Parking is available at Soldier Field, but securing a space requires careful planning due to high demand from major events, such as professional football games and large concerts. The stadium is part of the larger Museum Campus, meaning parking facilities serve multiple attractions and increase competition for spots. Successfully parking near the venue depends on pre-event preparation and understanding the system of on-site reservations and overflow alternatives.
Primary On-Site Parking Locations
The facilities immediately surrounding the stadium are the primary on-site options. The main structures are the North Garage, the Waldron Deck, and the South Lot, all situated within the Museum Campus. The North Garage is the largest, providing thousands of covered parking spaces.
For Chicago Bears games, these three primary locations are generally restricted to permit holders who have pre-purchased season-long parking coupons. Cash is not accepted at the entry gates of the North Garage, Waldron Deck, or South Lot on event days. Other nearby facilities, including the East Museum Lot and the Adler Planetarium Lot, offer limited capacity but are often available for general parking, especially on non-event days.
Securing Your Spot: Reservations and Costs
For most major events at Soldier Field, securing a parking spot in advance through pre-paid reservation is mandatory. Fans must purchase these passes online through the official parking vendor or its partners. This system replaces drive-up cash payment at the main facilities.
The cost of parking is variable, often escalating significantly for high-demand events like football games or concerts. Major event rates reflect the premium charged for proximity and convenience. Parking lots generally open approximately four hours before the event begins. Cash parking is usually limited to the Adler Planetarium Lot and the Burnham Harbor Lot, and these spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nearby Overflow Lots and Transit Options
For attendees unable to secure on-site parking, several overflow facilities are available. McCormick Place Lot B, located south of the stadium, is a popular option offering a free shuttle service to and from Soldier Field for Chicago Bears games. The shuttle drop-off and pickup area is typically located near 18th Street and operates for a limited time after the game concludes.
Several downtown garages, including the Grant Park and Millennium Garages, also provide parking alternatives, though they do not offer a dedicated shuttle service. Public transportation is available via the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), which runs the #128 Soldier Field Express and the #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express bus routes directly to the campus. The Metra Electric Line’s 18th Street Station is also within walking distance of the venue. Designated zones for rideshare and taxi drop-off and pickup are established on event days, with restrictions enforced on DuSable Lake Shore Drive to maintain traffic flow.