If you’re planning a trip to Chicago and love sports, vibrant nightlife, and historic charm, Wrigleyville is one neighborhood you cannot miss. As the home of Wrigley Field, one of Major League Baseball’s most iconic stadiums, Wrigleyville offers more than just baseball games. From bustling bars and rooftop views to classic Chicago eateries and a welcoming community vibe, Wrigleyville has its own distinct energy that makes it a must-see when visiting the Windy City. But before you jump into the fun, it’s important to know: Where is Wrigleyville in Chicago?
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Wrigleyville, including its location, what to expect, and why it’s become one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods for both locals and tourists.
Where Is Wrigleyville in Chicago?
Wrigleyville is a lively neighborhood on the north side of Chicago. It is part of a larger area called Lakeview, which itself is one of the 77 community areas that make up the city. Wrigleyville’s centerpiece is Wrigley Field, the second-oldest ballpark in the country and home to the beloved Chicago Cubs. The neighborhood derives its name from the stadium, and most of its activity revolves around baseball, especially during the season when the Cubs are playing.
Wrigleyville is bordered by several key streets:
To the north, it’s bordered by Irving Park Road.
To the south, Addison Street runs directly in front of Wrigley Field and serves as a central hub.
To the east, it’s bordered by Halsted Street.
To the west, you’ll find the boundary along Ashland Avenue.
Wrigleyville is a part of the greater Lakeview area, which also includes several other sub-neighborhoods, such as Lakeview East and Southport Corridor. However, Wrigleyville is the most famous of these due to its association with Cubs baseball and the nightlife that has blossomed around it.
How to Get to Wrigleyville
As a travel blogger who has visited Wrigleyville multiple times, I can tell you that getting to this neighborhood is incredibly easy, thanks to Chicago’s excellent public transportation system. Whether you’re staying in downtown Chicago or another neighborhood, there are several convenient ways to get to Wrigleyville.
By CTA (Chicago Transit Authority)
One of the best ways to reach Wrigleyville is by taking the CTA ‘L’ train. The CTA, or Chicago Transit Authority, operates the city’s trains and buses, and it is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to get around.
Red Line: The most direct way to get to Wrigleyville is by taking the Red Line northbound to the Addison Station. The Addison stop is just steps away from Wrigley Field, and from there, you’ll be right in the heart of Wrigleyville. This route is particularly convenient if you’re staying in downtown Chicago, as the Red Line runs through many of the city’s most popular areas, including The Loop, River North, and Magnificent Mile.
Purple Line: If you’re coming from the northern suburbs or staying in the Evanston area, you can take the Purple Line to the Red Line and then transfer at Howard Station before continuing south to Addison.
Brown Line: The Brown Line doesn’t go directly to Wrigleyville, but you can get off at the Belmont Station, which is just a short walk from the main action. Alternatively, you can transfer to the Red Line at Belmont and continue one stop north to Addison.
See Also: Where Is Pilsen Neighborhood in Chicago
By Bus
In addition to the ‘L’ train, several bus routes run through or near Wrigleyville. Here are a few options:
Bus 22 (Clark Street): This bus runs along Clark Street, which is one of the main streets in Wrigleyville. The 22 bus is a great option if you’re coming from neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Edgewater.
Bus 152 (Addison Street): The 152 bus runs along Addison Street, the same street as Wrigley Field, making it another convenient option. It connects with the Red Line at Addison Station and the Brown Line at Addison Brown Line Station.
Bus 9 (Ashland Avenue): The 9 bus runs along Ashland Avenue, which borders the western edge of Wrigleyville. This bus is perfect if you’re coming from neighborhoods like Uptown or West Town.
By Car or Ride-Share
While public transportation is the easiest and most efficient way to reach Wrigleyville, you can also drive or take a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. Just be aware that parking can be limited, especially on Cubs game days, when tens of thousands of fans flock to the area.
There are several paid parking lots around Wrigleyville, but it’s best to plan ahead and check availability. Many streets in the neighborhood require resident parking permits, so be cautious if you’re parking on the street.
By Bike or On Foot
Chicago is a bike-friendly city, and Wrigleyville is no exception. You’ll find bike lanes on many of the streets around the neighborhood, and there are plenty of bike racks where you can securely lock your bike while you explore.
If you’re staying nearby in neighborhoods like Lakeview East or Lincoln Park, walking to Wrigleyville is also a great option. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks and plenty of places to stop and take in the sights along the way.
What to Do in Wrigleyville
Now that you know how to get to Wrigleyville, let’s talk about what to do once you arrive. While baseball may be the main draw, Wrigleyville offers plenty of activities, attractions, and experiences that go beyond Wrigley Field.
Wrigley Field Tours
Even if you’re not attending a game, taking a Wrigley Field tour is a must for sports fans. Wrigley Field is steeped in history, having opened in 1914, and the tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic ballpark. You’ll get to explore the dugouts, press box, locker rooms, and even step out onto the field.
Tours are available year-round, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during the baseball season when slots fill up quickly.
Catch a Cubs Game
Of course, one of the main reasons people visit Wrigleyville is to catch a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Watching a Cubs game is a quintessential Chicago experience, and even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, the lively atmosphere, historic stadium, and passionate fans make it worth attending.
The Cubs season runs from April through October, with plenty of home games to choose from. Be sure to check the schedule in advance and get your tickets early, especially for weekend games and marquee matchups.
Explore the Wrigleyville Bars and Rooftops
One of the things that makes Wrigleyville unique is its bustling bar scene, especially on game days. Clark Street, in particular, is lined with lively bars, sports pubs, and rooftops where you can grab a drink, watch the game, or simply soak up the energy of the neighborhood.
Some popular spots include:
Murphy’s Bleachers: This is one of Wrigleyville’s most famous sports bars, located directly across the street from Wrigley Field’s iconic bleachers. It’s a favorite gathering spot for Cubs fans both before and after games.
The Cubby Bear: Located at the corner of Clark and Addison, The Cubby Bear is another legendary Wrigleyville bar known for its live music, sports screenings, and energetic vibe.
Rooftop Venues: If you’re looking for a unique way to watch the game, check out one of Wrigleyville’s rooftop venues. These buildings, located just outside Wrigley Field, offer rooftop seating with views of the game, along with food, drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere. Some popular rooftop spots include Wrigley View Rooftop, 3609 Wrigley Rooftop, and Skybox on Sheffield.
Portland’s Gastropub Scene
Wrigleyville isn’t all about sports bars. Over the years, the neighborhood has developed a food scene worth exploring, particularly gastropubs and casual dining spots offering elevated takes on classic American dishes.
Smoke Daddy BBQ: This well-known Chicago BBQ joint has a location right in the heart of Wrigleyville. Grab some smoked ribs, brisket, or pulled pork and pair it with one of their craft beers.
Big Star Wrigleyville: A casual spot serving tacos, margaritas, and whiskey, Big Star brings the flavor of the original location in Wicker Park to Wrigleyville. The laid-back, beer-garden vibe is perfect for a relaxed meal before or after the game.
Shopping in Wrigleyville
If you’re a Cubs fan, you won’t want to leave Wrigleyville without some official Cubs gear. The area is home to several shops selling everything from jerseys to baseball caps, including the official Cubs Team Store at Wrigley Field.
For non-sports-related shopping, check out the small boutiques and specialty stores along Clark Street and Southport Avenue, which offer a range of unique items from local artisans.
Conclusion
Wrigleyville is more than just a baseball neighborhood. While it’s home to one of the most famous stadiums in America, Wrigleyville offers a dynamic mix of sports culture, nightlife, history, and local charm that make it one of Chicago’s top destinations.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Chicago or a seasoned traveler, Wrigleyville offers something for everyone. Its central location, just north of downtown, makes it easy to reach by public transportation, and once you’re there, you’ll find no shortage of things to do. From catching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field to exploring the lively bar scene or shopping for unique finds, Wrigleyville captures the essence of Chicago’s vibrant, sports-loving culture.
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