Where Soldier Field Is and How to Get There

Soldier Field sits at 1410 Museum Campus Drive in Chicago, on the lakefront just south of downtown. The stadium is home to the Chicago Bears, the NFL team that plays there from September through January most years. You can reach it by car, public transit, or on foot depending on where you are in the city.

If you drive, take Lake Shore Drive south toward the Museum Campus exit. Parking lots surround the stadium, though they fill quickly on game days. Rates vary by lot and by event — expect to pay between $20 and $40 for standard parking. Some lots open earlier than others, so arriving two to three hours before kickoff gives you more options.

The Chicago 'L' (the city's rapid transit system) runs the Red Line directly to the Museum Campus–11th Street station, which is a short walk from the stadium. Buses also serve the area — the 146 and 130 routes stop near Soldier Field. Public transit is often faster than driving on game days because you avoid parking lot traffic.

Key Takeaways

  • Soldier Field is located at 1410 Museum Campus Drive on Chicago's lakefront, south of the downtown Loop.
  • The Red Line 'L' train stops at Museum Campus–11th Street, a five-minute walk from the stadium entrance.
  • Game day parking costs $20 to $40 depending on the lot, and lots fill by mid-afternoon on Sundays.
  • The stadium sits next to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium, so you can plan a full day around a game.
  • Soldier Field has a capacity of about 61,500 and was rebuilt in 2003 with modern seating, climate control, and food options.

What to Bring and What the Stadium Allows

Soldier Field has a clear bag policy: you can bring a clear plastic bag no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, or a small clutch purse (no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches). You cannot bring backpacks, large purses, or bags of any other material, even if they are empty. This policy is enforced at every entrance, so plan to leave other bags at your car or hotel.

You can bring a jacket or sweater, but security will pat you down before you enter. Wear comfortable shoes — you will walk from parking or transit, and the stadium has multiple levels. Bring sunscreen and a hat if you are sitting in the upper deck on a sunny day; there is limited shade at Soldier Field.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the stadium. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside. Food and drink prices inside are typical for an NFL stadium — expect to pay $12 to $18 for a hot dog, $8 to $12 for a beer, and $6 to $10 for a soft drink or water.

Seating Sections and Sightlines

Soldier Field has lower bowl seating (sections 101 through 144) and upper bowl seating (sections 201 through 244). The lower bowl is closer to the field and offers better sightlines, but tickets cost more. The upper bowl is farther back but still provides a clear view of the entire field from most sections.

Corner sections (like 101, 110, 135, 144) give you a view down the sideline. End zone sections (like 103–109 and 136–142) put you behind one end of the field. If you want to see the Bears' bench and the scoreboard clearly, aim for sections on the west side of the stadium (sections 120–135).

The upper deck in the corners can feel steep and far from the action, but the price reflects that. Sections 201–210 and 235–244 are the most affordable upper-bowl seats. If you are sensitive to heights or prefer a closer view, the lower bowl is worth the extra cost.

When Games Are Played and How to Buy Tickets

The Chicago Bears play a 17-game regular season from September through early January. Most games are on Sunday at 1 p.m. or 4 p.m. Chicago time, though some are played on Monday night or Thursday night. The schedule is released in May each year, and you can find it on the NFL website or the Bears' official website.

Tickets are sold through the Bears' official website (chicagobears.com), Ticketmaster, and resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek. Prices vary widely depending on the opponent, the day of the week, and how close the game is to kickoff. A game against a popular rival might cost $100 to $300 per seat, while a less popular matchup might be $30 to $80. Playoff games and the season opener are the most expensive.

Tickets go on sale in July or August for the full season. Single-game tickets usually go on sale in August. If you wait until the week of the game, you may find lower prices on resale sites, but popular games sell out. Buying directly from the Bears or Ticketmaster guarantees you a legitimate ticket; resale sites carry some risk of fraud, though major platforms have buyer protection.

What to Expect on Game Day

Arrive at least two hours before kickoff. Security lines move slowly, especially for popular games, and you want time to find your seat, use the restroom, and grab food before the game starts. The stadium opens its gates 90 minutes before kickoff, but arriving earlier gives you a buffer.

The crowd is loud during plays, especially on third downs when the Bears are on defense. Bring earplugs if you are sensitive to noise, or plan to take breaks in the concourse. The stadium has good cell service, so you can check messages or look up stats during timeouts.

Restrooms and concession stands are located throughout the stadium. Lines for both get long during halftime, so use the restroom before the second half starts if you can. The stadium has modern facilities — not all NFL stadiums do — so the experience is relatively comfortable.

Nearby Attractions and Parking Alternatives

Soldier Field is part of the Museum Campus, which also includes the Field Museum (natural history), the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium. If you are visiting Chicago for a game, you can spend the day exploring these attractions before heading to the stadium. All three are within a 10-minute walk.

Grant Park is directly north of Soldier Field and has walking paths, beaches (in summer), and open green space. If you arrive very early, you can walk through the park before the game. The lakefront path is scenic and a good way to burn time before kickoff.

If you want to avoid stadium parking, you can park in Grant Park or at a nearby parking garage and walk to Soldier Field. Grant Park parking is often cheaper than stadium lots and gives you flexibility if you want to explore the area before or after the game. The walk is about 10 to 15 minutes depending on where you park.

Accessibility and Special Services

Soldier Field has accessible seating for people with mobility disabilities, and companion seats are available next to accessible spots. You can request accessible parking in the lots closest to the stadium. To reserve accessible seating, contact the Bears' ticket office at least two weeks before the game.

The stadium has elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated family restrooms. Service animals are allowed inside the stadium. If you need information, staff members are stationed throughout the building and can direct you to services or help you find your seat.

Hearing loop systems are available in some sections for people who use hearing aids. Ask an usher when you arrive if you need this service. The stadium also offers closed captioning on the main scoreboard for some announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food or drinks into Soldier Field?

No, outside food and beverages are not allowed. You can bring an empty water bottle and refill it at fountains inside the stadium. Food and drinks must be purchased at concession stands within Soldier Field.

What is the best way to get to Soldier Field without a car?

The Red Line 'L' train is the fastest option — take it to Museum Campus–11th Street, which is a five-minute walk from the stadium. Buses 146 and 130 also serve the area. Both are cheaper and faster than driving and parking on game days.

How early should I arrive for a game?

Arrive at least two hours before kickoff. Gates open 90 minutes before the game, but security lines move slowly on popular game days. Arriving early gives you time to find your seat, use the restroom, and get food without rushing.

Are there cheaper tickets available if I wait until game day?

Sometimes. Less popular games may have lower prices on resale sites like StubHub the week of the game. However, popular matchups and playoff games sell out, so waiting is risky. Buying early from the Bears' official website or Ticketmaster guarantees availability.

What should I wear to a Bears game in winter?

Wear warm layers, a heavy coat, a hat, and gloves. Soldier Field is outdoors and on the lakefront, so wind and cold are common from November through January. The stadium does not have much shelter from weather, so dress warmer than you think you need.