Game Day Guide
Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Data updated: 2025 NFL Season
The Chronology
Your complete game day timeline at Soldier Field.
Parking Lots Open
South Lot and museum campus parking open. Tailgaters start setting up grills and claiming spots along the lakefront.
Tailgate Scene Builds
The South Lot and surrounding areas fill up with grills, music, and bags games. Walk the lakefront and soak in the atmosphere.
Gates Open
Stadium gates open. Head in early to explore the concourses, grab an Italian beef, and watch warmups from the lower bowl.
Player Warmups
Players take the field for warmups. Great photo opportunities from the end zone sections.
Find Your Seats
Get settled with food and drinks. The pregame video and player introductions are worth being in your seat for.
Game Time
Bear Down, Chicago Bears. Join 61,500 fans in one of the NFL's most storied venues with the Chicago skyline as your backdrop.
Exit Strategy
Walk north through Grant Park to reach CTA and Metra stations. Museum campus clears in 30-45 minutes. Many fans head to nearby South Loop bars.
Atmosphere Intelligence
Weather forecast for the Soldier Field bowl. This is an open-air venue -- dress for the conditions.
September
2.8 inchesWarm and pleasant, great game day weather. Sunscreen for afternoon games, light layers for evening.
October
3.5 inchesComfortable temperatures. Bring a light jacket for evening games. Layers are key.
November
2.4 inchesBrisk and chilly. Dress in layers with a warm jacket. Gloves and a hat for evening games.
December
1.8 inchesBundle up, winter coat, hat, gloves, and hand warmers recommended. Insulated boots for late games.
January
1.5 inchesBundle up, winter coat, hat, gloves, and hand warmers recommended. Insulated boots for late games.