is the wrigley field tour worth it

Wrigley Field Tours

Review Highlights

“ Loved this tour getting to stand next to the iconic ivy, touring the stadium, press box , locker room and dugout. ” in 47 reviews

“ If you do the tour when Cubs aren't in town, they will let you also see the dugout and players locker rooms. ” in 47 reviews

“ At each spot he shared so many fun facts, historical items, and honestly some funny stories about the stadium . ” in 25 reviews

Location & Hours

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1060 W Addison St

Chicago, IL 60613

Seminary Ave & Clark St

Lakeview, Wrigleyville

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Is there a place to park? And if so, how much? Thanks!

There is parking on quite a few streets within walking distance. They are meters on the street. There are also garages around the area, price depends on time of day/game day. I think we paid $13 to park in the garage and was there for about 4-5… more

Do they have tours in the off season?

Yes they do! Rain or shine they will have them. Mostly on weekends for off-season tours.

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Overall rating

117 reviews

Lots of great memories here... And made even more today! My brother and I took our 87 year old father on the Wrigley Field Tour today. It was fantastic. Such a great and rare opportunity to see this historic park from vantage points we've only dreamed of until today. But a special thanks to the staff and crew. They couldn't have been friendlier or more helpful. And that goes for every person we met from the time we stepped foot on the grounds. Our tour guide, Clay was terrific. His knowledge, his delivery, his sense of humour all added to our enjoyment. Special thanks to Shauna, as well, who stayed back with us as we were a little slower and needed a bit more help getting around. I'll be back and will bring my kids and grandkids in the future! Thanks Wrigley Field Tours

Great tour, great experience. Tours are about 90 minutes and are held on both game days and non-game days. On non-game days, you will have access to more areas of the park, including the press box, visitor's locker room, and outfield ivy. All of these make the tour more worth it overall so try to target attending on a non-game day. I don't think the tour would be worth it on a game day. Buy tickets online to secure your spot. Prices are $30 + about $10 worth in hidden fees! So total is about $40 a person. They really need to advertise the price as $40 instead of tacking on $10 in hidden fees at checkout. The Cubs have full control of how the prices are advertised and they are better than that! On non-game days, it appears there are tours departing every hour or so starting at 10 or 10:30 AM. I took the 10:30 tour on a weekend and there were about 50 people total. Tours occur rain or shine, but check the forecast as it will be much more enjoyable on a nice day. Tours begin right on time and they will not wait for you so arrive 5-10 min early. They did not take us to the dugout on this particular day, despite advertising that on the website. Not sure why.

See all photos from Jordan H. for Wrigley Field Tours

I highly recommend the Wrigley Field tour! Our guide was Ruben, and he was very entertaining and engaging. The stadium was incredible, and I learned a lot of interesting facts. Ruben had such great stories. I highly recommend taking the tour!

Our tour guide, Ruben.

My sister and I toured the stadium on our last trip to Chicago. It was such a cool experience especially if you are a baseball fan! It's $30 per person and free for children under 2 y/o. If you go on a non-game day you will get to see a lot more. It was snowing this day so there was only 5 of us on the tour. Being in a smaller group was more enjoyable because we didn't have to wait on a lot of people. Our tour guide was very funny and knowledgeable about all of the history. Would definitely recommend.

See all photos from Angela V. for Wrigley Field Tours

I don't have much to say. What a thrill, to tour a ballpark around since 1914. The docent was from another era, an Irishman who had witnessed the bleacher bums. He knew all about his Cubbies. Everyone here was in awe, appreciating the history. God bless Chicago and these Cubs.

See all photos from David O. for Wrigley Field Tours

My Mom and I had such a great tour with Larry! He greeted us right as we got in line and made sure we had a comfortable experience (due to some mobility constraints). It felt like a tour personalized just for the two of us. Larry is friendly, incredibly informative, gracious and kind. We were blown away. The entire staff was spot on. Cory in the visitor locker room was also great and chatted with us for a few minutes about his experiences working at Wrigley Field. It was a huge highlight of my Mom's visit. Thank you Larry!

This is an awesome tour of a great and historic American baseball venue.  Having been a Cubs fan for virtually all of my life, it was delightful to finally take the time to do a formal tour here.  Besides enjoying a walk to various scenic points around the park on a beautiful day and when it was empty, and hearing some of Wrigley Field's history, I most enjoyed the humorous, interesting, and entertaining stories and anecdotes from our guide Cooper, many to most of which I had never heard.  You'll have to go on the tour yourself to hear the stories.  Our comfortably sized group of 22 visited lecture points in the lower deck, upper deck, and bleachers, got onto the field in the right field corner, and into the Cubs dugout. Why 4 stars and not 5 then for the tour?  My main gripe and feedback, for which I docked a star and was thinking even a 2 star hit, was that the advertised pricing for the tour is ridiculously misleading.  The "$30" tour went to $38.95 upon online checkout, and in the end I found that pretty disgusting and borderline false advertising.  It's not like the Cubs are dealing with a third party for tickets like a StubHub or Ticketmaster, or a secondary ticket market.  Advertise what it will cost (duh!) and like most consumers I'll accept tax, but not 30% in total adders!  Even StubHub now shows ticket prices "with estimated fees" (and probably because their consumers demanded it as they felt the same way I did) and though they also charge a ridiculous ~30% fee. Upon online checkout, you will see on your $30 tour ticket: Amusement tax:  $2.70 Bullshit per-ticket fee:  $2.25 Bullshit order processing fee:  $4.00 I did learn at the box office that you will save the $4 "processing" fee if you buy at the box office on the day of the tour, but you're taking a chance of a sold-out tour by not booking in advance.  I would have given a 5 star Yelp rating and still went if they just said $39 for the tour, period. Anyway, rant over.  If you're any sort of a Chicago sports or history fan, I would still highly recommend this entertaining, interesting, and informative tour!

See all photos from Howard L. for Wrigley Field Tours

Very cool experience if you're a cubs or baseball fan! Got to see a lot and hear a lot of history. Our tour guide, Tom, was the best!

Wrigley field from press box

This is probably one of the best stadium tours I have ever been on and I am not a cubs fan. Now this tour began at the historic entrance of the stadium beneath the giant marquee. This was during the off season so all the bathrooms are closed. Meaning use the McDonald's or Taco Bell's one across the street prior to the start of the tour. Arrive early but also they don't let you inside the stadium until 5 minutes prior. Once you're inside they will check your tickets and have you go through a traditional security checkpoint. Now my tour started by my guide taking us near the 3rd foul line and he sat us down. He then spoke for about 15-20 minutes about the history of the 2nd oldest ballpark in mlb. He shared how much it's grown and everything. We then walked over the bleachers followed by going into the visitor's bullpen. At each spot he shared so many fun facts, historical items, and honestly some funny stories about the stadium. From there we did the walk up to the visitor clubhouse where it was awesome to be in the same room that so many people have been. We also got to see the press box and finished in the dugout on the field. Truly and incredible 90 minute tour. It was incredible because of the fact we got to see the stadium and learn it's rich history too. Highly recommend this tour to everyone!

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• Wrigley Field Tours

2024 Wrigley Field Tours are on sale now!

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours!

In just 90 minutes, you can experience the beauty, charm and historic features fans have come to know and love, all while learning about our majestic ballpark that has captivated baseball fans for more than 100 years.

Public Tours

What you will see on a public tour, non-gameday tours:.

• Seating Bowl
• Outfield Ivy
• Visiting Clubhouse

GAMEDAY TOURS:

• Seating bowl

Length of an public tour

The guided tour lasts 75-90 minutes. Tours include outdoor stops and are conducted in rain or shine. Please dress accordingly.

Individuals: $30 (plus tax) Children under 2 years old: FREE

Please note all tour stops and locations are subject to availability.

Private Tour

Take an exclusive tour through the Friendly Confines with your own personal tour guide.

Ticket Information:

Groups up to 50: $1,500 (plus tax) Larger groups can be accommodated, but may be split up depending on size.

Call 773-388-8270 or email [email protected] to inquire about booking a private tour.

Educational Tour

We invite schools and camps to join us on our discounted Educational Tours at Wrigley Field.

The cost for groups of 30 or more is $15 per person (plus tax).

Discounted group rates are applicable for weekday tour dates only. These rates are unavailable on Saturday or Sunday.

Call 773-388-8270 or email [email protected] to inquire about booking an educational tour.

Testimonials

"I think every baseball fan must go see Wrigley. The stories I learned while on the tour, I've been telling friends and family since I came back."

"The BEST all-around baseball game experience I have EVER had … and I am a Dodger fan by the way!"

"To walk on the grounds and sit in the dugout where Ron Santo and Ernie Banks sat ... surreal!!"

"It gave the iconic ballpark even more depth than just attending a game."

"It's such an iconic place, synonymous with Chicago. A visit to the city would be incomplete without a visit to Wrigley Field."

"(Our tour guide) was a wonderful guide. He was friendly, funny and very knowledgeable. I thought going into the dugout and being on the field was very special. I thought that the visitors' locker room was fun despite its humble appearance based on the historical significance of everyone who had been there. Really great tour. I have told everybody about it."

Frequently Asked Questions

Tour schedule:.

If I can't find a specific tour date on the tour schedule, does that mean it is sold out or there are no tours being offered on that specific date?

If the date is not on the tour schedule then we are not offering tours on that date at this time. If the date is available but says "sold out" or "error" when you try to purchase tickets, that means we are having tours that day but the time you have selected is sold out and you must select another time to take the tour. If you are still having trouble, please feel free to contact us at 773-388-8270.

Will there be additional dates added throughout the season?

It is possible additional dates will be added throughout the tour season. Please visit Cubs.com/Tours for the most up-to-date tour schedule.

What happens to my tickets if my tour is rescheduled?

If your tour is rescheduled, your tickets will be redeemable for the new tour time and date. If you are unable to attend the rescheduled tour, you will be refunded for the face-value of your ticket. You will be personally contacted if this occurs.

Purchasing Tickets:

Can I purchase tickets on the day of my tour?

You may purchase tickets on the day of your tour; however, tour sizes are limited so we recommend you purchase tickets in advance.

Do children 2 years old or younger need a ticket even though they are free?

Children 2 years old or younger are free and do not require a ticket to enter the ballpark.

What does the seat number on my ticket mean?

The only purpose of the seat number on your ticket is to help keep track of the number of tour guests on each tour. As a guest, you do not have to worry about the seat number.

How do I receive my tickets once I have purchased them?

Wrigley Field Tour tickets will be delivered exclusively as mobile tickets via the free MLB Ballpark app. Please note you must have the latest version of the free MLB Ballpark app downloaded on your mobile device to access and use Wrigley Field Tour tickets. For more information on mobile ticketing and the MLB Ballpark app, visit Cubs.com/Ballparkapp .

Group Tour Info:

What is the maximum size group that Wrigley Field Tours can accommodate?

We can accommodate groups of all sizes. If you are interested in a private tour for your group, please call 773-388-8270.

General Questions:

When should I arrive for my tour?

We suggest that you arrive approximately 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start time of your tour.

Where do I check in for my tour?

Public tours will begin and end at the Gallagher Way gate, located on the west side of the ballpark.

What if it rains on the day of my tour?

Tours are conducted in rain or shine so please dress accordingly.

Are cameras or video cameras allowed on the tour?

Yes, we encourage the use of cameras and video cameras during tours for personal, non-commercial use only.

How long is the tour?

Tours are approximately 75-90 minutes long.

Directions/Parking:

How do I get to Wrigley Field?

Please select the following link for driving directions: Click here for driving directions

Where is bus parking?

Bus drivers can drop off tour guests at the corner of Clark and Addison streets. After unloading, buses should proceed north on Clark Street and take a right on Irving Park Road. Bus drivers can idle on Irving Park Road for the duration of the tour before picking tour guests back up on the corner of Clark and Addison streets.

How far is Wrigley Field from downtown Chicago?

Wrigley Field is approximately 5 miles from downtown Chicago. The time it takes to get here can vary depending on method of transportation, traffic and exactly where you are coming from.

What should I do if I am in a wheelchair or I am coming with someone in a wheelchair?

Wrigley Field Tours are wheelchair accessible; however, certain areas may have limited or no access to tour guests in wheelchairs, including the Cubs dugout.

What if I need a wheelchair or I am coming with someone who may need a wheelchair?

Wheelchairs are available for use upon request. Please inform your tour guide you are in need of one upon arriving for your tour.

What if I am hearing impaired and need an ASL interpreter for the tour?

Please call us at least 48 hours prior to your tour at 773-388-8270 and we will be happy to provide an ASL interpreter for you during your tour.

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Wrigley Field Tours: Seeing Cubs History Up Close

Aug 07, 2018

When it comes to Chicago landmarks, perhaps none is so loved as Wrigley Field.

Step inside this historic stadium on a Wrigley Field Tour  and learn what makes this ballpark unique from guides who bleed Cubbie blue.

On these 75- to 90-minute tours, you will have the opportunity to sit in the fan-favorite bleachers, view the field from the press box, enter the clubhouses where your favorite players have been, and even step out onto the hallowed field.  Whether you’re a fan of the Chicago Cubs, baseball in general, or just Chicago history, the 90 minutes you'll spend on a Wrigley Field tour is time well spent. Here’s a few highlights from my recent game-day tour.

NOTE : Game day tours — like mine — allow for stops at the 100-level seats that are closest to the field; the Budweiser bleachers; upper-deck seating; and a chance to walk on the field just behind home plate. Non-game day tours, which cost an additional $10, allow for stops at all of the above, as well as the Cubs’ dugout, the visitors’ clubhouse, and the press box.

Gathering just outside of the new The Park at Wrigley prior to our 9 a.m. tour, the energy was high. Visitors from Chicago, Detroit, New Jersey, Texas, and even Brazil were all eager to soak up the knowledge behind the brick and ivy — and yes, that is the same ivy that was planted in 1937. Even as a die-hard  White Sox  fan, I was excited to get a behind-the-scenes look at the park where Babe Ruth hit his famous called shot, where there is still a hand-operated scoreboard, and where at one point the record was held for most NFL games in a single stadium.

Stepping onto Wrigley Field

One question many have when taking a Wrigley Field tour: can I step onto the field? Turns out you can — just not onto the grass. Our journey started with the opportunity to take photos on the field near the on-deck circle and behind home plate.

As we meandered our way down the bleachers, up the ramps, and to the upper decks, the guide totally immersed us with fascinating info. Who knew the location was originally a Lutheran Seminary? That the once-abandoned lot was purchased for $250,000 and ready for opening day in 1914 after just five weeks of construction? That every sport has been played on the field (including ski jumping)? Or that the team’s original name was supposed to be the Chicago Chickens? We also learned about two staples of American sporting events that were started right here at Wrigley: concession stands and the playing of the singing of the National Anthem before games.

Slices of Wrigley History

Perhaps the most interesting story was the origin of the phrase “that came out of left field.” Legend has it that this phrase was born at the ballpark the Cubs played at before Wrigley was built (it’s actually on DePaul University’s campus). Beyond the left field wall was a psychiatric hospital. The building was without air conditioning, so in the summer the windows would be open. Some of the patients would watch the game and some would occasionally make strange noises that, to the fans… came out of left field.

Another fun fact: the colors of Wrigley Field's famous marquee came from a request by legendary Chicago Bears coach George Halas (the Bears played at Wrigley from 1921 to 1970). Originally painted green and gold, the marquee had to be changed to Cubbie blue and white when Halas lobbied the Wrigley family to repaint it, as its colors were too close to a dreaded rival: the Green Bay Packers.

Next up was a trip to the famous bleachers, where we learned more stadium history. Beyond the famous ivy growing on the outfield walls, one of Wrigley Field's most recognizable landmarks is the iconic manual scoreboard at center field. To this day, men spend each game climbing ladders inside the scoreboard, changing the score to reflect the action on field and around the leagues.

We also got a fascinating history lesson in the flags around the top of the stadium. The Cubs have a history of not winning many pennants (until 2016, of course), so the flags commemorate special dates and records at Wrigley, including players’ single-season achievements. Examples include the 20 KW flag for Kerry Wood and the inspiring JR 42, which flies in honor of Jackie Robinson, as Wrigley Field is the last standing stadium in which he played. The high point of visiting the bleachers was the story of the “bleacher bum” races. I won't ruin the fun here — but if you've ever wondered why there are now baskets that run below the outfield walls, you'll love it when the guide explains the reasons why.

Our last stop on our game day tour was a trek to upper deck — a perfect end to this engaging tour, seeing the tens of thousands of empty green seats as grounds crew prepared for today’s game. It was a refreshing change of pace from the bustle of a baseball game. Standing there, looking out over this hallowed ballpark, now empty and calm, as if paying reverence to its generations of cheering crowds, only added to my appreciation of its rich history.

How to Book a Wrigley Field Tour

For more information on Wrigley Field Tours, including how to book tickets, visit the   Chicago Cubs website .

Where to Stay Near Wrigley Field

The recently constructed   Hotel Zachary at Gallagher Way   lies at the same corner of Wrigley Field, Addison and Clark, putting you right in the heart of Wrigleyville.

by Amber Holst of  Concierge Preferred

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8 Reasons to Visit Wrigley Field

Baseball season is in full swing, and it’s a good year for Cubs fans. Still, the iconic Wrigley Field has more to offer than bats, baseballs and cheering fans (though those things are great as well).

Here are 8 Reasons to Visit Wrigley Field:

1) The Cubs

If you bleed Cubbie blue, but have yet to make it to a game, GET TO WRIGLEY FIELD! With a current record of 73-54, 2015 could finally be the year of the Cubbies!

2) Historical Wrigley Field

Wrigley is the oldest ballpark in the National League. It’s also the first place that played The Star Spangled Banner before sporting events. Did you know that the Chicago Bears used to play football at Wrigley Field many years ago? Wrigley is currently the record holder for highest scoring game in baseball (Cubs vs. Phillies 26-23).

3) Revamping

If you’ve been to Wrigley Field in the past, you’ll want to pay it a visit again soon because it’s getting a makeover! One stride at a time, renovations are being made to include new clubs, bleacher expansions (while maintaining the historical charm signature to Wrigley Field) expanded bathroom areas, and more.

4) Daily Tours

Admit it, we all have a little “tourist” tendency engrained in us. If you’re new to Chicago, visiting, or a native looking for something fun to do, Wrigley Field offers daily tours! For $25, you get a 1 1/2 hour tour of Wrigley. You’ll get to experience a view from the bleachers, Cubs dugout, infield, press box, and more.

5) Food and Beer

It’s a general rule that when you’re at a baseball game, you must get a hot dog! Chicago dogs are the best in the country, by far, and Wrigley Field has you covered. Ranging from “Chicago style” Vienna Beef hot dogs to Bratwursts with sauerkraut, there is a dog for everyone. If hot dogs aren’t your thing, there are snacks like peanuts, popcorn, and pizza available as well. In the adult beverage department, you can enjoy your favorite brews or try something new, as Wrigley Field has a wide variety of beverage choices including gluten free Red Bridge, draft beers, vodka lemonade, 312 Urban Wheat, and, when in season, hot chocolate & peppermint schnapps. YUM.

Philanthropy is what makes the world go round. Cubs Charities were founded in the early 1980’s and continue to thrive today through fundraising efforts from generous Cubs fans, corporate sponsors, and players. You can participate in the Cubs Charities while visiting Wrigley Field, too. Opportunities include marquee/scoreboard messages, Cubs MVP experiences, or signature events such as Race to Wrigley, Bricks and Ivy Ball, Cook-Off for Cancer, Strike a Chord, and more.

7) Concerts

Not into baseball? Wrigley Field is home to concerts as well! Upcoming concerts in September 2015 include: Zac Brown Band on 9/11 and AC/DC on 9/15. More concerts will be added during the spring-fall seasons, so keep checking back for your favorite bands!

8) Location

If you’ve enjoyed your day at Wrigley Field, but aren’t quite ready to call it a night, rejoice because the Wrigleyville night life is phenomenal! Most bars in the area surrounding area are Chicago Cubs themed sports bars, like Red Ivy, but some also offer live music, such as the Cubby Bear. Make it your bucket list goal to check out Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois at some point this season!

Photo Credit: Chicago Sun Times

About Author

27-year-old hairstylist, mom, and country music journalist for CMchatlive.com. Bears and Blackhawks fan. Lover of laughter, caffeine, and adventure.

Wrigley Field Chicago – Tips and Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

Take me out to the ball game! The rush of catching a foul ball, that first sip of beer, and the charm of a hand turned scoreboard. Nothing beats the thrill of your first visit to Wrigley Field. Become part of the Chi-town baseball tradition when you secure Cubs games tickets.

Follow along to discover everything you need to know about Wrigley Field Chicago.

Inmesh yourself in the storied history of one of the United States’ most beloved baseball parks when you experience the excitement of day games and glimpse the famous ivy covered outfield walls.

Load up on Cubs news, plan your next Wrigley Field Christmas, or explore the Friendly Confines of the North Side of Chicago .

Whether you are searching for ‘hotels near wrigley field’ or are wondering if the left field bleachers are a great place to sit, we’ve covered it all.

Whatever your Wrigley Field fantasies, our guide will give you the 411 on this field of dreams.

Wrigley Field History

Ready to join your fellow bleacher bums and become part of Major League Baseball history? Sit tight, because Cubs Park contains a colorful heritage stretching back over a hundred years. Designed by architect Zacahry Taylor Davis, the stadium first opened in 1914 as Weeghman Park. It was game ready by April 23, 1914, at which point the original tenants, the Chicago Whales played the home opener.

The Whales would come in second in the Federal League rankings in 1914. This team would fold by 1915, and on April 20,1916 the Cubs would play their very first home game at Wrigley and triumph over the Cincinnati Reds. Located in the North Side community, Wrigley Field is the oldest park in the National league and the only remaining Federal League park.

Wrigley’s tenure as owner of the Cubs would end in 1981 when the Tribune Company purchased the club from the Wrigley family, ending the longest continuous operation of a franchise by the same family in one city. Since 2009, the Ricketts Family has owned 95% interest in the Cubs. Today, the park is a designated National Historic Landmark and considered a Chicago ‘must see.’

Wrigley Field Games

Chomping at the bit for the Cubs opening day? Snag a peek at the Chicago Cubs Schedule here , or combine your day of clutch hits and cracker jacks with one of the stadium’s famous Wrigley Field Tours .

Chicago Cubs Tickets

Batter up! From seats above home plate to optimal spots above center field, there are no bad views in the Friendly Confines. Snag a rooftop seat courtesy of a nearby building, or catch wind of all the Chicago Cubs news and gossip from die hard bleacher fans.

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Take a gander at the official Wrigley Field seating chart here , and decide for yourself what are the best seats at Wrigley Field. Once you’re ready to witness that famous red marquee for yourself, purchase your Chicago Cub tickets . From single day games to Summer Night Specials and group options, there are plenty of ways to join the Cub fandom.

Wrigley Field Parking

Beep Beep! America’s pastime should be about the thrill of the game, not the pursuit of a parking spot. Make sure you spend your time comparing baseball stats and chowing down on Chi-town dogs. Not trolling the streets for a space when you heed our Wrigley Field parking tips:

• The Chicago Cubs care about the environment and so should you! Driving to the game means encountering a ton of traffic, so the Cubs strongly encourage the use of public transportation for events at Wrigley Field.
• Wrigley Field guests can find easy transportation by using Metra Trains, Pace shuttle buses and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains.
• Additionally, rideshare options are also a convenient and economical way to arrive at the game.
• Still got your heart set on driving? The Cubs provide a variety of parking options  for all events at Wrigley Field. All of these lots are cashless and are easy in and easy out. Spots can also be booked in advance through SpotHero.
• For more parking questions and or concerns, fans can contact the services team at: 1-773-388-8270.

Wrigley Field Food

Popcorn, bratwurst, and cracker jacks, oh my! While the Wrigley Field concessions may be fairly standard, you can still find plenty of game day worthy snacks within the Friendly Confines. However, hungry patrons hankering for a more robust meal will discover a plethora of restaurants near Wrigley Field.

Indeed, in recent years the Wrigleyville neighborhood has had a culinary renaissance. Fans can sample craft brews, world famous wings, slow cooked BBQ, and more:

• Uncommon Ground  – what once began as a charming coffee shop has grown into a mecca for local art, live music, and the first organic brewery in the state of Illinois. Delve into steak and eggs, vegan caesar salads, or Helen’s famous grilled chicken sandwich paired with a Mutti’s Kolsch.
• Toons Bar & Grill  – a friendly bar located just steps from the field, thirsty patrons can hightail it here for ice cold drafts, juicy Black Angus Burgers, tater tot baskets, and their iconic Jumbo wings.

Related Post: Famous Restaurants in Chicago: A Foodie’s In-Depth Guide

• Big Star – looking to switch up your game day nachos and fries for some more picante fare? Take on a whole mess of tacos when you feast at Big Star. Now with a Wrigleyville location, Cubs fans can sample al pastor, pollo, and pescado tacos prior to the game.
• Murphy’s Bleachers  – a Wrigleyville staple for over 80 years, Murphy’s is home to the legendary Bleacher Bums, tons of Cubs memorabilia, and made from scratch chili. Tuck into an order of creamy chipotle mac and cheese, or keep it handheld with Polish sausage.
• Smoke Daddy  – lip smacking, slow cooked BBQ is what’s on the menu at Smoke Daddy. Refuel after a home game with a platter of Chicago style spare ribs or smoked brisket and burnt ends.
• Mordecai – feeling fancy? Trade in peanuts and cheap beer for craft cocktails when you dine at Mordecai. Elevate your Cubs cuisine experience with an order of charcuterie, wagyu beef tartare, or pork belly porchetta.

Fun Things at Wrigley Field

Hey there shortstop! True Wrigley fans know that the buck doesn’t stop at baseball. In fact, many non sporting events are held at Wrigley Field throughout the year. Wrigley Field concerts  are legendary and attract top talent such as Bruce Springsteen, P!NK, and Guns N’ Roses.

Check out the latest musical offerings, or wait until the winter months for a special Wrigley Field Christmas. Last year the stadium was transformed into a glittering winter wonderland courtesy of Gallagher Way. Visitors on the hunt for even more holiday treats and cheer can also stop by the traditional German Christkindlmarket hosted in Wrigleyville each year.

Hotels Near Wrigley Field Chicago

Not lucky enough to call the Windy City home? If you are on the hunt for Chicago Hotels near Wrigley Field, you’re about to score a home run. We offer up a number of downtown Chicago Hotels located just mere minutes from the stadium.

Savor modern furnishings and a continental breakfast, or keep things classic with a stay at The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center . Wherever you rest your head, you’ll be just a stones throw from the Navy Pier, Millenium Park, and Wrigley Field.

Psst..still scrolling for the top things to do closest to Wrigley Field? Check out our entire array of incredible Chicago Things to Do and couple your major league baseball game with a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago or a Bikes, Bites, & Brews tour .

Nowhere are sports and history more intertwined than the Windy City. Fiercely loyal, Chicago Cubs have made a lifetime of supporting their team and trekking to Wrigley Field for languid afternoons and evenings of baseball, bratwurst, and fly balls.

An integral part of the MLB legacy, even baseball newbies will be enchanted by Wrigley’s old school scoreboard and famous ivy backdrop.

Spot the point in centerfield where Babe Ruth hammered his iconic 1932 shot. Or wrangle your way onto a rooftop seat.

However you choose to take in this holy hall of baseball, you are guaranteed a true Chi-town adventure.

Tell us, Have You Visited Wrigley Field?

Leave a comment below!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

1 comment about “Wrigley Field Chicago – Tips and Things to Do for First-Time Visitors”

Hello there! My name is Mark Romanski…my wife, daughter and I will be heading to Chicago/Wrigley Field for the first time. My son is doing an Internship at Wrigley this summer. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

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9 Things to Know Before Visiting Wrigley Field

Chicago is filled with famous attractions. From world-class museums to the best dining experiences, you’ll find no shortage of things to do when visiting the Windy City. If you’re a baseball fan, you may be particularly interested in visiting Wrigley Field . The home of the Chicago Cubs is the second oldest major league ballpark after Boston’s Fenway Park. With its history and legacy features like the ivy-covered walls and a hand-operated scoreboard, Wrigley Field is a top destination for baseball lovers and non-lovers alike. We’ve been fortunate to have experienced both baseball games and concerts at Wrigley. In this post, we provide some things to know to make your visit as smooth as possible.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

• It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood. The first thing some visitors may not realize before arriving is that Wrigley Field is in a neighborhood. It’s on the north side of the city of Chicago, not in the downtown area. Many stadiums are located downtown or in a more spacious area with lots of dedicated parking. However, Wrigley doesn’t fit either of these descriptions. Being in an urban neighborhood, it can feel very crowded around the park, especially on game day. Because of its unique location, getting to the park is not as straightforward compared to some other stadiums. Which leads us to our next section…

GETTING TO WRIGLEY: TRANSPORTATION

• Driving and traffic: Many visitors choose to drive to Wrigley Field. But honestly, this is probably our least favorite option. It’s not a very convenient area to drive to. And when there’s games, concerts or other events, traffic can be especially bad. The expressways can get very congested and once you get off, you’ll have to drive through several blocks of Chicago neighborhoods. This means lots of stoplights and navigating around buses and pedestrians. Depending on where you’re coming from, leave early and add a good amount of extra time to what your GPS estimates. If you get there early, there’s plenty of restaurants and bars in the area if you don’t want to go into the ballpark immediately.

• Parking: If you are driving, you should note that Wrigley does not have massive parking lots like some other stadiums may offer. After all, it is tighter on space being in a neighborhood. If you are driving, we highly recommend reserving a spot through a parking app. This ensures you’ll have a space and be able to avoid high fees that are charged the day of. Our personal recommendation and preferred option is to use the official remote lot for evening and weekend Cubs games. The remote lot is free, attended and offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Wrigley. Traffic gets much busier the closer you get to the park, so it’s nice to leave the worst part of the drive to the bus driver.
• The Chicago “L”: Taking the L is part of the Chicago experience. Short for “elevated”, this public rapid transit rail system actually goes above and below the ground. It connects the neighborhoods of Chicago as well as some nearby suburbs. If you are staying downtown, the L would be the most economical way to get to Wrigley via the Red Line. The Addison stop drops you off right next to the ballpark for convenient access. Using the L would also help you avoid any surge pricing on ridesharing apps after the game or event. 

• Wrigley Field Express by Pace Bus: If you are departing from the suburbs, check to see if there is a Wrigley Field Express pickup station near you. This service by Pace Bus offers nonstop service to most Wrigley games and events. It’s a convenient and very affordable way to get to the stadium if you are close to a park and ride location. Again, you wouldn’t have to worry about driving in traffic or parking fees with this option.

INSIDE THE PARK

• Obstructed view seats: “There’s not a bad seat in the house!” At some stadiums, this statement is true. Unfortunately, that’s not the case at Wrigley. Seats in the 200 section are tricky since they can be below the overhang of the upper level. While it can serve as shelter from rain or shade on a hot day, the overhang can also impede your view. But this is the least of your worries with a 200 section ticket. Depending on your seat, you may have a large beam in your line of sight. Some seats in this section literally have a beam right in front of your face. Beams can also be an issue in the 400 section as well. To avoid any problems, make sure your seats don’t have a warning about obstructed views when purchasing them. If you can, stick to the first several rows in the 200 or 400 sections to be in front of the beams. For more information on obstructed views and helpful photos of how your view may be restricted, click here . 

• Bleachers or not?  Another option for seats are the bleachers in the outfield. The biggest thing to note about this section is that your tickets are general admission. Because you don’t have assigned seating, you will need to get to the park earlier to get a better shot at your preferred spot. The bleachers also have their own private entrance. This section is known for a rowdier atmosphere. So if you have young kids or don’t want to sit on benches without a back for a whole game, you may want to pass on the bleachers.

AROUND THE BALLPARK

• Up on the roof:  Even if you’re not in the park itself, you can still catch an event at Wrigley. Behind the bleachers, there are several buildings with seating available on their rooftops . Many groups utilize the rooftops for a fun outing. However, you won’t really get the traditional game experience here. And the tickets can get pretty pricey. But with that said, if you’re on a rooftop, you’re probably there more for the all-inclusive food and drinks than the event itself. If you’re interested in catching a Cubs game with your family, skip the rooftops and go with the traditional Wrigley Field experience instead.

If you’re visiting the Windy City and want the Chicago eating experience, check out Wrigleyville Dogs for Chicago-style hot dogs. In our opinion, these are the best kind of hot dogs. They consist of a beef sausage on a poppyseed bun topped with mustard, relish, tomatoes, onions, a pickle, sport peppers and a pinch of celery salt. Most importantly, NO ketchup! Chicago is also known for Italian beef sandwiches, which have thinly sliced seasoned roast beef on a roll topped with hot or sweet peppers and dipped in the beef juices. To get your hands on this sloppy yet delicious creation, check out Al’s Beef , considered to be the inventor of this sandwich.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME, OR CONCERT OR...

So there you have it: our 9 things to know before visiting Wrigley Field. In short, from the Cubs to AC/DC, we’ve loved every experience at this Chicago landmark. Whether you’re looking to sing along with your favorite band or the 7th inning stretch, you should definitely consider a stop at Wrigley on your next trip to the Second City.

Have you been to Chicago? Let us know your favorite things to do there or if you have any questions in the comments below. For other travel resources ideas, check out our Trips & Tips section. As always, thanks for reading!

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Historic Wrigley Field Stadium Tour, Home of the Chicago Cubs!

A Wrigley Field Stadium tour is such a wonderful experience for baseball lovers! If you are a fan, check out this tour of Chicago Cubs baseball stadium the next time you are in the Windy City.

Wrigley Field Stadium Tour

Our family trip to Chicago this summer was nothing short of amazing! The weather was great, we found tons of things to do, and bonded as a family like no other. We shared some fun things to do with your family in Chicago , and now it’s a MUST that we share our awesome tour of Wrigley Field , the home of the Chicago Cubs!

Our tour of the Chicago Cubs stadium!

My son is a huge baseball fan, he has been playing since he was 4 years old and has a goal of visiting every single MLB stadium. It was a great opportunity to get another stadium notch under our belts while we were in Chicago, check out some photos from our tour of Wrigley Field.

Photos of the Cubs baseball stadium

This is one of the famous statues out in front of Wrigley Field. I don’t remember who this one is, the tour guide told us but my memory is crap.

When you arrive, you’ll split up into groups. There were about 4 groups of 50-ish people in each one, there were a lot of families interested (see the first picture, the line was insane)! This was our tour guide, he pretty much knew everything there is to know about Wrigley, the Cubs’ history, and all.

Inside Wrigley – Cubs stadium

When you take the Wrigley Field tour, you’ll get to walk through and go to the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, the Cubs’ clubhouse, the visitor’s clubhouse, Cub’s dugout, and the majestic field! On game days, no clubhouses dugouts, or press boxes will be available (we went on a game day). These two were eager to tour the stadium.

We got to walk the perimeter of the field, this was taken right behind home plate. The field was being prepped for the game that afternoon so we got to see some of the players warming up just as we were leaving!

This guy is listening intently to the tour guide. Did you know that Wrigley Field is over 100 years old?

Little sister was being a sticker collector…

Here’s a shot of all of us on the field during the tour. We could not go onto the field, but it was so neat to be out there. Fun times!

Is the Wrigley Field tour worth it?

If you’re a baseball lover, absolutely YES! The next time you’re in Chicago during baseball season, take the family to Wrigley Field for a tour. Baseball fans will love to see what goes on behind the scenes, where the Cubs have played for 99 years! If you’re visiting, you can actually take the train from the Downtown Chicago area to Wrigley Field as we did, take the RED line and get off at the Addison station.

Wrigley Field tour tickers – Home of the Chicago Cubs!

Tickets:  https://www.mlb.com/cubs/ballpark/tours

(Buy online to secure your spot, tickets may be sold out if you try buying when you arrive!)

1060 W. Addison Street Chicago, IL 60613 (773) 388-8270

More baseball fun on Honey + Lime

• Cooperstown Dreams Park Tips – A Parents Guide to the Popular Cooperstown Baseball Tournament
• Safeco Field Tour Review: Home of the Seattle Mariners
• 5 Fun Things To Do With Kids In Chicago

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On the Road with Eli(zondo) and Adric...in Chicago

The Guide explores the North Side of Chicago

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On the Road with Eli(zondo) and Adric at Wrigley Field

So you’ve decided to heed the call to adventure . Good for you. If you need to refer back to what the Guide actually is or who I actually am, please refer to the included links.

The Mandatory Stop on the Baseball Bucket List

Introduction.

The Guide says the following about Wrigley Field:

[ There originally was a note about whether one would eat the moon if it was made of ribs. ] I had my work cut out for me to update this entry.

The Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field. The ballpark is one of the two remaining jewel-box stadiums in baseball. In my view, visiting this stadium is a mandatory stop on any baseball fan’s bucket list. Cliches are mocked because they can show a lack of original thought, and can make a writer appear unimaginative and lazy. However, in some cases, the cliches are true and serve as a foundation of knowledge to build upon. Going to a Dodgers / Cubs game in Chicago is no different.

The Five Questions of the Guide:

1. is it worth going here.

Absolutely.

There’s a good reason for the old joke that Wrigley Field would still sell out even if all the seats were facing away from the field. While the park definitely shows its age, at times, I cannot think of a single reason that a self-respecting Dodgers fan would have to turn their collective noses up at Wrigley Field.

Granted, my visit was during the socially distant days of early May 2021, so I feel that I had an atypical visit as to the social elements of going to Wrigley Field and experiencing Chicago. Even with this handicap in place, I still had a wonderful time enjoying myself at a Dodgers game in Chicago, even with the terrible, worst-in-the-year results.

From statutes to the history of the neighborhood, Wrigley Field is one of those baseball experiences that I would heartily recommend to either the solo traveler or the group traveler. The Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field does earn its reputation for being a worthy inclusion on most fans’ baseball bucket lists.

While not perfect, it is this Guide’s view that if you, as a Dodger fan, are able to go to a Dodgers game at Wrigley Field, you would do yourself a disservice to not do everything reasonably possible in order to make that trip happen.

2. How should I get there?

Unless you have some Sheldon Cooper-esque love for trains , or you have some Jack Kerouac-like need to go on a road trip , I cannot think of any plausible reason that you should not fly into O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. There’s a branch of the Chicago Transit Authority that will take you into the city, so unless you are staying away from the elevated lines, you should not need to rideshare or taxi away from O’Hare.

Moreover, getting to the actual game at Wrigley is a breeze, as you don’t need a car. Just take the Red Line of the Chicago Metro to Addison Station, as you can see Wrigley Field from the train. If you can’t see the stadium, you are looking out the wrong side of the train. There are numerous ways into the stadium once you are there, so you are not forced to play Entrance Roulette as you would at pre-Centerfield Pavilion Dodger Stadium.

Once you get to Wrigley Field, you will likely marvel at how seamlessly the stadium meshes with the surrounding neighborhood. In some ways, this setup is entirely opposite of Dodger Stadium, where the ballpark is essentially cut off from the surrounding neighborhood in its own private alcove, which requires either a car or a bus to enter. At Wrigley, if you are taking a car to the game, in my view, you are missing the point. As far as I understand, parking for Wrigley is several blocks away.

3. Where should I stay?

Honestly, there are two schools of thought on the subject: either stay in the Loop , Chicago’s iconic downtown neighborhood, or stay in a hotel or hostel near Wrigley Field itself. On my first trip to Chicago, I actually stayed at an extremely reasonable AirBnB on the southside of Chicago that was conveniently close to the Red Line of the Chicago Transit Authority. The main reasons for this decision were the fact that I was on the road for over a week at this point and I needed a place to do laundry and it was significantly cheaper than either of the two earlier identified options.

I normally do not hedge my recommendations, but I will make an exception in this case. If you have never been to Chicago at all, stay in the Loop. It is slightly to significantly more expensive to stay in (compared to other parts of Chicago, depending on how fancy you want to make your accommodations) but you will have access to all of the major sights and sounds of the Northern half of Chicago with easy access to the rest of the city, thanks to the Chicago Transit Authority.

If all you care about is going to a Dodgers/Cubs game, then I would recommend a stay near Wrigley Field in Wrigleyville. It is more of a pain to actually enter/exit Chicago with this option due to the fact you are going to be on the train longer from O’Hare to the actual city than if you were staying in the Loop. The benefit is that you will be in the heart of the residential neighborhood in which Wrigley Field resides and you will likely be able to walk to the ballpark. There is even a hotel directly across the street from Wrigley if you are so inclined to use it.

It is striking to note how Wrigley Field is organically the heart of this portion of Chicago with various bars and restaurants within walking distance nearby. Places like Atlanta had to create this atmosphere (poorly) artificially, so why not visit the place that has been fostering this atmosphere for over a century.

4. Where should I sit?

Where to sit at Wrigley is an interesting puzzle. I previously promised that I would give better insight than “sit behind home plate” or “sit by the Dodgers dugout.” As for what to get while you’re at Wrigley, unless you do not eat meat, you would be denying yourself one of life’s true pleasures if you skipped having a Chicago dog.

I do not recall the food being that memorable at Wrigley Field. That statement is not to say that the food was bad by any means. Even in the Catalina Club, where everything but alcohol was complimentary, I remember thinking that the food was fine and nothing more. If you go, and it is cold, I would strongly recommend getting hot chocolate from the passing vendors. But admittedly, I have a bit of a sweet tooth.

The following are my recommendations for where to sit in Wrigley Field.

• If you’re on a budget:

I found that the seating costs at Wrigley were generally quite reasonable. However, if your goal is to spend as little as possible, your best bet is either seats in the bleachers or anywhere away from the action along the first or third baselines. The main thing to remember about sitting on the first or third baselines is that Wrigley is a jewel-box stadium and if you are not careful, you will end up with an obstructed view due to a support column. The below photographs will best demonstrate that point.

A solo Dodgers fan invited me to sit by him for Game 2 of the May 4, 2021 doubleheader, for which I bought him hot chocolate as it was quite cold that day. As you can see, my view greatly improved, ironically, by moving farther away from home plate.

• If you want to sit somewhere fun:

If you truly want to sit somewhere fun, a truly interesting idea that I did not have the chance to experience firsthand yet would be watching a game from the rooftops of buildings that are next door to Wrigley. I have included a credited photo below to provide a demonstration on the off-chance that you do not know what I am talking about.

The main thing to remember is that these rooftop seats are outside of Wrigley Field and are technically the purview of a third-party company . Moreover, these seats tend to be more expensive than seats inside Wrigley. I would use these seats once at most by myself. Otherwise, these seats would be a blast for a group.

So instead, using my own experience, I will recommend checking Stubhub to see if you can get a discounted seat in the club seating of Wrigley. On May 5, 2021, I saw that I could get into the Catalina Club, which is beneath the press box, behind home plate for less than the normal face value of the ticket at the time ($200 instead of $325). Personally, I would not spend that much on a ticket going forward, unless it was a playoff ticket (mostly likely, a World Series ticket). But seeing a bunch of heartbreaking losses in a row can do strange things to a person, and I justified the decision for going for a fancy seat based on the idea that I was unlikely to ever return to Wrigley.

What the rendering does not show you to the right is the hot food area. You can offset the overall cost of your ticket by taking advantage of the included food (both entrees, appetizers, and snacks) and drink (non-alcoholic). Moreover, the indoor area is quite warm if you happen to visit Wrigley during a cold/rainy snap.

You can likely have a grand time in the bleachers interacting with the Friendly Denizens. My sole visit so far was during the era of social distancing so I feel that I have not fully experienced the true grandeur of bantering with the denizens of Wrigley Field.

• You want the sit somewhere that has the best value for your dollar:

I found that I got the most value from sitting in Section 218. I have posted a screen of its location of general sections in relation to Wrigley below.

These seats, especially when not obstructed, give a clear, crisp view of home plate and are usually relatively inexpensive. I recall spending about $30 for my seat to Clayton Kershaw’s worst start of his career, so far.

Granted, you would pay to be closer to the action, but what is not obvious based on this photo is that I had complete protection from the sun and rain. There was a mild wind tunnel effect but provided you bring a light jacket, this condition should not be a major issue unless you are susceptible to the elements.

Considering their vantage point and cost, seats in Sections 216 through 218 are an excellent choice for those who are looking for the most value from their seating choices at Wrigley Field.

5. After your trip, is it worth going back?

In the disclaimer to the Guide, I described the informal range of subjective outcomes after visiting a location. So far, I have been to three games at Wrigley Field, of which the Dodgers lost all three in disheartening fashion.

That fact said, I had fun and I can hardly wait to go back.

Based on the history and the atmosphere of the location, combined with the ease of access and the economical range of seating, Wrigley Field earns its stellar reputation. The only reason that I would not attempt to go back yearly is that I find that the logistical costs of getting to Chicago and staying in Chicago (especially if I am staying in the Loop) are a bit prohibitive without careful planning. I would likely feel differently if I lived closer to Chicago and would likely go every year. As I am a native Californian, in my mind, I only need to go during a playoff matchup or every few years.

With that statement said, I do heartily recommend going to Wrigley Field to watch the Dodgers and the Cubs duke it out. You will certainly be glad that you did if you do decide to go.

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Music and Concerts | Review: Green Day brings new urgency to its…

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Music and concerts | review: green day brings new urgency to its wrigley field concert with smashing pumpkins.

Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Green Day performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Fans watch as Green Day performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Mike Dirnt of Green Day performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Tré Cool of Green Day performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Fans watch The Smashing Pumpkins’ performance at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

John Mogan drinks beer during The Smashing Pumpkins’ performance at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Kiki Wong of The Smashing Pumpkins performs at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

A fan sings along to The Smashing Pumpkins’ performance at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Fans watch The Smashing Pumpkins perform at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Mark Smith sings along during The Smashing Pumpkins’ performance at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

Fans wait for Green Day’s performance at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2024. (Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune)

At heart a commemoration of the 30th anniversary of “Dookie” and 20th anniversary of “American Idiot,” the show functioned as a rallying cry against authoritarianism, prejudice, disinformation and regressive policies. Common targets, all, for punk artists, and Green Day approached them with calls to action and messages that won out for their combination of balance, intelligence and perspective. Cell phones, algorithms and propaganda received a lashing. Ditto warmongers, MAGA and anyone upset by LGBTQ rights.

Rather than frame protest in angry or desperate terms, Green Day turned a majority of moments into celebrations and conveyed an optimism occasionally at odds with the subject matter. The determination, sharpness and swing the collective invested in its playing helped maintain positivity and focus. As did the band’s goal of cramming more than two records’ worth of material into a slot hemmed in by a weekday neighborhood noise ordinance.

However well-intended, the aimless drifting and harmless schtick that the band tends to incorporate into its headlining gigs were thankfully nowhere to be found. Armstrong still over-indulged in recurrent “hey-oh” chants, though not at the risk of losing the thread of any songs. To further connections, he improvised snippets of classics (John Mellencamp’s “Jack and Diane,” Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’”) as introductions. His bond with the crowd rivaled that of his chemistry with the trio’s other core members — drummer Tré Cool and bassist Mike Dirnt — and underlined his plea for everyone to experience togetherness and joy.

Looking at least a decade younger than his 52-year-old age, Armstrong can be accused of getting soft but not of waning enthusiasm. The singer championed the Midwest, Cheap Trick and the Friendly Confines. He wore a constant smile and sparked with ceaseless energy, whether encouraging audience participation, leaping off platforms or injecting emotion into his deliveries. Aside from a few indications of hoarseness, and absent the throat-scraping snarl of his youth, his phrasing and range remain about the same as they were when “Dookie” helped change the cultural landscape in the mid-’90s.

Green Day spent the better part of the past 20 years attempting to create an equivalent to that record and “American Idiot,” coming closest with “21st Century Breakdown” (2009). A creative decline followed in the early 2010s, after which the band began to claw back some of its losses. Its latest effort, the solid “Saviors,” adheres to a recognizable pattern wherein the group maintains respectability yet falls short of its peak.

That heyday arrived in two waves, with “Dookie” unexpectedly propelling the relatively unknown group to the top of the charts. The then-irreverent trio became poster children for a burgeoning pop-punk scene, which succeeded the waning “grunge” movement as the staple rock music of the era. Cemented by a famous mud-splattered performance at Woodstock ‘94, Green Day’s rise prompted the mainstream emergence of copycat bands, skateboard-influenced fashion and the inaugural Warped Tour in 1995.

Its popularity aside, Green Day’s ambition and growth on “American Idiot” arrived as a shock. Issued a few months before George W. Bush’s re-election, it signaled a dramatic expansion of technique, aptitude and intent. The songs’ overt ties to sociopolitical moods and trends resonated with a public reeling from Sept. 11, oil-fueled conflicts and, in due time, Hurricane Katrina.

“It seems like forever ago,” Armstrong reflected on the climactic “Whatshername,” his tone projecting a reluctant sentimentality that proposed you can never fully divorce yourself from your past. In the context of the evening, the line communicated truths about the decades that elapsed since Green Day made the albums being feted on the stage. The lyric also demanded reconsideration given the adolescence-to-adulthood matters explored on “Dookie” and “American Idiot” remain not only relevant, but more prevalent.

Augmented by three support musicians, Green Day appeared to acknowledge as much in the way it handled “Dookie” and channeled how its meanings evolved. The band tore through the hook-rich tunes with zest and vigor, retaining their sense of fun though accentuating the potential severity of many of the issues addressed in beloved works such as the strolling “Longview,” spastic “Basket Case” and bubblegum-laced “Pulling Teeth.”

Loneliness, apathy, anxiety, longing, impoverishment, bad romance, fantasy vengeance: Once viewed as juvenile problems, and originally sent up in songs by a youthful Green Day with bratty humor and nose-thumbing attitude. They were treated here with a practiced professionalism and thinly veiled seriousness indicative of their pervasiveness in contemporary environments riddled with epidemics of post-panedemic isolation, youth suicide, opioid addiction and gun violence.

Even as Armstrong left his extroverted prankster guise behind for a future visit, some silliness surfaced. The Cool-led confessional “All by Myself,” during which the drummer paraded around in a leopard-spotted robe for exaggerated effect, provided appropriate comedy. Equally lighthearted, “Sassafras Roots” landed as an endearing invitation from one misfit to another to embark on a date.

The intensity of the feminist-minded “She,” however, trumpeted dissent and joined the bristling “Know Your Enemy,” folksy “Minority” and multiple “American Idiot” songs in railing against another batch of modern problems: acquiescence, alienation, censorship and hypocrisy. And a wealth of fare from the band’s 2004 LP — the swaying “Holiday,” staggered “Give Me Novacaine” and spring-loaded “She’s a Rebel” included — registered with spiked vitality and critical urgency.

Along with visual candy that extended to a blow-up plane dropping bomb-shaped balloons over the audience, a steady blitz of pyrotechnics — explosions, fireballs, flames, sparks, smoke — responded in kind to the anthemic music. On video screens, Green Day broadcast animated sketches linked to the “Dookie” cover art and replicated the latter imagery and that of “American Idiot” with large inflatable structures at center stage.

Devoid of the band’s passion, it would have all been fancy window dressing. Green Day delighted in achieving its marathon tasks. Responsible for pumping out rapid-fire guitar chords, Armstrong’s elastic right arm evoked rubber sticky-hand toys that slap against hard surfaces and stretch without breaking. Controlling the tension, Dirnt caused bass lines to walk and run, snap and slide, slacken and tighten, or crack like stubborn knuckles. The MVP? Drummer Tré Cool, unflappable behind the kit, surging with stamina and consistency while pounding down the rhythmic rails on which Green Day rode.

Making their local debut with a revamped lineup completed by new guitarist Kiki Wong, Chicago’s Smashing Pumpkins spent a bulk of its hour-long set on autopilot. Barely recognizable from the band that treated its hometown to a remarkable show right down the street at Metro in late September 2022 , it mixed a few recent cuts amid rushed greatest hits and bypassed any material from the LP it released earlier this month.

Understandably, the sextet encountered restrictions associated with an opening slot and dealt with a bass-heavy sound mix that squelched dynamics. Nonetheless, outside of monster drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, leader Billy Corgan and company lacked impetus and inertia. “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” clipped its hallmark rage. “The Everlasting Gaze” stayed stuck in second gear. The inspired guitar architecture, the space-rock excursions, the theatrical gestures? Not tonight, tonight.

Partially enlivened by Wong, who came ready to rock in a leather-and-studs ensemble that would pass muster in Judas Priest, Corgan picked his spots. He spoke of the band’s 36-year history and practicing at the Cubby Bear. He put an abstract, metal-tinged twist on U2’s “Zoo Station” and leaned into “Cherub Rock.” And he seemed enthused by mixing a perplexing live-wrestling sequence into “Beguiled.”

Too little to cover for the band’s shortcomings, and the fact he spent most of the performance resembling a sour little boy disappointed to learn he couldn’t go to his friend’s house to play. Still in love with his sadness. Perhaps too much so.

Green Day setlist from Wrigley Field Aug. 13:  “The American Dream Is Killing Me” “Burnout” “Having a Blast” “Chump” “Longview” “Welcome to Paradise” “Pulling Teeth” “Basket Case” “She” “Sassafras Roots” “When I Come Around” “Coming Clean” “Emenius Sleepus” “In the End” “F.O.D.” “All by Myself” “Know Your Enemy” “Look Ma, No Brains!” “One Eyed Bastard” “Dilemma” “Minority” “Brain Stew” “American Idiot” “Jesus of Suburbia” “Holiday” “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” “Are We the Waiting” “St. Jimmy” “Give Me Novacaine” “She’s a Rebel” “Extraordinary Girl” “Letterbomb” “Wake Me Up When September Ends” “Homecoming” “Whatshername” “Bobby Sox” “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)”

Smashing Pumpkins setlist “The Everlasting Gaze” “Doomsday Clock” “Zoo Station” (U2 cover) “Today” “That Which Animates the Spirit” “Tonight, Tonight” “Ava Adore” “Disarm” “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” “Beguiled” “1979” “Jellybelly” “Cherub Rock” “Zero”

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Green Day celebrates two album milestones in Wrigley Field concert with the Smashing Pumpkins

While some bands may celebrate milestones with a few tracks embedded in a set list, or maybe one full album play, green day said “let’s play two” at wrigley field on tuesday night and meant it..

Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day performs during during the band’s concert Tuesday night at Wrigley Field.

Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times

From Bay Area basement punks to Broadway rock opera revivalists, Green Day has had quite the wild ride since forming in the late ‘80s — and their latest Saviors Tour is one epic trip through it all. Though the international spree is named for their latest album released in January, the band uses it as a vehicle to perform — in full — their two seminal albums, “Dookie” (1994) and “American Idiot,” (2004).

While some bands may celebrate milestones with a few tracks embedded in a set list, or maybe one full album play, Green Day said “let’s play two” at Wrigley Field on Tuesday night and meant it. It was a marathon undertaking, shelling out 37 songs in 2-and-one-half hours, complemented with inflatable stage props recreating each album’s art in 3D effect. “Tonight is not just a party,” singer/guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong cautioned the crowd, “it’s a celebration!”

The sold-out jamboree began with happy hour sets from Green Day’s appointed “nieces” The Linda Lindas and “brothers” Rancid, before hometown heroes The Smashing Pumpkins got their rite of passage playing Wrigley Field for the first time.

“We used to practice across the street at the Cubby Bear,” frontman Billy Corgan remarked toward the end of the hourlong set. “It took us 36 years to get here but we are so happy. … God bless the Cubs!”

Though Corgan was decked out in his typical long gothic frock, his two kids paraded around the stage in their own custom baseball jerseys for a song, during a coordinated bit with National Wrestling Alliance stars Natalia Markova and Bryan Idol. Lest we forget Corgan owns the league and, in May, debuted his CW network reality show, “Adventures In Carnyland,” about the venture.

It was an incongruous moment in an otherwise textbook set from the alt rock soldiers who whipped through a handbag of hits across their numerous releases, from “Today” to “Tonight, Tonight,” which never fails to bring a sense of pride to Chicagoans with the “city by the lake” lyric. In addition to “1979,” “Bullet With Butterfly Wings,” “Cherub Rock” and new “Atum” album songs “Beguiled” and “That Which Animates the Spirit,” the Pumpkins were able to slip in a solid cover of U2’s “Zoo Station.”

Since the original squad of James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlin officially rejoined Corgan in 2018, the band has never sounded tighter. One of their best recent moves was adding guitarist Kiki Wong (after a national open audition earlier this year). The unabashed metalhead — even spotted at Metallica’s Sunday night show — brings a tangible fervor to the group; with flying V guitar in hand, she’s the most animated member on the stage. Even if it was odd to see the moody vibesetters in a daylight set, it was still a great offering. “We’re so glad to be here in our god - - - n hometown,” Iha declared.

Smashing Pumpkins frontman/guitarit Billy Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin perform at Wrigley Field ahead of Green Day on Tuesday night. It was the first time the Pumpkins played the ballpark.

In a way, having Pumpkins on the bill was also an anniversary. They and Green Day first teamed up 30 years ago on the 1994 iteration of Lollapalooza. It was just one in a line of local acts Green Day has ponied up in recent tours.

“Tonight we played with The Smashing Pumpkins. The last time we played here was with Fall Out Boy. Next time we’re playing with the band Chicago,” Armstrong joked as Green Day’s mammoth set got underway. Later, he also added in a bit of Cheap Trick’s “Surrender” in Green Day’s “Minority.” Along with “Brain Stew” and “Saviors” songs like “Bobby Sox” and “Dilemma,” they were the few that didn’t fall into the “Dookie” or “American Idiot” camps.

Pairing the two albums in full made for interesting bedfellows. Both come from disparate times for the band — and the country at large. Whereas “Dookie” is quick-witted with innocuous themes about boredom and relationships, “American Idiot” is a conceptual opus full of winding anthems with political and anti-war messages, reflective of the post-9/11 and Iraq War world in which it was released. (Reviving it 20 years later is still incredibly timely, with the band updating certain key lyrics to fit the times: American Idiot’s “I’m not a part of a redneck agenda” is now “I’m not a part of a MAGA agenda.”)

“America, are you ready to vote? Do you want your democracy? Do we fight against fascism?” Armstrong prodded during “Holiday.” Before the show started, video screens revealed various messages including “Don’t be an American Idiot, register to vote,” as part of Green Day’s partnership with voter registration group HeadCount.

It wasn’t all heavy-handed. The night devolved into one epic, nostalgic singalong as firework pops and towering flames added to the Broadway-esque theatricality; there was a blue-haired girl named Bridget who got to join the band on stage for “Know Your Enemy,” and drummer Tré Cool did his “All By Myself” pantomime in a leopard robe.

“Tonight is about love and being together … we don’t need an algorithm or propaganda,” Armstrong declared. “Tonight is about joy — for god’s sake we’ve earned it.”

By the time they ended with “Good Riddance,” as Tré Cool and bassist Mike Dirnt did a little jig around Armstrong performing solo, it was clear everyone — band included — had had the time of their lives.

THE SMASHING PUMPKINS SET LIST

The Everlasting Gaze

Doomsday Clock

Zoo Station (U2 cover)

That Which Animates the Spirit

Tonight, Tonight

Bullet With Butterfly Wings

Cherub Rock

GREEN DAY SET LIST

The American Dream Is Killing Me

Having a Blast

Welcome to Paradise

Pulling Teeth

Basket Case

Sassafras Roots

When I Come Around

Coming Clean

Emenius Sleepus

All by Myself

Know Your Enemy

Look Ma, No Brains!

One Eyed Bastard

American Idiot

Jesus of Suburbia

Boulevard of Broken Dreams

Are We the Waiting

Give Me Novacaine

She’s a Rebel

Extraordinary Girl

Wake Me Up When September Ends

Whatsername

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)

Opinion Trump’s decline: His interviews and lies get worse

As the 2024 race draws tighter, the former president’s actions suggest he is spiraling.

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This week, I look at felon and former president Donald Trump’s downward spiral, pick the distinguished persons of the week and share some Chicago sites.

What caught my eye

Trump seems unable to handle reality. His opponent is beating him by multiple metrics, especially crowd size. In response, he posted several obvious lies on Truth Social, claiming that “nobody was there” and that photos and video of Vice President Kamala Harris’s crowds were AI-generated (our own reporters were eyewitnesses to the event ). As lawyer and anti-Trump commentator George Conway said on MSNBC , “He has completely lost it. This post is, beyond question, delusional. But is was also inevitable because he realizes … he’s not just running for the presidency, he’s running for his freedom.”

Trump’s nonsense is also meant to sow the seeds of doubt if the election does not go his way. He stated in the same post: “This is the way the Democrats win Elections, by CHEATING.” As my Post colleague Philip Bump wrote, “the point isn’t to increase Trump’s credibility. It’s to erode everyone else’s. That way, when they accurately report the results in November, Trump can remind his supporters to reject them if necessary.”

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Trump might be conditioning voters for another “Stop the Steal.” But then again, he might be just losing it.

A glitch-plagued X interview (unable to start for 45 minutes) with Elon Musk, owner of the social media site, only made things worse. People on social media reflected shock at hearing him slur and ramble his way through a softball interview. His obsession with President Joe Biden , who is no longer running, sounds like Trump cannot cope with his actual opponents. A much less alarming performance in the debate effectively ended President Biden’s campaign.

Had the media been conscientiously covering Trump, the public would understand these bizarre outings as part of his noticeable cognitive decline . Trump’s sporadic appearances on the trail alone should be grist for the cable news shows. When they do discuss his mental state, it is often in the context of horserace politics. ( Axios commented on his AI delusion: “Trump’s advisers and allies worry he’s spending so much time in an alternative reality that it’s undermining his real-world campaign.” How about asking hard questions about how a party can stand behind someone in an alternative reality?)

If President Biden held a news conference with 162 lies , resorted to laughable fabrications, sounded as bad as Trump did on X and scheduled so few appearances, a swarm of investigative pieces exploring his fitness and commentary asking whether he should leave the race would have ensued. Still, the pretense of normality persists.

It works like this: “Trump sounds nuts, but he can’t be nuts, because he’s the presumptive nominee for president of a major party, and no major party would nominate someone who is nuts,” Jeffrey Goldberg , editor in chief of the Atlantic, explained last month. “Therefore, it is our responsibility to sand down his rhetoric, to identify any kernel of meaning, to make light of his bizarro statements, to rationalize.” When not one but multiple rants call “into question not only his fitness for office but his basic cognitive abilities,” the media’s refusal to convey Trump’s unfitness amounts to misleading the public.

With time, Trump’s delusions have gotten wilder, his thinking more scattered. The worse Trump gets, the more untenable the media’s unwillingness to level with voters becomes. Will Bunch of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote, “[The] false claim by Trump that Harris is generating fake big crowds with AI was a true Captain Queeg moment, maybe the most bat-guano crazy thing I’ve seen in 40 years of covering presidential elections.”

Where does this leave Republicans? The MAGA party is caught in a gloom-and-doom loop, forced to run away from the radical Project 2025 plan, defend an increasingly irrational candidate and make excuses for its unlikable, inept nominee for vice president. One wonders when we will hear and see reports about “ Republican panic !” or “ Could Republicans dump Trump ?” Let’s get real: That sort of coverage is reserved for Democrats. Alas, whatever horserace contest the media continues to present bears little resemblance to the jaw-dropping reality before our eyes.

Distinguished persons of the week

Give credit where credit is due: Voters — at least Democrats, Democratic-leaning independents and “Never Trump” Republicans — have decided to engage in politics in a big way. Hundreds of thousands have joined Harris-Walz Zoom calls; tens of thousands have gone to rallies, volunteered or given money. The sense of ennui and fatalism has lifted. The prospect of putting Trump in the rear view mirror has invigorated the electorate.

The media calls it “vibes.” But vibes are actually people — happy and engaged people. “We are living through a season of hope now in America, with scenes of enthusiasm and even joy at Harris-Walz rallies, but hope is also part of a longer-term political strategy,” writes historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat . “Hope means refusing to give in to the fatalism and cynicism that autocrats foster with their messages that they are omnipotent and their victories inevitable.”

For too long, the opposition to Trump imagined he possessed some grand power to sway voters and defy the laws of politics. In fact, he is weak, resorting to increasingly ludicrous lies. That is the power of democracy. Those looking for someone to save us from the authoritarian threat have found that power in themselves.

Something different

Some of you might travel to Chicago for next week’s Democratic National Convention, or at least to watch the events taking place there. Among its many delights (e.g., the Art Institute, the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Lincoln Park Zoo), Chicago is one of the best locales for architecture lovers. Here are three of the best ways to take it in:

Chicago River Tour: Find one conducted by an architecture student. You will get a bird’s-eye view of everything from the original Wrigley headquarters to the Marina Towers to the Merchandise Mart.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio: A short ride to Oak Park, Ill. is more than worth it. You’ll get a tour of his home and office, a detailed explanation of his work and vision of living and a map of the neighborhood where you will find more Wright homes. (These are private, so you’ll have to enjoy them from the sidewalk.) And if you don’t want to leave Chicago proper, there is the Robie House, a Prairie-style masterpiece.

Centennial Wheel: Go out to Navy Pier and grit your teeth if you aren’t thrilled with heights (the gondolas are fully enclosed, if that helps). It’s worth the look from the top of the giant Ferris wheel for a magnificent view of the city — night or day.

Every other Wednesday at noon, I host a Q&A with readers. Submit a question for the next one .