Key Takeaways:
- The Liveliness of Wrigleyville: Wrigleyville is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history centered around Wrigley Field, offering a unique blend of baseball culture and community spirit.
- How To Get To Wrigley Field: Getting to Wrigley Field is easy with various transportation options like the CTA, biking, and walking, each adding to the game-day experience.
- Cubs Traditions To Get Involved In: Enjoy iconic Cubs traditions, explore sports bars and rooftop lounges on Clark Street, and savor Chicago's famous foods like hot dogs and deep-dish pizza near the ballpark.
If you’ve ever felt the electric buzz of a Cubs game at the iconic Wrigley Field, you know Chicago’s North Side is more than just a ballpark. It’s a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and good vibes waiting to be explored. From quirky bars to scenic strolls, there’s something for everyone to soak in the spirit of this storied neighborhood.
At The Wander Club, we’re all about collecting those unforgettable moments, turning your travels into tangible memories with our handcrafted tokens and accessories. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to explore Chicago and check out some of the best things to do near Wrigley Field, including places to laugh, eat, and make memories worth collecting. Ready to roam? Let’s go!
History Of Wrigleyville And The Friendly Confines
Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s North Side, Wrigleyville is a patch of urban turf, centered around the iconic Wrigley Field, and has been the beating heart of baseball dreams since the stadium opened its ivy-covered gates in 1914. Originally called Weeghman Park, it was built for the Chicago Whales of the Federal League, but when the league folded, the Cubs moved in by 1916, and the rest, as they say, is history. Renamed Wrigley Field in 1927 after chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr., the ballpark became a cathedral of the game, one of the last standing relics of a bygone era.
Wrigleyville itself grew up around the stadium, a tight-knit community where the crack of bats and roar of crowds are as much a part of daily life as the ‘L’ train rumbling nearby. The neighborhood’s bars and eateries, like the legendary Cubby Bear. This iconic spot opened in 1953 and became hallowed ground for pre- and post-game rituals, where fans dissect every play over cold beers. But it’s not just about the games; it’s about the stories. The Friendly Confines, as Wrigley Field is affectionately known, has seen it all: the Babe Ruth “called shot” legend of 1932, the crushing disappointments of near-misses, and finally, the euphoric 2016 World Series win that broke a 108-year curse. Walking these streets, you can feel the weight of those moments.
Beyond the diamond, Wrigleyville embodies a scrappy, blue-collar charm that’s quintessentially Chicago. It’s a place where neighbors know each other by name, where every summer day feels like a block party when the Cubs are in town.
Getting To Wrigley Field: CTA, Bikes, And Beyond
Let’s talk logistics, because getting to Wrigley Field is half the adventure if you’re weaving through Chicago’s bustling streets:
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
First up, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is your best friend. The Red Line drops you off right at the Addison station, literally steps from Wrigley’s iconic marquee. It’s the kind of convenience that makes you wonder why every stadium isn’t this accessible. Trains run frequently, especially on game days, and the energy of fellow fans packed into the cars, decked out in Cubs gear, cracking jokes, swapping predictions, turns the ride into a pre-game ritual. Just keep an eye on schedules if you’re heading out post-game; the platforms can get as crowded as a bases-loaded ninth inning. Pro tip: Grab a Ventra card if you’re in town for a few days. It’s reusable, cuts down on fumbling for change, and works on buses, too.
Biking
If public transit isn’t your speed, biking to Wrigley is a surprisingly solid play. Chicago’s got a growing network of bike lanes, and the Lakefront Trail offers a scenic route if you’re coming from downtown or the North Side. Lock up near the ballpark, and you’ve got yourself a low-stress, eco-friendly way to roll in. Divvy, the city’s bike-share program, has stations nearby, so you don’t even need to own a set of wheels. Just watch for game-day traffic; drivers get a little distracted when the Cubs are in town.
Walking And Rideshare
For those who’d rather walk or grab a rideshare, Wrigleyville’s compact layout makes it doable. Strolling from nearby neighborhoods like Lakeview lets you soak in the pre-game buzz, as street vendors sell hot dogs, bars overflow with fans, and the faint roar of anticipation builds as you get closer. Rideshares like Uber or Lyft are clutch if you’re short on time, though surge pricing on game days can sting. If you’re driving yourself, good luck! Parking around Wrigley is a notorious nightmare. Spots are scarce, meters are strict, and garages jack up rates when the bleacher bums roll in. Your best bet is booking a spot ahead through apps like SpotHero, but even then, prepare for a trek.
Classic Cubs Game Day Traditions To Experience
- Pre-Game Buzz: First up, there’s the pre-game buzz on Waveland Avenue. Before the gates even open, the street outside left field is a carnival of diehards and dreamers, some clutching gloves in hopes of snagging a home run ball during batting practice. It’s a chaotic, beautiful mess. Be sure to grab a spot, soak in the chatter, and feel the neighborhood pulse as game time nears.
- Seventh-Inning Stretch: Then, once you’re inside, it’s all about the seventh-inning stretch. When the organ kicks in and “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” blares, you’re joining a chorus of thousands, belting out lyrics with strangers who feel like family for those fleeting minutes. Bonus points if a celebrity or Cubs legend leads the charge from the broadcast booth, and keep your eyes peeled for surprise guests.
- “Go Clubs Go” Singalong: If the Cubs clinch a victory, stick around for the “Go Cubs Go” singalong as the W flag flies high. It’s a triumphant, goosebump-inducing sendoff. Even on tougher days, there’s a gritty camaraderie in the crowd as fans spill out into the surrounding bars and streets of Wrigleyville, dissecting every play over a cold one. Join in, swap stories, toast to the next game, and revel in the unshakable optimism that defines Cubs fandom.
Iconic Sports Bars And Rooftop Lounges On Clark Street
If you’re wandering near Wrigley Field, you can’t miss the electric buzz of Clark Street, a stretch that’s practically a pilgrimage for Cubs fans and anyone craving the heartbeat of Chicago’s sports culture. Let’s get into some of the heavy hitters that make this area a must-visit:
Murphy’s Bleachers
Start with Murphy’s Bleachers, a stone’s throw from Wrigley’s outfield walls. Decked out in Cubs memorabilia, it’s the kind of place where you’ll overhear old-timers recounting the 2016 World Series like it happened yesterday. Grab a cold one and soak in the nostalgia; the patio offers prime people-watching as fans spill out post-game, win or lose. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s the kind of spot where you’ll feel like part of the neighborhood crew by the end of the night.
Old Crow Smokehouse
For a different vibe, head up to Old Crow Smokehouse, where the rooftop lounge gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Wrigleyville madness. This place fuses Southern BBQ with Chicago grit, offering smoked brisket sandwiches paired with a craft beer while the skyline glitters in the distance. It’s less about die-hard fandom and more about savoring the moment, especially on a warm summer evening when the air hums with anticipation before a game. The communal tables make it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or locals itching to share their Cubs hot takes.
Sluggers Sports Bar
Then there’s Sluggers Sports Bar, a two-story legend that’s as much about the experience as it is about the drinks. Downstairs, you’ve got the classic dive-bar feel with TVs blaring every play, but upstairs? That’s where the party lives. Dueling pianos, arcade games, and a crowd that’s always ready to chant makes for chaos in the best way. This is where you go to let loose, surrounded by folks who live for the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd.
Must-Try Eats: Chicago Dogs, Deep-Dish, And Local Favorites
Alright, let’s talk food, because without it, you’re doing Wrigley Field wrong. This city’s got a food scene that’s as much a part of its identity as the Cubs themselves, and trust me, you’ll want to swing for the fences with these iconic eats:
- Chicago-Style Hot Dog: First up, the Chicago-style hot dog. Head to spots like Portillo’s or Wiener’s Circle, both a quick jaunt from Wrigley, and grab one “dragged through the garden.” That’s code for a poppy seed bun piled high with mustard, neon-green relish, onions, tomatoes, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all hugging a beef frank. No ketchup allowed, by the way.
- Deep-Dish Pizza: Then there’s deep-dish pizza, the heavyweight champ of Chicago cuisine. This isn’t your flimsy, foldable slice — it’s a pie, a fortress of crust stuffed with cheese, sauce, and whatever toppings you’re craving. Lou Malnati’s, just a few blocks from the ballpark, is a fan favorite for a reason.
- Pub Grub: Don’t sleep on the local favorites either. Swing by Murphy’s Bleachers, a historic bar right by Wrigley, for some solid pub grub, think burgers and nachos that pair perfectly with a post-game beer. Or, if you’re craving something with a bit more soul, check out Southport Grocery and Cafe for a breakfast sandwich that’ll fuel your day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
As you soak in the electric atmosphere of Wrigley Field and the vibrant streets of Wrigleyville, why not carry a piece of this Chicago magic with you? At The Wander Club, we’re all about helping you collect your travels in a way that’s personal and purposeful. Imagine adding a beautifully crafted, engraved token of Wrigley Field to your collection as a solid brass keepsake, customizable with a date or initials, that clips effortlessly onto a rugged leather Wanderchain. So, whether you’re a die-hard Cubs fan or just passing through, grab a token, share the love, and keep exploring.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Exploring The Wrigley Field Area
What are the best attractions near Wrigley Field?
If you’re in the orbit of Wrigley Field, you’re already in one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods of Wrigleyville. Beyond the historic ballpark itself, there’s plenty to soak in. Take a stroll down Clark Street for a taste of local culture, with quirky shops and street art that scream Chicago pride. Lake Michigan is just a short jaunt east, where you can hit up North Avenue Beach for stunning skyline views or simply relax by the water. And if you’re into history or architecture, the nearby Lakeview neighborhood offers a mix of vintage buildings and hidden gems worth a wander. It’s the kind of area where every corner feels like a story waiting to be told.
Are there family-friendly activities close to Wrigley Field?
Absolutely, Wrigleyville isn’t just for die-hard Cubs fans. Families can head to Gallagher Way, the open-air plaza right next to the stadium, which often hosts events like movie nights, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals, such as ice skating in winter. The nearby Lincoln Park Zoo, a bit further north, is a free, fun outing for kids and adults alike, with animals, gardens, and a chill vibe. Plus, the lakefront trail offers space for biking or picnicking with the family, making it easy to burn off energy while taking in the city’s beauty. It’s a neighborhood that welcomes everyone to the party.
What restaurants are popular near Wrigley Field?
Food around Wrigley Field is as much a part of the experience as the game itself. For a classic Chicago hot dog, swing by Wiener’s Circle on Clark Street, and expect some playful sass with your order; it’s part of the charm. If deep-dish pizza is on your mind, Pequod’s Pizza is a local favorite, serving up caramelized-crust pies that’ll have you dreaming of your next slice. For something more upscale, try Swift & Sons, a steakhouse just a bit south, blending old-school vibes with killer dishes. And for post-game brews and burgers, Old Town Pour House has a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding. These spots aren’t just meals; they’re memories.
Is there nightlife around Wrigley Field?
Wrigleyville comes alive after dark, especially on game nights. The area is packed with bars and pubs catering to every vibe. Sluggers, a sports bar staple, offers arcade games and a raucous crowd cheering on the Cubs. For craft beer lovers, Corridor Brewery & Provisions serves up locally brewed pints with a killer patio. If you’re looking to dance or catch a DJ, head to Deuce’s & The Diamond Club for a high-energy night out. The nightlife here isn’t just a scene, it’s a full-on celebration of Chicago’s spirit, win or lose.
Can I take a Wrigley Field tour?
You bet. Wrigley Field tours are a must for any baseball fan or history buff. These guided experiences take you behind the scenes of the second-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, from the dugouts to the press box, and even onto the field itself (on non-game days). You’ll hear tales of legendary games, curse-breaking moments, and the quirks of this 100-plus-year-old stadium. Tours run year-round, though schedules vary based on the season and game days, so check the Cubs’ official site for tickets and timing. It’s not just a tour; it’s a pilgrimage.
What are good spots for live music near Wrigley Field?
Music lovers, you’re in luck! Wrigleyville and its surrounding areas are a hotbed for live tunes. Metro, just a stone’s throw away on Clark Street, is a legendary venue hosting everything from indie bands to big-name acts in an intimate setting. Schubas Tavern, a bit further south in Lakeview, offers a cozy spot for folk, rock, and up-and-coming artists, often paired with a great beer selection. And don’t sleep on The Vic Theatre, another nearby gem for concerts and comedy shows with a historic edge. Whether you’re catching a local act or a touring band, the music scene here pulses with the same energy as a ninth-inning rally.