Guaranteed Rate Field
Overview
Guaranteed Rate Field on Chicago's South Side has undergone significant renovations to modernize the ballpark experience. Known for its unique features like the exploding scoreboard and shower in the bleachers, it offers great views of the Chicago skyline.
Stadium Highlights
- Exploding scoreboard with fireworks
- Chicago skyline views
- Fundamentals skills area
- Craft Kave craft beer destination
Unique Features
- Exploding pinwheel scoreboard
- Rain shower in center field
- Stadium Club restaurant
- Fundamentals youth training area
Shade & Sun Protection Guide
Best Shaded Sections by Time
Morning Games
- Upper Deck 521-540 third base
- Scout Seats
- Stadium Club
Afternoon Games
- Upper Deck 540-555
- Sections 140-155 third base
- Club Level
Evening Games
- First base side after 5:30 PM
- Sections 110-130
- Most upper deck
Shade Tips
- Third base side gets afternoon shade
- Upper deck has significant overhang
- Lower bowl stays sunny longer
- Club Level has indoor access
Monthly Weather Patterns
April
Cold and windy
Bundle up
May
Variable spring
Layers needed
June
Pleasant
Upper deck for shade
July
Hot and humid
Shade essential
August
Humid summer
Evening games best
September
Cooling down
Most sections comfortable
Seating Guide
Premium Seating Options
Club Levels
Scout Seats
Behind home plate
- All-inclusive food/drinks
- Padded seats
- Waitstaff
Stadium Club
Club level
- Restaurant dining
- Private bar
- Climate control
Seating Tips
Scout Seats
Premium all-inclusive experience
experienceUpper 544-554
Best value with shade
valueSections 145-155
Good shade and sightlines
shadeBleachers
Party atmosphere but sunny
experienceBudget-Friendly Options
- Upper Reserved 500s
- Bleachers
- Outfield Reserved
Food & Drink
Signature Items
- Maxwell Street Polish
- Elote corn
- Helmet nachos
- Cuban sandwich
Local Favorites
- Buona Beef
- Beggar's Pizza
- Goose Island
- Minnie Minoso's Cuban
Beer & Beverages
- Goose Island
- Revolution
- Modelo
- Miller Lite
Local breweries: Goose Island, Revolution, Half Acre, Lagunitas
Getting There
Address
333 W 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60616
Parking Options
Lot B
Closest to stadium
Lot C
Good value
Lot L
Budget option
Alternative Transportation
Public Transit
- Red Line to Sox-35th Station
- Multiple bus routes
Ride Share: 35th Street designated zones
Game Day Tips
Early Arrival
Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen for day games
Local Food
Try the stadium signature items
Beat Traffic
Leave early or stay late to avoid congestion
Typical Game Day Schedule
- Gates Open: 90 minutes before first pitch
- First Pitch: 7:10 PM weekdays, various weekend times
Neighborhood: Bridgeport
Historic South Side neighborhood
Before the Game
- Cork & Kerry
- Turtle's Bar & Grill
- Jimbo's
- Schaller's Pump
After the Game
- Bridgeport bars
- Chinatown (10 min)
- South Loop (15 min)
Insider Tips
Pro Tips
- Exploding scoreboard is iconic
- Craft Kave has excellent selection
- FUNdamentals great for kids
- Tailgating scene is strong
Best Value
- Upper deck very affordable
- Monday deals throughout park
- Bleachers cheap and fun
Hidden Gems
- Shower in center field bleachers
- Minnie Minoso statue
- Champions plaques
Things to Avoid
- Bleachers on hot days
- Driving from North Side
- Missing fireworks shows
Stadium History
Timeline
Stadium Traditions
Southpaw
Green mascot
Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye
Opposing pitcher removal song
Fireworks
After home runs and wins