Soldier Field - Parking Tips

Question

Hi All,

Looking for any and all tips and advice on best parking options for Sunday Bears game at Soldier Field.

May have someone with us with mobility issues and a handicap tag so open to tips on that as well.

Will be heading straight to O’Hare from game so focused on the quickest/easiest exit that would put us in direction of O’Hare.

Budget is flexible if there are better but more expensive options.

Thank you!

Answer

When attending a Bears game at Soldier Field, parking can be a bit of a challenge due to the high volume of attendees, but there are several options depending on your needs, budget, and accessibility requirements. Below are some parking tips to help you have a smooth experience:

1. Soldier Field Parking Lots: The official Soldier Field parking lots are the most convenient but also among the most expensive. There are several lots surrounding the stadium, including the North Garage and South Garage, which are both within walking distance of the stadium.

North Garage: The North Garage is located directly north of Soldier Field. It's convenient if you want to be closer to the stadium, but it fills up quickly. It offers spaces for both regular and accessible parking with a handicap permit.
South Garage: The South Garage is a bit further away, but still within a short walk to the stadium. It’s another good option for general and accessible parking.

If you have a handicap tag, you’ll be able to park in designated accessible spaces in these garages. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure one of these spots, especially if you're looking for convenience. Expect to pay around $50–$60 for parking in these lots.

2. Nearby Parking Options: If Soldier Field's lots are full or you're looking for a less expensive option, there are several nearby parking garages and lots within walking distance to Soldier Field.

Grant Park Garages: These garages are located near the eastern edge of Grant Park, just a short walk from Soldier Field. Grant Park South Garage and Grant Park North Garage are good alternatives with accessible parking. Expect to pay $30–$40 for parking here.
Lake Shore East Parking: Located a bit further northeast from Soldier Field, this area has several parking garages that are accessible by car and relatively close to the stadium. They usually charge $30–$40 for the day.

3. Accessible Parking Options for Mobility Issues: If you or someone in your group has mobility issues, make sure to prioritize accessible parking. In addition to the parking options above, there are designated accessible parking spaces at Soldier Field and the nearby lots. However, these spaces can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive as early as possible, particularly for a high-demand game like a Bears game.

Soldier Field Accessible Parking: Spaces in the North and South Garages are designated for vehicles with a handicap permit. These spots are closest to the stadium entrance, but availability is limited.
Street Parking with Handicap Permit: If you prefer street parking, you may be able to find spaces along the surrounding streets that allow parking for vehicles with a handicap tag. Make sure to check the posted signs for restrictions.

4. Post-Game Departure (Heading to O’Hare): When the game ends, leaving Soldier Field and heading to O'Hare can be a bit tricky due to traffic congestion. To minimize delays, it's best to exit the area from the South Loop and head west toward I-55 (Stevenson Expressway), which will take you directly to O'Hare. Here are some tips:

Exit Strategy: After the game, you’ll want to avoid driving north, as that leads you back into downtown. Heading south or west will get you closer to the expressway. From the South Garage, you can head towards Michigan Avenue and take Roosevelt Road west to I-55.
Use a Rideshare or Taxi: If you're planning on taking an Uber or Lyft to the airport after the game, be prepared for long wait times due to high demand. It's often easier to walk a few blocks away from the stadium to a less congested area for pickup.

5. Alternative Transportation: If you’re open to public transport options, you can take the CTA Red Line from the nearby Roosevelt Station (about a 10-minute walk from Soldier Field) to get to O'Hare. While this might not be ideal with mobility issues, it's a good option if you're looking to avoid post-game traffic entirely.

Ultimately, the best parking for you will depend on your priorities—whether it’s convenience, cost, or ease of getting to O'Hare after the game. If budget allows, the Soldier Field lots or nearby garages are your best bet for convenience. Be sure to plan ahead, especially with the handicap tag, and have a smooth exit strategy for getting to O’Hare!

Soldier Field - Parking Tips

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