How to Choose the Best Cubs Parking Spot Before the Rush
Cubs baseball fills Wrigleyville with energy and excitement. The smell of hot dogs floats down Clark Street, and a sea of blue jerseys streams toward the heart of the city’s North Side. But before enjoying the famous Chicago Cubs game day, you face a big challenge: finding the right parking spot.
Parking for Chicago Cubs games is not easy. Streets fill up hours before the first pitch, and the crowd grows as game time nears. If you do not plan ahead, you may drive in circles searching, stressed, and late as the buzz dies down inside the stadium. Choosing the right Cubs Game Parking spot early makes your day easy and fun. Good parking puts you close to the action, saves money, and gets you to your seat right on time. When you find the right spot, you feel relaxed, eager, and part of the game day excitement.
Let us look at what you need to know before setting out for the next Cubs game.
Understanding Cubs Game Parking Options
When you look for parking for Chicago Cubs, options crowd your mind. Some lots may sound good, but not all work well for every fan. The type of parking you pick changes how you enjoy your game day. Wrigleyville is lively, but it also feels jam-packed on game days.
Here are the types of parking you will find around Wrigley Field-
- Official Cubs Parking Lots: These are the lots owned or run by the Cubs.
- Nearby Private Lots and Garages: Many homes, businesses, and paid garages rent spots to fans.
- Public Garages: Standard parking garages, you pay for by the hour or day.
- Remote/Park-and-Ride Lots: Park farther away and take a shuttle or transit.
- Neighborhood/Street Parking: You hunt for open spots along residential streets.
Think about what is most important: Do you want to walk less? Save money? Leave the game fast? Each option fits different fans.
Official Cubs Parking Lots
Official Cubs lots sit close to Wrigley Field. These include the Toyota Camry Lot (formerly the Green Lot), Irving Park Lot and remote Park-and-Ride at 3900 N. Rockwell Street. These lots tend to:
- Fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Offer a short walk to the gates.
- Cost more than street or private lots, with rates from $35 to $60 per game.
- Usually have staff and basic security.
If you value a reliable spot and want a sense of security, official lots are easy but come with a higher price. These work well for families, older adults, and those unsure about street parking rules.
Nearby Private Lots and Garages
Private lots vary in size, price, and distance to the ballpark. Businesses, churches, and even homes near Wrigley open their garages or lots on game days. You will also find paid public garages within a 15-minute walk.
Many private lots use platforms such as Wrigley Parking. You can-
- Reserve and pay for a spot with your phone.
- See security and accessibility features.
- Compare prices, often saving $5–$20 over official lots.
- Check if the lot or garage is covered or open-air.
Private lots and garages fit fans who want quick exits and more choice about price and distance. They also work well for those who want to pay in advance without waiting in line.
Street Parking in Wrigleyville
Street parking near Wrigley Field is limited and comes with rules. Much of the area uses a residential permit system. If you park in the wrong place, police may ticket or tow your car.
- Most non-permit spots are farther out, often four or more blocks away.
- Some metered spots may be free after 10 p.m. or during specific hours.
- Read every sign closely. Many streets switch to permit-only on game days.
- Walking alone at night can feel unsafe in busy city areas.
Street parking is the cheapest but also the riskiest. If you have mobility concerns or young children, you may want to look at other options.
For more information, also read: Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Cubs Parking Online
Choosing the Best Cubs Parking Spot: Factors to Consider
The right spot for Cubs Game Parking depends on your needs. A single fan may value price, while a family may value safety and distance. Your choice also shapes how you leave after the ninth inning, when crowds pour out and traffic slows to a crawl.
Here are factors to think about before you decide.
Proximity to Wrigley Field and Entrance Gates
Walking distance matters. Some official and private lots are a block or two from the main gates, while others make you walk 15 minutes or more. If you come with small children or carry gear, a shorter walk can make a big impact.
Map out the lot location before booking. Some gates get less crowded, so parking near a less-used entrance helps you skip the post-game bottleneck.
Think about sidewalks and the neighborhood. Longer walks add time and may feel tiring, especially after extra innings. During evening games, look for well-lit and busy routes.
Safety and Neighborhood Considerations
Not every lot feels the same at night. Look for features like-
- Good lighting and security cameras
- Staff on-site before and after the game
- Fencing or gates that block passersby from the lot
Stick to trusted parking companies and avoid random lots that seem poorly marked. The best garages have post attendants and make you feel safe to walk alone or with kids. You want a place where your car and your family feel safe both coming and going.
Pricing, Reservations, and Cancellation Policies
Parking for the Chicago Cubs can get expensive on popular game days. Prices may change with demand, day of the week, or opponent. Compare prices between official and private lots. Some lots raise prices last minute, so paying ahead of time saves money.
Look at these tips-
- Reserve your spot online or with an app before you travel.
- Check if the lot allows free or low-cost cancellation (in case weather or plans change).
- Watch for “hidden” fees or taxes in app bookings.
Families, fans with disabilities, and budget visitors each have different needs. Families may want easy stroller or wheelchair use, while those on a budget may be fine with a longer walk for a lower price.
The Bottom Line
Parking for a Cubs game can feel like a puzzle, but making a plan is worth your time. The best Cubs Game Parking spots offer a mix of convenience, safety, and value that help you enjoy the day instead of fighting crowds. You will enjoy the game, the cheers, and the city twice as much if you secure your parking before the streets fill up.
Make your next game day easy by comparing all options, checking rules, and reserving early. Take advantage of resources to find the perfect spot and get back to what matters: cheering for the Chicago Cubs from your seat, not your steering wheel. Plan ahead and make your next Wrigley Field trip smooth and fun.
FAQs
The best way is to book your parking online before you leave. You can compare different lots, prices, and how far they are from Wrigley Field. This saves time and helps you avoid driving around looking for a spot while the game is starting.
Some street parking is allowed, but much of the area is permit-only on game days. If you do not read the signs carefully, your car might get a ticket or even be towed. It is cheaper, but riskier, especially if you are not familiar with the neighborhood or arriving late. If you are not sure, a paid lot might give you more sense of security.
Try to arrive at least 90 minutes before the game starts, especially on weekends or when the Cubs are playing a big rival. Spots fill fast, and traffic builds quickly around Wrigleyville. The earlier you get there, the better your chances of finding a close, safe spot without feeling rushed.
Yes, many parking apps and websites let you cancel your spot, sometimes for free or for a small fee. Always check the cancellation policy before booking. If the weather turns bad or your schedule shifts, it is good to know you can get a refund or rebook easily.