Soldier Field

The Basics

One of the oldest and smallest stadiums in the NFL, Soldier Field has been a major Chicago landmark for nearly a century. Formerly listed on the National Historic Register, its interior was modernized and updated in the early 2000s. Over the decades, it has hosted banner events ranging from the inaugural Special Olympics and World Cup games to performances by artists like the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash, and Madonna.

Sports fans won’t want to miss a visit to Soldier Field, and the stadium can be seen on numerous Chicago itineraries, including helicopter, Segway, and bike tours. In addition to attending games and special events, you also can book stadium tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Free, stadium-wide Wi-Fi is hosted on site.

• Soldier Field is fully accessible to wheelchair and stroller users and those with limited mobility; wheelchair seating is available on an individual game basis.

• The arena hosts numerous parking lots, as well as electric vehicle charging stations and bike racks.

• For all events at Soldier Field, visitors must use small, clear bags or clutches exclusively; backpacks and larger bags are prohibited.

How to Get There

Soldier Field is located in Chicago’s Museum Campus, just steps from the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum of Natural History, and the Adler Planetarium. To reach the stadium, take the Red, Orange, and Green transit lines to Roosevelt station, or ME and SSL trains to Museum Campus / 11th Street. Alternatively, use bus lines 130 or 146.

When to Get There

Booked tickets online or over the phone in advance of your visit. Venue hours vary depending on the event. For tailgating before a Chicago Bears game, the parking lots typically open four hours prior to kickoff time, and close roughly six hours after kickoff for afternoon games and three-and-a-half hours after kickoff for nighttime games.

Soldier Field Stadium Tours

Soldier Field hosts regular and VIP paid tours, available for both private groups and public groups of up to 10 individuals. Stops include the famed “Spirit of the American Doughboy” statue, the field, player locker rooms, and more. Tour dates vary, and typically are limited to weekdays; reserve your place in advance via the online application form hosted on the stadium’s website.

Is visiting Soldier Field worth it?

Yes. A visit to Soldier Field is thrilling for Chicago Bears fans, and touring the historic football venue is worthwhile even if you’re not a sports fanatic. Built in 1924, the iconic structure—located next to the Field Museum—has remained an important part of Chicago’s heritage for a century.

Can you visit Soldier Field on a tour?

Yes. When home games aren’t in session, the sports venue offers behind-the-scenes tours of the historic stadium and surrounding monuments. The Classic Tour takes visitors through the south courtyard, colonnades, field, and visitor locker rooms, while VIP tours include a peek inside the stadium video control room.

Is there free parking at Soldier Field?

No, although several paid lots are available for anyone arriving by car for a guided tour on non-event days. If you’re visiting Soldier Field for a home game, your best bet is to come by rideshare (the drop-off point is at the 18th Drive turnaround).

Are there restrooms at Soldier Field?

Yes. The stadium is equipped with men’s and women’s public restrooms as well as family rooms. All restrooms have baby changing stations, a welcome perk for anyone traveling with an infant. Expect long lines during events. Visitors report that some restrooms are less crowded than others, so explore your options.

When is the best month to visit Soldier Field?

Think shoulder seasons. Early fall (September to October) is typically the best window for visiting Soldier Field. The days are still warm, while the city is a few months away from its infamous winter. You’ll also find fewer crowds. Mid-March to May is another ideal time to visit.

Do you need reservations to visit Soldier Field?

Generally, yes. Tickets are indispensable if you want to see a home game; visitors will be checked for mobile tickets while entering the stadium. If you’re keen to visit Soldier Field on a tour, you’ll also want to reserve tickets in advance using the stadium’s website.

Ways to explore

Sports fans won’t want to miss a visit to Soldier Field, and the stadium is featured on a number of Chicago itineraries, including hop-on, hop-off bus, Segway, and bike tours. Set along the lakeshore just south of Chicago’s Loop, the stadium can also be admired from the water on boat tours and scenic cruises. Attend a football or soccer game or a concert to see its interior—renovated in 2003—or book a stadium tour for a behind-the-scenes look at restricted areas, from the visitor’s locker room to the playing field.

Accessibility

Soldier Field is fully accessible to wheelchair users, with dedicated parking and seating.

Age limits

There is no minimum age for entry, though children 2 and up must have tickets to attend a game.

What to pack

Sun hat, camera, small binoculars, credit cards (Soldier Field is a cashless venue)

What to wear

Sunscreen, comfortable clothing, layers

Not allowed

Visitors must use small, clear bags or clutches exclusively; backpacks and larger bags are prohibited.

Amenities

Restrooms, concessions, Wi-Fi

Address

Soldier Field is located on Chicago’s Museum Campus, just south of the Loop. The stadium is easy to reach by both car and public transportation.

Driving

Take DuSable Lake Shore Drive south to the North Garage, South Lot, Waldron Deck, or Adler Lot paid parking areas, all a short walk to the stadium.

Public transportation

Take the red, green, or orange elevated train line to Roosevelt Station and either walk or take the 146 bus to the stadium entrance. During the summer, take the 130 bus directly from the downtown Metra stations.

Best times to visit

Purchase tickets for a daytime or evening football game or soccer match to enjoy the festive fan atmosphere, or attend a concert for a night of rock or pop music.

Best days to visit

For a stadium tour, plan to visit on a day when there are no sporting or cultural events scheduled. Or, buy tickets for an event to experience the stadium at its liveliest.

Best months to visit

The NFL season runs from September to January, while the MSL season runs from February to October. Concerts are held in the stadium during the summer.

Special events

The stadium hosts Chicago’s football and soccer games, plus special concerts and live performances in the summer. Check the official website for a current schedule.