Finding parking for a major event like a concert at Soldier Field in Chicago can be a challenge. With thousands of people converging on the stadium at the same time, the nearby parking lots and garages fill up quickly. However, with some planning and knowledge of the parking options around Soldier Field, you can find a spot. Here are some tips for where to park for a concert at Soldier Field:
Soldier Field Parking Lots
Soldier Field has approximately 5,000 parking spaces in lots directly adjacent to the stadium. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $40-60 per vehicle. Because they are so close and convenient, these lots fill up hours before an event starts. If you want to park here, plan to arrive 4-5 hours early. Even then, snagging a spot is not guaranteed.
The main Soldier Field lots are in Grant Park on the eastern side of the stadium. There are also smaller lots to the south and west. Entrances are on Columbus Drive, Waldron Drive, and 18th Street. All parking is prepaid only – no cash payments on site.
Nearby Garages
If the Soldier Field lots are full, there are many garages within a 15-20 minute walk of the stadium. Prices range from $20-40 for event parking. The garages are concentrated in the South Loop area, east of Michigan Ave and south of Roosevelt Rd.
Some major garages to consider include Millennium Park Garage under Grant Park, several InterPark facilities on State St, Auditorium Garage on Congress Pkwy, and University Center Garage on S. Wabash. Carefully check garages websites and electronic signs for availability before heading in.
Street Parking
On many streets surrounding Soldier Field, you can find metered parking spots. This includes parts of Roosevelt Rd, Michigan Ave, Indiana Ave, and more. The rates vary from $2 per hour to over $6 per hour on major streets. You may need to drive around a bit to find an open spot.
Pay attention to posted time limits, which are often 2-4 hours. You’ll need to re-up the meter every few hours if parked here for a long concert. Also watch for temporary parking restrictions posted for Soldier Field events. Parts of DuSable Lake Shore Drive and some side streets are closed to parking on event days.
Parking Apps
Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help you reserve guaranteed parking spaces in various garages and lots around Soldier Field. Rates may be discounted versus just showing up. This takes some of the guesswork out of parking and ensures you have a spot locked in.
Review the location carefully as many spots will be a 15-30 minute walk away from the stadium. Factor in extra time to walk or take public transportation like the CTA bus or train.
Public Transportation
Taking public transportation is an easy way to avoid parking altogether. From downtown hotels, you can walk or take a quick cab or rideshare to Soldier Field.
The CTA Red Line stops at the Roosevelt Station just a few blocks south of the stadium. Or you can take one of several CTA bus routes that stop right at Soldier Field along McFetridge Drive.
Parking Tips
If you plan to drive and park, here are some tips for making it go smoothly:
- Arrive early – At least 4-5 hours before concert start to get closest parking.
- Prepay for parking – Buy passes online in advance when available.
- Check signs and apps – For changing restrictions and availability.
- Have backup options – In case your first choice lot is full.
- Watch time limits – And re-up meters to avoid tickets.
- Travel light – Limit what you carry to make walking easier.
- charge your phone – So you have access to maps and apps for locating car.
Giving yourself plenty of time and having flexibility on where you can park will make the experience less stressful.
While parking very close to Soldier Field is ideal, you may save money and frustration by parking a bit farther away and walking or taking public transit. This avoids the gridlock closest to the stadium.
Parking Locations Map
This map shows the major parking lots and garages within a 20 minute walk of Soldier Field:
As you can see, most facilities are clustered to the east and south of the stadium. The main on-site lots are in red in Grant Park. Nearby garages are marked in blue.
Areas farther west and north have less availability, so focus your search east of Lake Shore Drive and south of Roosevelt.
Estimated Walk Times
Here are estimated walk times from parking facilities around Soldier Field:
| Parking Location | Distance to Soldier Field | Estimated Walk Time |
|---|---|---|
| Soldier Field Main Lot | 0.5 miles away | 10 minutes |
| Millennium Park Garage | 1 mile away | 15-20 minutes |
| Auditorium Garage | 0.7 miles away | 15 minutes |
| University Center Garage | 0.9 miles away | 15-20 minutes |
The on-site Soldier Field lots are certainly the fastest walking distance. But the garages only about 1 mile away are still very reasonable walks, taking 15-20 minutes.
Farther options like 2+ miles away will involve longer walks of 30+ minutes, or require additional public transportation. So aim for facilities within about a 1 mile radius for the most convenient concert access.
Parking Costs
Here are the typical parking rates at facilities near Soldier Field:
| Parking Location | Event Parking Rate |
|---|---|
| Soldier Field Main Lot | $40-60 |
| Millennium Park Garage | $40 |
| Auditorium Garage | $30 |
| University Center Garage | $25 |
| Grant Park South Garage | $30 |
| Soldier Field South Lot | $50 |
As you can see, the Soldier Field lots on site offer convenience but at a premium price. Nearby garages can save you $10-30 per car, if you don’t mind a short walk.
Metered street parking is cheapest at around $2-6 per hour. But you’ll need to feed the meters regularly for longer events.
Transportation Options
If you prefer not to deal with parking, Soldier Field is accessible using Chicago’s public transportation:
CTA Buses – Several buses stop right at Soldier Field along McFetridge Drive, including #128, #130, #146, #148, #151.
Metra Trains – Nearby stations include Museum Campus/11th Street, Roosevelt Road, and 18th Street.
CTA Red Line – Roosevelt station is 0.7 miles away – about a 15 minute walk.
Rideshares – Drop-off zones are located on east side of Soldier Field at Entry 5.
Pedicabs – These bicycle taxis operate near Soldier Field for short rides.
Boats – The Soldier Field Express boat runs from downtown on event days.
Bike – There is a Divvy bike share station outside the north entrance.
With so many convenient public transit options, you can skip parking altogether. Just account for extra travel time so you don’t miss the start of the concert.
Conclusion
Parking for major events at Chicago’s Soldier Field can be competitive and expensive. But with some savvy planning, you can find acceptable parking within a reasonable walking distance.
Arrive early to secure an on-site spot, which fill up fastest but offer the shortest walk. Nearby garages generally cost less and are still within a 15-20 minute walk.
Wherever you park, be sure to note the location and time limits. And consider public transportation alternatives like the CTA or rideshares if you’d rather not deal with parking at all. This comprehensive guide covers all your options, so you can choose the best parking strategy for a stress-free concert experience.
