Where To Park For Cubs Game Options

Where to Park for a Cubs Game: Your Complete Guide

Heading to Wrigleyville to cheer on the Chicago Cubs? That’s awesome! But before you start singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” you need to figure out where to park. Parking near Wrigley Field can be tricky, but don’t worry! This guide will walk you through all your options, from official lots to neighborhood streets, helping you find the perfect spot for your game day adventure. We’ll talk about prices, walking distances, and even some tips to make your parking experience a breeze.

Official Wrigley Field Parking Lots

The Chicago Cubs have a few official parking lots that are close to the stadium. These lots are convenient because they’re the closest you can get to the action. But they also tend to be the most expensive and they fill up quickly. It’s often a good idea to purchase your parking pass online before the game. Let’s take a closer look at these official options:

Lot A: The Toyota Camry Lot

The Toyota Camry Lot is a big lot that is just a short walk from Wrigley Field. It’s known for being one of the most convenient options, particularly for people coming from the west and north. It’s a very popular choice so if you plan on using this parking option, be sure to buy your pass in advance.

• Pros: Extremely close to the stadium, fast access to the ballpark, a good choice for families with young children.
• Cons: The most expensive option, sells out quickly, can be difficult to get out of after the game because of the traffic.

Lot H: The Irving Park Lot

This parking lot, located further from the stadium than the Toyota Camry Lot, offers some more affordable rates than lot A. It’s a good balance between price and walking distance. It’s generally a little less congested after the game.

• Pros: Moderately priced, manageable walk to the stadium, sometimes a bit easier to leave after the game.
• Cons: Slightly further walk than the Toyota Camry Lot, still might have traffic after the game.

Lot W: The Belmont Avenue Lot

The Belmont Avenue Lot is a more economical option for parking. It’s situated east of the stadium. It takes a bit more walking time than the previous mentioned options, but it’s easier on the wallet. It’s suitable for people who don’t mind a little extra exercise.

• Pros: More affordable than Lots A and H, tends to be a bit less congested than the other official lots
• Cons: A longer walk to Wrigley Field, you may have to pass through some crowds and pedestrian traffic.

Parking Garages Near Wrigley Field

Besides the official lots, there are several parking garages near Wrigleyville. These are often a solid choice if the official lots are full or if you’re looking for a covered parking option. Here are a few to consider:

SP+ Parking Garage at 1050 W Addison St

This parking garage is located right next to the stadium and offers several parking spaces. While it is very convenient, it tends to be more expensive than garages that are farther from the stadium. It also fills up fast during game days. This garage tends to be a great spot if you don’t mind a higher rate for extreme proximity to Wrigley.

Parking Garage at 1100 W. Addison St

Located just a bit west of Wrigley Field, this garage offers a good balance between proximity to the game and a slightly reduced price. If you can’t get into an official lot and want to be close, this is a safe option.

Parking Garage at 3740 N. Clark St

A bit further south, near the heart of Wrigleyville’s vibrant commercial district, this garage gives you easy access to all the pre- and post-game activities. While the walk to the park is a little longer, it is still within walking distance, and you will avoid the most intense stadium traffic.

Parking Garage at 938 W Grace Street

If you want a more affordable option that is a bit more removed from the Wrigley madness, check out the parking garage on West Grace Street. It provides a bit more space and potentially less congestion for leaving after the game. You may need to walk a bit further but it’s a good choice for saving money and stress.

Tips for Garage Parking:

• Check Prices Ahead: Prices at parking garages can vary, especially on game days. It’s good to use an app like SpotHero, ParkWhiz or the garage’s website to see what the rates are.
• Book in Advance: If possible, try booking your space before you go. This will help make sure you have a space and could save some money.
• Read Reviews: Before choosing a garage, take a look at online reviews to see what other people’s experiences have been like.

Street Parking Around Wrigleyville

Street parking around Wrigley Field is available, but it can be very challenging to find a spot on game days. You will need some patience and a bit of luck. This option also requires an understanding of Chicago’s parking rules, as well as knowledge of parking enforcement policies. However, if you’re on a tight budget, it could be worth exploring. Here are the basics:

Residential Streets

Many streets within walking distance of Wrigleyville are residential and they have metered parking spots or require a city residential permit to park. Some might have time limits, and others might be open to everyone on game days, but it varies based on the specific location. Always double check the signs when parking in residential areas.

• Pros: Cheapest option.
• Cons: Finding a spot can be very hard, time limits could be imposed, parking rules are strict.

Metered Parking

The city of Chicago offers metered parking throughout the Wrigleyville neighborhood. These spots might be available, but you will have to pay the hourly fee. These fees might be higher than on normal days. These meters usually have some time limits that must be adhered to. Failure to pay or if you park beyond the time limits, will result in a ticket. Be very aware of where you park and make sure you pay the fee.

• Pros: Usually more affordable than lots or garages, widely available if you are lucky
• Cons: Time limits apply, can be expensive, you may need to refill the meter.

Tips for Street Parking

• Arrive Early: If you want to get a street spot, you’ll need to arrive a few hours before the game. The earlier the better, as parking will disappear the closer it gets to game time.
• Read the Signs Carefully: Chicago has strict parking rules, so look at all the signs to make sure that you’re not parked somewhere that’s illegal. Check for permit parking restrictions, street cleaning times, and other limitations. Pay close attention to the parking signs and what they say.
• Be Patient: Finding street parking can be hard, so make sure you are calm, collected, and patient. Don’t lose hope, and keep looking!
• Use a Parking App: Many apps can help you locate available street parking spots in real time. They may also allow you to pay the parking meter from your phone. Consider downloading an app before your visit to Wrigleyville.

Alternative Transportation Options

If you’d rather not deal with the stress of parking, consider alternative ways to get to Wrigley Field. Here are a few options:

Public Transportation

Chicago’s public transportation system, the CTA, is a great way to get to the game. The Red Line train has a stop at Addison, which is just a few blocks from Wrigley Field. Using public transit avoids traffic congestion and reduces your parking concerns.

• Pros: Avoids traffic and parking fees, it is environmentally friendly, it’s a safe and efficient option
• Cons: Can be crowded on game days, you may need to walk a short distance, may not be convenient for families with small children.

Ride-Sharing Services

Using a ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft, is an easy option for getting to the game. It can take you right to the heart of Wrigleyville without needing to find parking or use public transport. It can be a convenient option for groups who do not have their own vehicles.

• Pros: No parking to worry about, very convenient, a good option for groups
• Cons: Surge pricing can be a big issue, could be some delays in picking you up or dropping you off

Biking

If you’re close enough, riding your bike to the game is a great way to avoid the traffic and parking issues. Wrigleyville has bike racks located around the stadium. This can also be a great way to get some extra exercise before you get to the game.

• Pros: Free, good exercise, avoids traffic, environment friendly
• Cons: Weather dependent, you will need to bring your own bike, bike racks could be limited.

Accessibility Parking

If you have a valid disability placard or license plate, there are some reserved parking spots near Wrigley Field. These spots are usually located in the official lots or in the surrounding streets. Make sure to get there early to find these spots, since they fill up quickly. Make sure you have all your proper documentation so that you can be allowed to park in the spots reserved for people with disabilities.

Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience

Here are some extra tips to make your Cubs parking experience better:

• Plan Ahead: Research your options and make a parking plan before game day. Book ahead if you can.
• Arrive Early: It’s always better to get to Wrigleyville earlier to avoid the traffic and the rush to find parking.
• Be Patient: Parking near Wrigley can be tricky, so try to stay relaxed and patient and enjoy the game.
• Consider Walking Distance: Balance cost and the distance that you’re willing to walk.
• Use Parking Apps: Use parking apps to find and book spaces. These apps can save time and stress.
• Check for Road Closures: Be aware that some streets near Wrigleyville might close on game days, so plan for road closures and detours.
• Have a Backup Plan: If your first parking choice does not work out, have a backup option that you have in mind, so you won’t panic if your first option is unavailable.

With some planning and research, parking near Wrigley Field doesn’t have to be a huge challenge. By using this guide and the tips we have provided, you’ll be able to find a spot that works best for you. This will allow you to focus on what really matters – cheering on the Cubs!
Enjoy the game!