Visiting Wrigley Field: How to Explore the Ballpark and Beyond

Packed the bags. Booked the hotel. It’s game time!

Now’s the moment to visit Wrigley Field and step up to the plate for one of Chicago’s most legendary experiences.

The crowd hums like pre-game jitters, and the energy around the Friendly Confines of the North Side of Chicago hits like a fastball to the chest.

Whether chasing a Chicago dog or cheering for the Chicago Cubs, this place delivers inning after inning.

Visiting Wrigley Field means chasing fly balls on a stadium tour, standing feet from the ivy, and riding the wave of game day hype from first pitch to final out.

Keep reading this Wrigley Field guide and get ready to hit this Chicago classic out of the park!

Step Up to the Plate: Wrigley Field Tours That Hit It Out of the Park

One of the top answers to what to do at Wrigley Field—especially if you’re not attending a game—is to book a guided tour of the ballpark.

These tours are designed to give fans and first-timers an inside look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs, complete with stories, stats, and major photo ops.

The standard 90-minute tour includes access to lower-level seating, the upper deck, and the outfield, including that iconic ivy-covered wall.

It’s the perfect mix of baseball history and behind-the-scenes magic that makes visiting Wrigley Field more than just a quick stop.

On non-game days, the tour gets even better. You may get access to player-only areas like the press box, dugouts, and the visitor’s clubhouse—aka the spaces where the drama actually happens.

If you’re more about the pics than the playbook, the Ivy Tour is your MVP. It’s a non-game day experience that gives you that coveted in-front-of-the-ivy shot for your camera roll and Instagram grid.

As of 2025, standard non-game day tours cost about $25 per person, while the Ivy Tour runs around $35. Space is limited and demand is high, so advanced booking is highly recommended.

The tour starts at the Gallagher Way Gate, located on the west side of the stadium. You’ll want to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you don’t miss a thing.

Game Day Like a Pro: What to Know Before You Take Your Seat

If you’re planning to catch a game, knowing the ins and outs of attending an event at Wrigley is essential.

One of the most exciting things to do at Wrigley Field is showing up early to soak in the buzz—gates typically open 90 minutes before first pitch, or two hours before on special game days like Opening Day.

Before you go, make sure your Chicago Cubs tickets are loaded in the MLB Ballpark app, as everything is mobile-only. No screenshots, no printouts—just the app and a charged phone.

Leave the oversized bags and hard coolers at home, because only small bags under 16x16x8 inches are allowed inside.

Diaper and medical bags are the only exceptions, but everything is still subject to inspection at the gate.

Inside the stadium, it’s fully cashless. From hot dogs to hats, all purchases must be made with a card or mobile payment, so plan ahead.

Wrigley’s code of conduct is all about respect and keeping the vibes high—sit in your assigned seat, limit movement during plays, and save the rowdiness for the seventh-inning stretch.

Accessibility is a win too, with service dogs welcome and complimentary wheelchair service available upon request.

Out of all the things to see at Wrigley Field, the energy on game day is unmatched. From cheering with the crowd to singing “Go Cubs Go,” this is the kind of experience that turns casual fans into diehards.

Pro Tip: Skip the parking drama and hop on public transit instead—it’s the true Chicago way to roll up to the ballpark at 1060 W Addison St, Chicago.

Between CTA trains, buses, and PACE shuttles, you’ll save time, cash, and your sanity before the first pitch even flies.

Beyond the Ballpark: Where to Eat, Stay, and Celebrate the Win

The Warm-Up Before the Main Event

Gallagher Way is where the game day buzz begins before you even step inside the stadium.

This lively plaza right next to Wrigley is packed with pre-game entertainment like concerts, outdoor movie nights, and local pop-up events.

It’s a prime spot to stretch out, grab a snack, and people-watch with fellow fans. Whether or not you have tickets, Gallagher Way brings that electric baseball energy all day long.

Stay Close to the Action and the Cheers

Want to stay steps from the stadium and sleep like a champion?

Score big with hotels nearby like the iconic Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, the ultra-cool Hotel Versey, and fan-favorite Hotel Zachary, which overlooks the ballpark.

Booking close means you can stroll to Wrigley, skip the transit stress, and be back in your room before the post-game crowds hit.

One of the smartest Wrigley Field tips is choosing a stay that keeps you close to the action—and we’ve got the lineup to prove it.

Big League Bites Around the Ballpark

Hungry? You’re in the right neighborhood!

Wrigleyville is loaded with MVP-level eats like the smoky pulled pork at Smoke Daddy, crave-worthy burgers at Small Cheval, and rooftop bites with a view at Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern.

Whether you’re fueling up before first pitch or celebrating a walk-off win, there’s no shortage of home run meals just steps from the stadium.

Ready to Knock Your Chicago Trip Out of the Park?

Few experiences capture the spirit of the city like visiting Wrigley Field. From ballpark tours to game day energy, this legendary spot delivers memories that go way beyond baseball.

As you plan your adventure, don’t sleep on bundling your trip with vacation packages through Tripster to save big.

You’ll find hand-picked deals on Chicago attractions, shows, and hotels that make it easy to build the perfect itinerary.

Less stress, more deep-dish, and a front-row seat to all the action. Now grab your glove, charge your phone, and get ready to play ball!

What Are The Wrigley Field FAQs?