
Craft beer lovers will appreciate The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, a historic building turned steakhouse with a great drink selection just minutes from the stadium. For more casual drinking spots, First Draft and Vice District Brewing offer local beers and hearty pub fare, popular with fans gathering before Bears games or concerts.
You’ll find everything from traditional stadium fare—hot dogs, nachos, and pretzels—to upgraded options like Italian beef sandwiches, gourmet tacos, and local craft brews.
If you’re in a rush, food trucks often park near the stadium on game days, offering everything from tacos and barbecue to coffee and desserts, providing a quick and tasty option just outside the gates.
Is there street parking by Soldier field?
Yes, there is limited street parking near Soldier Field Chicago, but it’s subject to strict regulations and often unavailable during major events.
The area surrounding Soldier Field falls within a residential parking zone, meaning street parking is typically restricted to residents with permits. Without a valid permit, unauthorized vehicles risk being ticketed or towed. Additionally, during events, the city enforces temporary parking bans starting two hours before and lasting one hour after the event, further limiting available street parking.
For those without parking permits, it’s advisable to utilize off-street parking options. Several parking garages and lots are available around Soldier Field, with some offering shuttle services to the stadium. Services like SpotHero can help locate and reserve parking spots in advance, ensuring a smoother experience on event days.
Soldier field parking
On-Site Parking
The primary parking facilities include the North Garage, Waldron Deck, and South Lot. For other events, parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and it’s advisable to purchase parking in advance through SoldierFieldParking.com to secure a spot.
Off-Site Parking with Shuttle Service
For Chicago Bears games, visitors can park at McCormick Place Lot B or Millennium Park Garage, both offering free shuttle services to Soldier Field. Shuttles operate from approximately two hours before kickoff until two hours after the game ends.
Alternative Parking Options
For concerts and other events, the Adler Planetarium Lot and Burnham Harbor Lot offer cash parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Rates and availability may vary, so it’s recommended to check current information before your visit.
How to Get There:
Public Transit: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides convenient access to Soldier Field. The Red, Green, and Orange Line trains all stop at Roosevelt Station, which is about a 15-minute walk to the stadium. Additionally, several CTA bus routes like the #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express and #130 Museum Campus run directly to Soldier Field, especially during event days.
Rideshare & Taxis: For convenience, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide easy access to Soldier Field. There are designated pick-up and drop-off zones along Columbus Drive, which is just a short walk to the venue. Taxis also frequently service the area.
Biking: Cyclists can take advantage of the Lakefront Trail, which runs along Lake Michigan and offers direct access to the stadium. There are bike racks near the stadium entrance, and Divvy bike-sharing stations are located nearby for easy rentals.
Walking: Soldier Field is within walking distance of downtown Chicago, making it easy to get there on foot if you’re staying nearby or exploring the Museum Campus area.