Yes, I’ve been sprayed with champagne in World Series locker rooms as the broadcast coordinator for Major League Baseball in New York City. I sat 11 rows behind the plate and watched the ball soar to Aisle 4, Row 8, Seat 113 at “the Bartman game.” But most notably, my family drove back and forth from Wrigley Field to Progressive Field, following each game played in the 2016 World Series. We were at Game seven, when the Cubs won it all for the first time in 108 years.
Hopefully now you feel comfortable moving on with the article, knowing you are in good hands preparing for your very first game. Heck, even if it’s your 100th game, there are still ways to make your next trip to Wrigley your best one yet.
Here are five things you must do for your very first Cubs game and beyond.
Take the L
Take the red line to Addison, you won’t regret it. As you wind through the city on your way to Wrigleyville, you’ll experience the culture of the city, the people, and most likely, hundreds of other Cubs fans gearing up to cheer on their team. If you’re bringing your little ones, watch as their pride for the city grows deep roots from point A to Addison Street.
Make a sign, and hold it high
There are sign spotters in cahoots with cameramen. I know this because I lived out of a production truck each post-season. Get as creative as possible because they want to find you, and they want to put you on TV. Want even better chances of being a 10-second celebrity on WGN? Read my next point.
Dress accordingly
The only two colors you will need in your wardrobe on this day are red and blue, and the only two words allowed to be printed on those colors are Chicago and Cubs. It’s definitely more fun to buy your gear from the vendors in Wrigleyville like Wrigleyville Sports or Chicago Sports & Novelty, or even inside the stadium. However, it is much cheaper to buy in advance. So If you want to save cash on your threads, hit up eBay or sift through your local thrift shop for some pre-loved steals on Cubs gear.
Eat
Taste the culture of the ballpark, drink the culture of the ball park, and you will be a part of the culture of the ballpark. Wrigley is packed with local treasures like Giordano’s Pizza, Chicago Dogs, Pork & Mindy’s and Buona Beef. The smell of peanuts and local foods is intoxicating, so soak it in.
Go to a rooftop bar afterwards
This works better if it’s an early game. If it’s a later game, head to Wrigleyville early and pre-game. There’s a buzz about Wrigleyville on a game days. A feeling that I haven’t experienced at any other ballpark in all of my travels while working for MLB.
Wrigley Field can fill you up with pride for Chicago that will have you questioning what you were feeling before, so see it from all angles. After you've approached it from the L, walked the exterior, and have had seats in its interior, you must experience it from above. Old Crow, Casey Moran’s, Moe’s Cantina (new rooftop), Brickhouse Tavern (elevated terrace), and Murphy’s Bleachers (tickets needed) are a few of my favorite places to enjoy the sights below.
Did I miss any of your favorites? Find me at @ChicagoMomGoesSuburban and let me know!
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