Soldier Field Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Chicago.
Last updated: 3/3/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | Soldier Field enforces the NFL Clear Bag Policy. Approved bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag. Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" are also permitted. Medical and diaper bags are allowed but are subject to search. |
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| Doors open | For Chicago Bears home games and PNC Executive Suites, doors generally open two hours prior to kickoff. For Chicago Fire FC matches, Gate 0 opens two hours before kick for fan activations and entertainment, while all other gates open 90 minutes prior to kick. Opening times may vary for other events at the discretion of stadium management. |
| Cashless? | Soldier Field is a cashless venue. All purchases at concessions, in-seat vending, and retail transactions require credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, or pre-paid Visa cards which can be purchased on-site. Parking is an exception where some garages may accept cash or card. |
| Rideshare zone | Rideshare drop-off for all events is located at the 18th Street turnaround just west of Lake Shore Drive. Rideshare pick-up post-event is at the corner of Balbo and Columbus for the first hour post-event, or at Roosevelt and Michigan Avenue. |
| Re-entry | Soldier Field generally has a strict 'no re-entry' policy. Exceptions may be made for guests needing to escort a service animal to a relief area or for personal emergencies (e.g., retrieving medicine), provided arrangements are made with a Guest Services Supervisor prior to exiting. |
| Transit | Soldier Field is accessible via CTA Red, Orange, and Green Lines to Roosevelt Station, which is a 3/4 mile walk or transfer to the #146 Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express bus. CTA bus route #128 Soldier Field Express also runs from Ogilvie and Union Train Stations. Pace provides Soldier Field Express Buses from six suburban locations for Chicago Bears home games and weekend concerts. |
Parking
It is recommended to pre-purchase parking in advance via SoldierFieldParking.com or the Park Mobile app. Fans without full Bears season coupons can park at McCormick Place Lot B and utilize free shuttles to the stadium on game days. It is advised not to use general directional apps on event day due to special road closures and traffic patterns.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers are not permitted in the seating areas of Soldier Field. Fans can check strollers at Gate 10 outside the stadium or, for Bears games, in the United Club at concierge desks on the 100 Level (or Gate 8 starting in October).
- Family perks: Soldier Field provides baby changing stations in all restrooms and is equipped with family restrooms. Children under 32" tall are permitted entry without a ticket by obtaining a complimentary lap pass at the Gate 8 or Gate 10 Ticket Office on game day. The Miller Lite Bears Fan Zone, open pre-game, offers activities like a petting zoo and pony rides.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Soldier Field offers Chicago staples such as Italian beef and sausage combo, Polish sausages, and features local eateries like DMK Burger Bar, Robinson's No. 1 Ribs, and Mr. Beef. Other unique items include the 'Monster Mary' (Bloody Mary), brisket-topped mac and cheese, and craft sausages. Gourmet donuts and churros are available for desserts.
- Local tradition: Tailgating in the designated parking lots on the Museum Campus is a long-standing tradition for fans attending events at Soldier Field.
Verified places nearby
Nearby institutions are still being verified for this venue.