Baseball fans need to visit Chicago’s Wrigley Field stadium
Do you love baseball? Are you planning on staying with us at Freehand Chicago? Then as a sports fan, there are few experiences more exciting than visiting a historic Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium. One such stadium that holds a special place in the hearts of baseball fans is the iconic Wrigley Field.
Believe it or not, Wrigley Field is actually the second-oldest ballpark in the MLB and is steeped in rich history and tradition! From its ivy-covered walls to its famous marquee, this stadium is a must-visit destination for any baseball enthusiast staying in Chicago – whether it’s for a game or a stadium tour.
In the guide below, we’ll explore why Wrigley Field is a beloved landmark and provide tips for visitors looking to experience the magic of this iconic stadium in person.
What team plays at Wrigley Field?
The Chicago Cubs, one of the oldest and most beloved teams in Major League Baseball, play at Wrigley Field. The Cubs have called this stadium their home since 1916 and have a storied history with the ballpark.
Known for their dedicated fan base and passionate play on the field, the Cubs have won three World Series championships and have a loyal following of fans who come to Wrigley Field to cheer them on.
Where is the Wrigley Field stadium in Chicago?
Wrigley Field stadium is located in the Lakeview neighborhood on the north side of Chicago – the ballpark itself is actually situated just a few blocks from Lake Michigan! The surrounding neighborhood is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to explore before or after a game.
History of the stadium
Wrigley Field stadium has a rich and storied history that dates back over a century. The ballpark was originally built in 1914 for the Chicago Whales, a team in the now-defunct Federal League. After the league folded, the Chicago Cubs purchased the ballpark and moved in two years later, in 1916.
Since then, Wrigley Field has been the beloved home of the Cubs and has played host to some of the most memorable moments in baseball history. In addition to baseball, the stadium has been used for other sporting events such as football, hockey and soccer matches. The ballpark has also hosted the likes of Bruce Springsteen, The Foo Fighters and Lady Gaga as a concert venue.
Over the years, Wrigley Field has undergone several renovations and updates to ensure that it remains a state-of-the-art facility, while still preserving its historic charm and character.
Stadium Tours
If you miss out on seeing a baseball game while visiting Chicago, we still recommend visiting Wrigley Field for one of its famous stadium tours. This tour provides sports fans and anyone interested in the history of this legendary ballpark with an unforgettable experience for.
Visitors have the opportunity to explore the stadium’s unique features, such as the ivy-covered outfield walls and the iconic scoreboard, and also include visits to the Cubs’ dugout, the press box, and the visitors’ clubhouse. The full guided tour lasts 75-90 minutes and costs $30 + tax for an individual ticket (tickets for children under 2 are free). You can purchase your ticket on the Cub’s website here.
How to get there from Freehand Chicago
If you’re planning on spending a day at the ballpark during your stay at Freehand Hotel Chicago, you’ll be glad to hear that Wrigley Field is easy to reach. There are a few options you have to reach the stadium:
- Car or Taxi (approx 12 minutes)
- Transit Train (18 minutes including walking): Catch the Red Line (Howard) from Grand and get off at Addison. The ballpark is less than a minute from your stop.
- Bus (approx 27 minutes including walking): Take the number 22 Howard bus from Dearborn & Grand to the Clark & Addison stop. The ballpark is less than a minute’s walk from here.
