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Soldier Field Guide

NFL · Chicago · 61,500 capacity

Last updated: 5/16/2026

Soldier Field occupies the southern edge of Grant Park, with Lake Michigan on one side and the Museum Campus on the other. Roosevelt Station on the CTA Red, Orange, and Green Lines sits three-quarters of a mile away — a flat, scenic walk along the lakefront — and free bus service on the #146 covers the last stretch on game days. Tailgating fills the south lots hours before kickoff, and staying in the South Loop puts both the stadium and Chicago's best deep-dish within walking distance.

At a glance

Bag policy
Clear bag policy
Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
Re-entry is not permitted; once you exit the stadium, y…
Gates open
Gates open 2h before
Outside food
Sealed water only
Getting here
Accessible via CTA 'L' (Red, Orange, Green lines to Roosevelt station) and Metra Electric District line (Museum Campus/11th St station).
Family friendly
Nursing rooms available; family restrooms located throughout the stadium.
Capacity
61,500

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Where to stay for Soldier Field

South Loop or Downtown/Loop

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.

See full Chicago stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Accessible via CTA 'L' (Red, Orange, Green lines to Roosevelt station) and Metra Electric District line (Museum Campus/11th St station).

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated rideshare pickup/drop-off zone is located at the 18th Street turnaround.

Parking: Pre-purchasing parking passes online via the official Soldier Field portal is highly recommended as lots often sell out.

After the event

Flo & Santos

Works well with these Chicago venues

Map context

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Located on the Museum Campus along the Lake Michigan shoreline, south of downtown Chicago.
  • Tailgating: Permitted in surface lots; prohibited in the Waldron Deck and other parking garages. Must occupy only one parking space.
  • Signature food: Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
  • Fan tradition: Extensive tailgating in the stadium parking lots regardless of weather conditions.
  • Pregame institution: Kroll's South Loop (1736 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616)