Bear down, Chicago Bears! Opening Day is Sunday, Sept. 8 at Soldier Field when Da Bears will take on the Tennessee Titans.
Whether it’s your child’s first Bears game or your family bleeds navy and orange, make your game day at Soldier Field a win with these tips for scoring the best family deals and navigating the stadium with ease.
This article was recently updated on Aug. 8, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Assistant Editor, Nikki Roberts. The update included her research and fact-checking expertise to provide the latest information on kid-friendly things to do at Chicago Bears’ games during the 2024 season. Questions? Please reach out to nikki@chicagoparent.com.
Quick Details about Soldier Field
- Address: 1410 Special Olympics Drive, Chicago
- Season: Opening Day is Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024.
- Getting there: CTA red, orange and green lines stop at the Roosevelt Station, which is less than a mile from the stadium. From there, the 130 and 146 CTA buses service Soldier Field. For Metra commuters, the closest station is 18th Street Station. Use the RTA planner to plan your trip using public transit.
- Parking: The North Parking Garage, East Museum Lot and Adler Planetarium Lot are open on game days. Rates vary depending on the events happening at Museum Campus that day. Purchase your parking pass in advance to save on daily rates and guarantee a spot.
Purchasing tickets for a Chicago Bears game
- Mobile tickets are required for entry. Download your tickets to your phone’s digital wallet before you go to avoid issues with poor Wi-Fi or cellular service.
- Children under 32 inches tall do not need a paid ticket, but they do need a complimentary lap pass to enter Soldier Field. Lap passes can be obtained at the Gate 8 Ticket Office on game day. Ticket holders may obtain one lap pass per ticket, and their child may not occupy a seat during the game.
Tips for families attending a Chicago Bears game
- Download the Chicago Bears mobile app before you go for easy access to your tickets, a stadium map and the team roster. Plus, there are plenty of exclusive in-app activities and prizes!
- The NFL Bag Policy only allows bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″. This includes clear backpacks, clear fanny packs and clear cinch bags that fit within the permissible dimensions.
- Diapers must be carried in a clear bag.
- Strollers are not allowed in Soldier Field.
- chargeFUZE charging stations are located at eight locations throughout the stadium. Free Wi-Fi is available on game days.
- Avoid concession stand prices and pack your own snacks. All food items must be in a clear zip-close bag that meets the NFL Bag Policy.
- Stop by a Fan Services booth to get a kids ID bracelet that is personalized with your contact information. Lost children will be escorted to the Gate 1 Guest Services office by a youth officer.
- Every restroom is ADA-accessible and includes a changing station.
- Family restrooms are located near Sections 121, 146, 154, 320, 354, 435, 437, 439; in the 100 Level United Club, and Sections 202, 216.
- Nursing stations are located in the Dr. Pepper Patio/South Courtyard; inside Gate 25 on the lower-level mezzanine; in the First Aid Offices inside Gate 17; and in the 300 Level United Club.
What to do at Soldier Field
Other than cheer on da Bears, of course!
- Stop by Fan Services to get a free personalized certificate for your little Bears fan to commemorate their first game. You can also pick up a “It’s My First Game!” or “It’s My Birthday” button.
- Visit the South Courtyard/Dr. Pepper Patio, the home of Staley’s Corner and the Chicago Bears Kids Zone. Meet Staley Da Bear, dance with the Chicago Bears Drumline and participate in family-friendly activities starting two hours before the game.
Other Chicago Bears activities
- Join the Chicago Bears Kids Club or sign your tiny cub up for the Baby Bears program. Both clubs offer age-appropriate Bears events, at-home activities and exclusive giveaways.
- Attend Bears Training Camp. Every summer, the Bears hold FREE public practices. Watch the team prepare for a winning season and enjoy games, activities, autograph sessions, mascot meet-and-greets, photo ops and so much more.
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