Tips for Visiting Wrigley Field
I don’t want to speak for Scott, but since that’s what I normally do anyhow, why should this be an exception? We’ve mentioned before that we met at a Cubs game in St. Louis back in 1990. But even before that, we were both lifelong Cubs fans. I was a fan thanks to their minor-league affiliation here in the Quad Cities when I was a kid, but Scott knew more about the team, including stats about his longtime idol, Ernie Banks.
In all those years since we met, it wasn’t until 2014 that Scott and I decided we could (and should) spend some time together without the kids. They stayed with my folks for a day and we made a trip to Wrigley Field for a Chicago Cubs game. Finally. It was Scott’s first time at the legendary stadium so we were happy we had secured decent seats on the first base line. Not only did it offer us a close-up of the game, we were also able to see inside the Cubs dugout.
This year we decided to surprise the girls with a weekend trip to Chicago. On Saturday we attended Redhead Days and Sunday was Cubs day. In the days leading up to the trip, we visited multiple retailers to find just the right shirts to wear to the game. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find something that each of us liked and wished we had ordered Cubs shirts online ahead of time. Even with research and planning, we felt we left a lot on the table and wish we had prepared even better. We have some ideas on how to save even more money on our next trip to Wrigley Field.
Buy Souvenirs Online
First and foremost, we’ll plan ahead for souvenirs. Regardless of the age of the kid (including the ones in the 40+ age bracket), everyone wants something to show their team pride. We opted to get the girls miniature backpacks large enough to hold their phones, a power bank and small charging cable along with money and other necessities they needed to carry. For me, I’m happy with Cubs jewelry; something like a Cubs bracelet or earrings that I’ll be able to use year-round. Of course, there are a lot of cool souvenirs for men, women and children to choose from online! (Can you hear me whispering? “Dooney and Bourke has Chicago Cubs purses and bags.”)
Grab Team Apparel In Advance
Most people, including us, show up at the stadium wearing shirts and baseball caps with the Chicago Cubs logo. As I mentioned previously, a local retailer is an option but the selection online is MUCH better. Yes, these items are available at the stadium, but it will save a lot of money (and stress) if we purchased ahead of time allowing more time to explore once on site. Plus, the customary picture in front of the stadium prior to the game will include extra team pride.
Flags, Posters and Signs
We’ve never taken the time to make signs, but the girls were definitely jealous when other kids were making it onto the big screen. While we considered bringing along our Cubs flag, something disposable is probably a better option. Our next trip to Wrigley Field will include some pre-preparation so the girls can increase their display of team spirit and have a better chance of being picked out in the vast crowd. Supplies are cheap enough (and chances are there are plenty of extra leftovers from school).
Free Parking and Shuttle
If you use Spot Hero or even are planning just to park near the stadium, you may be in for a price shocker. We saved all our money by utilizing the Chicago Cubs offsite parking lot that included free shuttle service to the stadium. The buses drop off at one of the gates with return service throughout the game all the way until two hours after the game lets out.
Discount Concessions
Our original plan was to explore the stadium once we found our seats. But the usher informed us that concessions are on sale for 25% off until a certain time. We stocked up on food and made ourselves comfortable. When I got home, I researched to find out if this was something unique to the day we attended but discovered it’s a regular promotion. Wrigley Field offers discounts on concessions for an hour after gates open.
Free Certificate
First time at Wrigley Field? Stop by and get your free certificate titled “My First Wrigley Field Game”. This promotion is NOT just for kids. If it’s your first time at the stadium, they’ll be happy to award you a certificate. When you arrive, let them know it’s your first time and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Penny Squishing Machine
Oh Penny, Where For Art Thou? As I’ve said before, Squished Penny Machines are one of the best souvenirs ever. They cost a whopping 51¢ and take up hardly any room! While sitting at the Cubs game, I searched online to see if there was a machine at the Wrigley Field. Apparently there was one but it wasn’t until the game was over that I bothered to ask anyone. By then, they had already put the machine away. If you’re looking to add a Chicago Cubs squished penny to your collection, ask for directions then go get it when you’re done with your discount concessions.
Kids Run the Bases
Talk about really cool, unexpected surprises! Apparently on Sundays, the first 1000 kids 13 and under can run the bases at Wrigley Field after the game. It’s free and the only requirement is that kids get a wristband when they enter the stadium to show they are one of the first 1000. It was a long line, but the staff keeps the line moving. They announce no photos or videos on the field, but that was basically saying that they couldn’t stop while running. We were able to take photos and video (of our kids in line and running) as long as we didn’t step on the grass. Only one adult is allowed on the field with each child, but additional adults and older kids are allowed in the section behind home plate. It’s a great opportunity to say you’ve been on the field!
We’re already talking about our next trip to see the Chicago Cubs play and know what strategies to implement for our next visit.
Have you ever been to Wrigley Field?
Cubs 🙂 Gotta love the Chicago teams!
My husband would love this. Great post! Thanks for sharing.
I’d love to visit Wrigley Field. These are great tips. Thank you.
I have always wanted to go and now seeing all this I will have to make the trip. Your post was great and had alot of important information in there.
awesome!
Wow! I have not been to a cubs game since I was about twelve years old. I went with my Father and youngest brother. I was so glad this year when they won the world series. (go cubbies!)
awesome
Good review and I am glad you included how expensive the parking is around Wrigley Field! We live near Chicago and still take public transportation to most any Chicago sports teams’ games!
We are really proud of our World Series Champions!! Purchasing certain items ahead of time, can and will save time and money! It was a fun experience every time we went & I’m glad you and your family got to experience this. Chicago fans are some of the best & wildest fans! Chicago has a lot of site seeing to offer. Stay a while and WELCOME!
I love Chicago and the Cubs. I remember watching the Chicago Cubs on TV back in 1987 with my dad, it was then that they became my favorite baseball team. 🙂 Sounds like a fun trip!
I have not ever been to wrigley field, nor have I ever been to any sports game that was professional. I went to hockey twice, but they don’t tend to draw huge crowds. 🙂
How early did you need to arrive before the game to be one of the first 1,000 kids to get a wristband to run the bases?
We’ve never been lucky enough to make it there in time, but from what we’ve heard, the line forms before the gates open. It’s a popular promotion, and fortunately they do it many times a year. Hope you get to do it someday!
same question as Ann – how early do you need to get there on Sunday’s to get wrist bands for the base kids base running? taking kiddos to game this Sunday.
Sadly, we’ve never made it there early enough either. I would guess you’d have to line up well before the gates open since there’s only 1,000. Since we drive in from Iowa to see them, we never make it on time! Good luck and GO CUBS!
We were bleacher and rooftop fans. They are special kind of fun fans! We are south siders so The White Sox are one of our favorite teams. ⚾️