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Guaranteed Rate Field Guide

MLB · Chicago

Last updated: 3/3/2026

Guaranteed Rate Field is on Chicago's South Side, an easy trip via the CTA Red Line, Green Line, or Metra. While the stadium is surrounded by official lots where pre-game tailgating is permitted, many fans will tell you the real game day experience starts with the Red Line ride to the Sox-35th stop.

At a glance

Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
Re-entry into Guaranteed Rate Field is generally not pe…
Gates open
Gates open 2h before
Outside food
Outside food OK
Getting here
Guaranteed Rate Field is accessible via the CTA Red Line (Sox-35th station, a short walk), CTA Green Line (35th-Bronzeville-IIT station, a short walk), and Metra RI Line (35th Street - Lou Jones Station).
Family friendly
Family-friendly amenities include the Xfinity Kids Zone in left field for children 13 and under (featuring batting cages, base running, and pitching areas), a Rookie Corner for first-game certificates and buttons, and family/gender-neutral restrooms.

Upcoming trip that includes this venue

A real multi-game weekend from current index data that includes Guaranteed Rate Field.

Where to stay for Guaranteed Rate Field

Downtown Chicago or The Loop are ideal hotel neighborhoods, offering easy access to Guaranteed Rate Field via the CTA Red Line, and proximity to other major city attractions and restaurants.

The Loop

The Loop is the central hub of Chicago's transit system, offering unparalleled access to all sports venues via various 'L' lines and buses. It's a bustling area with numerous restaurants, theaters, and major attractions.

Perfect transit score, serving as the hub for all 'L' lines (Red, Blue, Green, Brown, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines). Easy access to Metra trains at Ogilvie and Union Stations.

South Loop

The South Loop offers excellent proximity to Soldier Field and Wintrust Arena, with easy access to Guaranteed Rate Field and the Museum Campus. It's an urban neighborhood with new developments and often more space for your money.

Well-served by the Red, Green, and Orange CTA lines. Soldier Field is a few blocks east of the Roosevelt stops (Red, Green, Orange Lines). Wintrust Arena is near Cermak-McCormick Place (Green Line) and Cermak-Chinatown (Red Line). Guaranteed Rate Field is near the Sox-35th Red Line stop and 35th-Bronzeville-IIT Green Line stop. Several bus routes are available, including #128 Soldier Field Express and #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express for Soldier Field.

River North

River North is a trendy and safe neighborhood just north of The Loop, offering a high concentration of hotels, upscale dining, and vibrant nightlife. It's an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking a lively urban experience with convenient access to major attractions.

The Red Line runs directly through River North, with Brown and Purple Lines serving its western edge. Express buses along Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive provide additional fast transit options.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park offers a charming blend of city convenience and neighborhood feel, with beautiful green spaces like Lincoln Park and the lakefront trail. It's considered a safe and appealing area for those seeking a more local experience while still being well-connected to the city.

Features access to the Red and Brown CTA 'L' lines, along with an extensive bus network, including Lake Shore Drive express routes.

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Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Guaranteed Rate Field is accessible via the CTA Red Line (Sox-35th station, a short walk), CTA Green Line (35th-Bronzeville-IIT station, a short walk), and Metra RI Line (35th Street - Lou Jones Station). Several CTA bus routes (24, 35, 39) also serve the area.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: The designated Rideshare Lot for pick-up and drop-off is located in Lot A on the Wentworth Avenue side, accessible for fans entering and exiting through Gate 5. This lot remains open until one hour after the conclusion of home games.

Parking: Fans are strongly encouraged to purchase parking in advance online, as it is generally cheaper and guarantees a spot in closer lots (A, B, C). Day-of-game parking is more expensive, has limited availability in Lots F and L, and is cashless (credit card only). Arriving early is recommended due to potential traffic congestion on game days.

After the event

ChiSox Bar & Grill is a suitable spot for post-game activities, located directly across 35th Street and remaining open after games. Other nearby local options include Turtle's Bar & Grill, Cork & Kerry, and The Ballpark Pub.

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Guaranteed Rate Field is situated on Chicago's South Side, near the intersection of 35th Street and Wentworth Avenue. It is located immediately off the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/94) and is surrounded by parking lots and public transit lines.
  • Tailgating: Tailgating is permitted in all official parking lots. Fans must set up within their designated parking space, ensuring pathways and traffic lanes remain clear. Small grills are allowed, but commercial or restaurant-grade grills and kegs are prohibited. Reserved tailgating spaces are available in Lot E. All charcoal must be dumped in provided coal bins. Tailgating ends at the start of the game, and lots close approximately one hour after the game; post-game tailgating is not permitted.
  • Signature food: Signature food items at Guaranteed Rate Field include Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian and Polish sausages, deep dish pizza, and Italian beef sandwiches.
  • Fan tradition: Local fan traditions include tailgating in the parking lots before games and often referring to the stadium by its previous names, 'The Cell' or 'Comiskey Park.' Taking the CTA Red Line is also considered a quintessential part of the White Sox game experience.
  • Pregame institution: ChiSox Bar & Grill (320 W. 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60616)

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • ChiSox Bar & Grill
    320 W. 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60616 · Bridgeport

    A great place to meet friends and family before, during, and after a White Sox game. It features over 70 flat-screen TVs, a state-of-the-art sound system, and a beer garden. In 2026, it serves as a ticketed gameday entrance and exclusive pick-up location for the Guaranteed Promo offer.

    What to order: Food and beverages from their menu.