Transport to Soldier Field before and after game

Question

Hi.

We’re watching the Bears Vikings game next Sunday. As the kick off is at 12 I’m thinking arrive around 2 hours before?

Also what’s the easiest way to get there before and after the game? We’re staying on East Wacker Drive, Downtown.

Don’t mind getting an Uber but I would guess it’s not the best option post game due to the crowds?

We was going to visit the Shedd Aquarium straight after and then into the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights in the evening but it could end up an exhausting day. Especially the way the Bears are playing at the moment!

Many thanks in advance

Answer

It sounds like you're in for an exciting day at Soldier Field! Given the timing of the game and the places you're visiting afterward, it’s good to plan your transportation carefully to avoid stress, especially with the crowds post-game. Here's some advice:

1. Arriving Before the Game:

Since the game starts at 12 PM and you plan to arrive about two hours early, you should aim to get to Soldier Field by around 10:30 AM. That will give you plenty of time to find parking or get dropped off, go through security, and settle in before kickoff.

The easiest way to get to Soldier Field from East Wacker Drive would be by Uber or Lyft. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, but make sure to allow some extra time for delays on game day, especially with road closures and crowds around Soldier Field.

2. Post-Game Transportation:

You're right to be cautious about taking an Uber post-game because the area around Soldier Field gets very congested after large events. Traffic can be heavy and rideshare pickup locations can be crowded and difficult to navigate. Here are some options:

Public Transportation: If you want to avoid the post-game traffic chaos, using the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) is a great option. You can take the #146 bus from Soldier Field to various downtown locations, or catch the Red Line from the Roosevelt station (right next to Soldier Field). The subway is quick and avoids the traffic, making it an efficient option.
Walking to a Different Pickup Spot: If you're set on using an Uber or Lyft, it might be easier to walk a little farther from Soldier Field, like near Grant Park or the Museum Campus, where there’s less congestion. This can help you avoid waiting in long lines at the designated pickup zones directly by the stadium.
Taxi: Taxis also line up near Soldier Field, and though it might not be as fast as rideshare, there tends to be a separate line for taxis, so you might get a ride a bit quicker. However, taxi fares might be higher depending on the demand.

3. Visiting the Shedd Aquarium and Lincoln Park Zoo Lights:

After the game, visiting the Shedd Aquarium is a good choice since it’s nearby (just a short walk from Soldier Field). Afterward, you can head to the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, which are also a short drive away. However, if you plan to walk between these attractions, be prepared for a bit of a stretch, especially with the cold in winter.

Since you’ve got a packed day, consider how much time you'd like to spend at each place. The aquarium can take 1-2 hours, and Lincoln Park Zoo Lights might be a great evening stroll (about 45 minutes to an hour) to end the day. However, after a Bears game, it might get tiring, so if you feel like it, you can always cut one of these attractions short.

Additional Tip: If you're feeling tired or need a break, there are also some great nearby coffee shops or restaurants along the lakefront where you can relax before heading to your next stop!

Have a great time at the game, and enjoy the rest of your day exploring Chicago!