Since the Chicago Cubs were established all the way back in 1870, Chicago has been a vibrant sports town with no shortage of great traditions and passionate fans. Although the Windy City’s five major sports franchises have combined for a total of 18 championships, there have also been quite a few disappointing moments, seasons, years and decades over the past century of Chicago of sports. Regardless of the current status of their beloved teams, you can undoubtedly always count on Chicago sports fans to show up and proudly root for the home team, even in sub-zero temperatures.
Having won three Stanley Cup Championships so far this decade, catching the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center is clearly the hottest ticket in town. Located just west of The Loop, the United Center is the largest arena in the United States and is often packed beyond official capacity with spectators purchasing standing-room only tickets. Although the NHL season typically runs through the winter, the Blackhawks often expect to make it deep into the playoffs and continue hosting home games well into May and June.
Nothing says summertime in Chicago like taking in a Cubs game at the beautiful and historic Wrigley Field. Cleverly located in the “Wrigleyville” section of the Lake View neighborhood, the stadium famed for its ivy walls and authentic vintage baseball vibe is located just north of downtown Chicago. Even for a weekday afternoon game the entire neighborhood is transformed into party central, as fans pack the nearby watering holes hours before and after taking in the ballgame. Historic taverns like Murphy’s Bleachers and The Cubby Bear are absolutely on the itinerary for any first-time visitors to Wrigley Field.
When the cool fall breeze begins blowing over Lake Michigan it’s time to head to Soldier Field to catch a Chicago Bears NFL game. Originally constructed in 1924 and heavily upgraded in 2002, Soldier Field has been synonymous with hard-nosed gridiron football for as long as most fans can remember. Located just steps from Lake Shore Drive, Soldier Field is noted for treacherous weather conditions and an authentic Kentucky Bluegrass field that bring problems for visiting teams and give the Bears a true home field advantage.
Sharing the United Center with the Blackhawks, the Chicago Bulls have been a premier NBA franchise since Michael Jordan led them to six NBA Championships in the 1990s. A much easier ticket to get than the Blackhawks at this time, Bulls games are still an amazing experience for the entire family, as they are full of fast-paced athleticism and the clever antics of world famous mascot Benny the Bull.
