Finding parking for Soldier Field in Chicago can be a challenge, especially for big events like Bears games or concerts. With limited on-site parking and street parking that fills up quickly, knowing the best parking options around Soldier Field is key to avoiding headaches. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting the best parking for Soldier Field events.
Soldier Field Parking Overview
Soldier Field has approximately 5,000 on-site parking spaces available in their North, South, and East lots. These are premium parking spots right by the stadium but they sell out extremely quickly for major events. Spots in the North and South lots in particular go to Bears season ticket holders first.
There are also around 11,000 street parking spots within a mile walk of Soldier Field. However, these fill up fast on event days and are subject to residential parking permit restrictions in some areas. Outside of the immediate vicinity, there are large parking garages and lots operated by the Chicago Park District by Burnham Harbor and McCormick Place.
Parking prices vary widely for Soldier Field events, with on-site parking as high as $75 per vehicle. Street parking closer to the stadium can still be $40-$60. Parking farther away drops down to the $20-$40 range at lots and garages. Public transportation like the CTA can be easier and cheaper than parking for some.
On-Site Soldier Field Parking
Here is an overview of the on-site parking lots at Soldier Field:
| Lot Name | Location | # of Spaces | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Lot | North of stadium off McFetridge Dr | 1,600 spots | $40-$75 |
| South Lot | South of stadium off MLK Dr | 1,300 spots | $40-$75 |
| East Lot | East of stadium off S Lake Shore Dr | 2,100 spots | $40-$75 |
The North and South lots typically fill up first with season ticket holders. Some spots are prepaid through season packages while the remainder sell out extremely quickly once they open to the public leading up to an event. Prices in the North and South lots in particular also tend to be at the higher end of the range.
The East Lot has more capacity so spots are somewhat easier to secure. However, it still sells out quickly and also commands premium pricing. For in-demand games like the Bears vs Packers, every on-site lot is sure to reach capacity well in advance.
Street Parking Near Soldier Field
Street parking within a mile radius of Soldier Field is metered and mostly either 4-hour or 2-hour parking. Meters accept quarters and credit cards and run $4.50-$5.00 per hour. You can also pay using the ParkChicago app.
Closer to the stadium, parking time limits and prices are both higher. But if you go a little farther out, it is possible to find 2-hour meters in the $2-$3 per hour range. Time limits are strictly enforced so you need to build in time to feed the meters if staying beyond the limit.
In addition to meters, there are also residential parking permit zones around Soldier Field. Make sure to read street signs carefully so you do not mistakenly park in a permit-only spot. Parking tickets in Chicago are very expensive.
Here are some key street parking zones around Soldier Field:
| Zone | Distance to Stadium | Time Limit | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Museum Campus | 0 – 0.3 miles | 4 hr | $4.50-$5/hr |
| South Loop East | 0.5 miles | 2-4 hr | $3-$5/hr |
| South Loop West | 0.7 miles | 2 hr | $2-$4/hr |
Street parking fills up extremely quickly on Soldier Field event days. Arrive early, have backup options planned, and be prepared to hunt for an open spot.
Parking Garages and Lots Near Soldier Field
In addition to street parking, there are also several large parking garages and lots operated by LAZ Parking and the Chicago Park District around Soldier Field. These include:
- Burnham Harbor Parking – 1.5 mile walk
- McCormick Place Parking – 1.5 mile walk
- Museum Campus Parking – 0.7 mile walk
- Grant Park North Garage – 1 mile walk
- Millennium Park Garage – 1.3 mile walk
Parking rates at these garages/lots on Soldier Field event days typically range from $25-$50. Here is an overview of some of the main parking options:
| Parking Location | Distance to Stadium | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Burnham Harbor Parking | 1.5 miles | $30-$50 |
| McCormick Place Parking | 1.5 miles | $25-$40 |
| Museum Campus Parking | 0.7 miles | $40-$50 |
Burnham Harbor and McCormick Place offer large lots about a 30 minute walk from Soldier Field. Museum Campus is much closer but more expensive. All fill up hours before event start times.
Public Transportation to Soldier Field
Using Chicago’s extensive public transit system is another option for getting to Soldier Field without the hassle and cost of parking.
The CTA offers several train lines and bus routes that stop right by Soldier Field:
- Green Line – Roosevelt Station
- Orange Line – Roosevelt Station
- Red Line – Cermak-Chinatown Station – 1 mile walk
- #128 Soldier Field Express bus
- #3 King Drive bus
Trains and buses run very frequently on event days. Transit costs $2.50 each way using a Ventra card or $5 cash fare. This is significantly cheaper than parking costs. The main drawback is needing to walk a bit more from stations/stops to the stadium itself.
Rideshare Services to Soldier Field
Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is another parking alternative for getting to Soldier Field. Costs vary based on demand but expect to pay a premium after events due to increased rates.
There are designated rideshare pickup and dropoff zones at Soldier Field to streamline connections. However, you will still likely face traffic delays exiting after events.
While convenient, rideshares ultimately tend to be more expensive than either public transit or self-parking. Estimate spending $20-$60 each way for Uber/Lyft rides to or from Soldier Field events.
Best Parking Strategies for Soldier Field
When it comes to finding the best parking for events at Soldier Field, advanced planning and preparation are key. Here are some top parking tips:
- Arrive early – At least 2 hours before event start time
- Have back-up options in mind if your primary lot/garage is full
- Consider public transit to avoid parking altogether
- Check for residential parking signs to avoid tickets
- Allow extra time to walk from farther, cheaper lots
- Prepay for parking if available to lock in a spot
- Be flexible and patient – parking for Soldier Field takes effort!
Patience and good planning will pay off with scoring better parking. Prioritize affordability, walking distance, and easy exits to find the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
Finding parking for events at Chicago’s Soldier Field can certainly be challenging. With limited on-site lots that fill up fast and residential street parking, you need a parking game plan in place. Arriving early, considering public transit, allowing extra walking time, and having back-up options in mind will help you successfully park for Soldier Field events. Advanced preparation and flexibility are key to saving money and headaches. With the right approach, you can enjoy convenient, cost-effective parking and focus on having fun at the event.