Wrigley Field is the second-oldest ballpark still in use in Major League Baseball
Wrigley Field opened on April 23, 1914, in Chicago's North Side neighborhood. Only Fenway Park in Boston (1912) is older among active MLB stadiums. The ballpark was built as Weeghmans Park for the Chicago Whales of the Federal League, then became home to the Chicago Cubs in 1916 after the Federal League folded. The Cubs have played there ever since.
The stadium sits at 1060 West Addison Street, surrounded by residential blocks and local businesses. Its ivy-covered brick outfield wall and manual scoreboard have become iconic features recognized by baseball fans worldwide. The park holds 41,649 people and has hosted World Series games, no-hitters, and some of the most memorable moments in Cubs history.
Key Takeaways
- Wrigley Field opened in 1914 and is the second-oldest active ballpark in Major League Baseball, with the Cubs as its only tenant since 1916.
- The stadium's most recognizable features are the ivy-covered outfield wall, the manual scoreboard, and the rooftop bleachers that line the streets beyond left field.
- Seating capacity is 41,649, divided into sections with different views and price ranges, from upper deck bleachers to behind-home-plate premium seats.
- The ballpark underwent major renovations between 2014 and 2017, including new video boards, improved concourses, and upgraded facilities while preserving its historic character.
The ivy wall and manual scoreboard that define Wrigley's look
The outfield wall at Wrigley Field is covered with Boston ivy that was planted in 1937. The ivy grows thick during the summer months and turns reddish in the fall. Balls hit into the ivy can be difficult to retrieve, and whether a ball is caught or bounces back into play has been the subject of several memorable plays and disputes over the decades.
The scoreboard in left-center field is operated by hand. A crew of scoreboard operators sits behind the board and updates it manually throughout the game, changing numbers and scores as plays happen. This scoreboard has been in place since 1937 and remains one of the few hand-operated scoreboards in professional baseball. The board displays the game score, inning, outs, balls and strikes, and the scores of other games around the league.
Seating sections and where to sit
Wrigley Field's seating is organized into numbered sections that wrap around the field. The lower bowl (Sections 1–42) sits closest to the field and offers the best views but commands higher ticket prices. The upper deck (Sections 101–142) provides a full view of the field from a higher vantage point. The bleachers in left and right field (Sections 200–203 in left, Sections 204–207 in right) are general admission areas where fans stand and socialize during the game.
The rooftop bleachers are not part of the stadium itself but are located on the roofs of buildings just beyond the left field wall. These seats are sold separately by the building owners and offer an alternative view of the game from outside the ballpark. Tickets to rooftop seats are often less expensive than premium field-level seats but more expensive than upper deck seats.
Behind home plate (Sections 10–14) and along the baselines (Sections 5–9 and 15–19) are the most expensive seats, as they offer the clearest view of the pitcher and batter. Standing room only tickets are sometimes available in the upper deck when other seats sell out.
How to get tickets and what prices typically look like
Tickets are sold through the Cubs' official website, MLB.com's Ticketmaster platform, and resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek. Prices vary widely depending on the opponent, day of the week, and time of year. A weekday game against a non-rival team might have bleacher seats starting around $20–$40, while a weekend game against the St. Louis Cardinals or Milwaukee Brewers could start at $50–$100 or more for the same seats.
Premium seats behind home plate can range from $100 to $500 or higher for popular games. Upper deck seats typically fall between $30 and $150. Rooftop bleacher seats are priced separately by each rooftop operator and usually range from $50 to $200 depending on the game.
The Cubs release single-game tickets on a rolling basis, usually several weeks before each game. Season ticket holders and members of the Cubs' loyalty program get early access. Tickets often sell out for weekend games and games against rival teams, so buying in advance is recommended if you have a specific game in mind.
Parking and public transportation near Wrigley Field
Street parking near Wrigley Field is limited and often requires a residential permit during game days. Several paid parking lots operate within a few blocks of the stadium, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 depending on how close they are to the ballpark. Some lots fill up quickly on popular game days, so arriving early is important if you plan to drive.
Public transportation is a popular option for reaching Wrigley Field. The Chicago "L" (elevated train) Red Line stops at Addison Station, which is one block from the stadium. The trip from downtown Chicago takes about 20 minutes. Several bus routes also serve the area. Using public transit avoids parking hassles and is often cheaper than parking in a lot.
What to bring and what the ballpark rules allow
Wrigley Field allows guests to bring one clear bag (no larger than 16 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches) or one small clutch purse. Cameras with detachable lenses are permitted, but video recording for commercial purposes is not. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the stadium, though you can bring an empty water bottle to fill at fountains.
The Cubs prohibit weapons of any kind, including pocket knives and multi-tools. Drones, laser pointers, and air horns are also banned. Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the ballpark, including the bleachers. The stadium has designated smoking areas outside the gates.
Guests are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before game time to allow time for security screening and to find their seats. Gates typically open 90 minutes before the first pitch.
The 2014–2017 renovations and what changed
Between 2014 and 2017, Wrigley Field underwent a major renovation project that cost over $500 million. The work included installing new video boards in left and right field, expanding the concourse areas to reduce crowding, adding new restrooms and concession stands, and improving accessibility for guests with disabilities. The Cubs also added a new plaza area on the north side of the stadium and improved the exterior facade.
Despite these modern upgrades, the Cubs and MLB made a deliberate effort to preserve the historic character of the ballpark. The ivy wall, manual scoreboard, and the overall shape and feel of the stadium remain unchanged. The renovations were designed to improve the fan experience while keeping Wrigley Field recognizable to fans who have visited for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Wrigley Field?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the stadium. You can bring an empty water bottle to fill at water fountains throughout the ballpark. The stadium has numerous concession stands selling food, drinks, and snacks at typical ballpark prices.
What is the best section to sit in if I want to catch a foul ball?
Foul balls are most likely to land in the lower bowl sections along the baselines and behind home plate. Sections 5–9 (first base side) and 15–19 (third base side) are good choices. The bleachers in left and right field also see foul balls, especially during batting practice before the game starts.
Is there a dress code for attending a game at Wrigley Field?
No official dress code exists. Fans wear everything from casual clothes to Cubs jerseys and team apparel. The weather in Chicago varies by season, so dress appropriately for the time of year. Summer games can be warm during the day but cool in the evening, especially in the upper deck.
How early should I arrive before a game?
The Cubs recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before game time to allow for security screening and to find your seat. For popular games or if you want to watch batting practice, arriving 60–90 minutes early is common. Gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch.
Can I take photos or videos at Wrigley Field?
Personal cameras and phones are permitted for taking photos and videos for personal use. Cameras with detachable lenses are allowed. Commercial video recording or professional photography requires prior permission from the Cubs. Drones are not permitted anywhere in or around the stadium.