Baseball is America’s pastime, and what better way to experience it than a visit to one of the most historic stadiums in the country, Wrigley Field in Chicago - host to five World Series games between 1929 and 1945.
Wrigley Field was built in 1914 and has been home to the famed Chicago Cubs baseball team since 1916. Named after the Wrigley Chewing Gum icon William Wrigley Jr. the stadium has become such an institution in the north side Chicago neighbourhood where it sits that the streets surrounding it have become known as Wrigleyville. Home games have become community events as neighbourhood bars and restaurants surrounding the stadium have erected seating on their own rooftops. Known as “Wrigley rooftops”, these bleacher seats outside of the stadium offer a unique way to enjoy the game as well as the local hospitality.
The second oldest major league stadium in the country (just after Boston’s 1912 Fenway Park) Wrigley Field is also one of the smallest. Its many interesting features distinguish this landmark and make it a stand-out favourite among stadiums, among them being the large and iconic red marquee above the entrance welcoming fans since the 1930’s. Wrigley Field is the last with an ivy covered brick outfield wall. Baseballs are even lost in the tangled green web from time to time. Of course the vintage hand-turned scoreboard is another historic element bringing history to life in this wonderful stadium and yet another nod to baseball’s great past. Tradition really does live on at Wrigley Field.
Wrigley Field can be reached by Chicago’s train and elevated CTA system known as the “L.” The red line stops at Addison just next door to the ballpark. Fans are strongly urged to take public transportation as parking is limited. Games are held at Wrigley Field between May and September. Tickets may be purchased on the Cub’s website, at the Wrigley Field advance ticket sales window located outside Gate F or by telephone 1-800-THE- CUBS.
