Rate Field Travel Guide

Thinking about heading to Rate Field, the home of the Chicago White Sox? This guide should help you get the most out of your trip to this often overlooked baseball treasure on Chicago’s South Side. Trust me, you’ll want to arrive early and buy parking in advance—the lots open two hours before each game, and it saves you a headache.

Wrigley Field usually steals the spotlight, but Rate Field has its own vibe. You’ll find accessible seating on all levels, and there’s a solid view from pretty much anywhere, no matter your budget. If you’re looking for something a little different, swing by the Leinenkugel Lounge in right field—the view is cool, and you don’t need a special ticket.

Because Rate Field flies under the radar, you can usually score some great deals. Tickets tend to be easier on the wallet than at other MLB parks, especially if the Sox are having a tough season. It’s a friendly place for baseball fans who want the big-league experience without emptying their pockets.

Overview of Guaranteed Rate Field

Guaranteed Rate Field stands as Chicago’s modern ballpark, with some unique architectural touches, a layered history, and a few name changes along the way.

History of Rate Field

Guaranteed Rate Field opened in 1991, giving the Chicago White Sox a fresh home after decades at the legendary old Comiskey Park. That old park had been around since 1910—hard to believe, right?

They called the new place New Comiskey Park at first, a nod to its roots. The design marked a shift from the classic ballpark style to something more modern.

In 2003, the stadium switched to U.S. Cellular Field after a naming rights deal. That kicked off the era of corporate names for the Sox’s home, a trend that’s stuck around.

Stadium Architecture and Features

The stadium’s design includes 7,000 nearby parking spaces, and with the Dan Ryan Expressway right there, it’s pretty easy to drive in.

One spot that stands out: the centerfield deck on the Main Level. Usually, they reserve it for private events, but sometimes you’ll get lucky and it opens up to regular fans.

You’ll notice good sight lines all over the park. Over the years, they’ve renovated plenty, adding fan-friendly features but keeping the focus on baseball.

If you’re not driving, the Red Line drops you off right near the stadium, so public transit is a breeze.

Naming Rights and Ownership

In 2016, the stadium switched to Guaranteed Rate Field after the mortgage company bought naming rights. For now, that’s the name you’ll see everywhere.

The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority owns the ballpark and leases it to the White Sox. You see this setup with a lot of modern stadiums.

Jerry Reinsdorf, the White Sox chairman, has kept ownership of the team since the stadium opened. He’s played a big role in shaping the park’s features and upgrades.

You’ll spot the Guaranteed Rate logo—a big red arrow pointing down—on the scoreboard and all over the entrances.

Chicago White Sox and Game Day Experience

A visit to Rate Field means you get to dive into White Sox history and enjoy a bunch of activities before and during the game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just out for a good time with family, there’s something here for you.

Chicago White Sox Legacy

The Chicago White Sox have been around since 1901 as one of the original American League teams. They’ve won three World Series titles (1906, 1917, and 2005), and that 2005 win finally broke an 88-year drought—fans still talk about it.

Guaranteed Rate Field opened in 1991 (originally as Comiskey Park), and it’s seen its share of big moments. You’ll find tributes on the walls for White Sox legends like Frank Thomas, Harold Baines, and Paul Konerko.

Keep an eye out for the retired numbers and the famous “exploding scoreboard”—they set off fireworks for home runs. The concourse also has statues of White Sox greats that make for perfect photo ops.

Pre-Game Activities

Show up early to really soak in the White Sox experience. Parking lots open two hours before first pitch, so you’ve got time to join in on the pre-game fun.

Tailgating is a big thing here. Fans bring grills, coolers, and chairs, and the vibe is super friendly—even if you’re new.

You might want to take a guided tour of Guaranteed Rate Field for a peek behind the scenes. These tours let you check out spots like:

• The dugout
• Press box
• Luxury suites
• Batting cages (if available)

If you’re hungry, the ChiSox Bar & Grill near Gate 5 is a lively spot to grab food before heading inside, and it won’t drain your wallet as much as the stadium concessions.

Family-Friendly Events

Rate Field does a great job making young fans feel welcome. The Fundamentals area in left field has a wiffle ball diamond, batting cages, and pitching tunnels—kids love it.

Sunday games turn into “Kids Day.” If you’ve got children 13 or younger, they can run the bases after the game (as long as the weather cooperates).

Watch for Southpaw, the White Sox mascot, wandering the concourse for photos. On weekends, you’ll often see face painting and balloon artists, too.

They set aside a family-friendly section (usually up in the upper deck) where they don’t sell alcohol, which is a relief for parents. There are also nursing stations and family restrooms, making life a bit easier if you’re bringing little ones.

Planning Your Visit

A trip to Rate Field goes smoother if you plan ahead. Here’s what you’ll want to know about timing, tickets, and accessibility.

Best Time to Visit Rate Field

The baseball season runs from early April until late September, with the occasional playoff game in October. Summer (June–August) has the best weather, but crowds get bigger. If you want a more relaxed atmosphere, try April, May, or September.

Weeknight games usually have more available tickets and lower prices. First pitch is typically 7:10 PM for night games and 1:10 PM for day games.

Chicago weather can be all over the place. Early and late in the season, it might be chilly; in the summer, it can get hot and sticky. Always check the forecast and bring layers if you’re not sure.

Guaranteed Rate Field hosts theme nights and giveaways throughout the season—they’re worth checking out.

Ticket Purchasing Tips

Buy your tickets ahead of time through the official White Sox website to dodge those third-party fees. The earlier you buy, the better your options.

Ticket prices depend on:

• The opponent (big-name teams cost more)
• Day of the week (weekends are pricier)
• Where you sit
• Any special promos

If you’re on a budget:

• Upper deck seats start around $15–$20
• Outfield seats are a good deal at $25–$35
• “Family packs” include food and work well for groups

Sections 154–157 in right field hit a sweet spot for price and view.

Almost all tickets are digital now. Download the MLB Ballpark app before you go, so you’re not fumbling at the gate.

Accessibility Information

Rate Field makes accessibility a priority. You’ll find wheelchair-accessible seating at all price levels.

The stadium has:

• Accessible parking in Lots A and B (closest to the gates)
• Wheelchair help from the entrance to your seat
• Elevators to every level
• ADA-compliant restrooms throughout

If you have hearing impairments, you can ask for assistive listening devices at Guest Relations behind home plate. They’ll provide sign language interpreters if you give them a week’s notice.

Service animals are welcome, and there’s a relief area near Gate 4.

If you or someone in your group has sensory sensitivities, you can borrow sensory kits (noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools) from Guest Relations for free.

Getting to Rate Field

Getting to Rate Field is pretty straightforward, whether you take public transit or drive. You’ve got options for both.

Public Transportation Routes

The CTA Red Line drops you right at Sox-35th Street, just steps from the main entrance. Trains run often from the Loop and connect to other CTA lines.

Metra Rail’s Rock Island Line also serves the stadium. Just hop off at the 35th Street/”Lou” Jones station—it’s a short walk from there.

CTA buses #35 (35th Street) and #39 (Pershing Road) both stop nearby, and they usually add more buses on game days.

If you’re staying downtown, you’ll get to Rate Field in about 15–20 minutes on the Red Line.

Driving Directions and Parking

Driving is simple enough. From downtown, take I-90/94 (Dan Ryan Expressway) and exit at 35th Street—the stadium will pop up on your right.

You’ll find several parking lots around the ballpark. Lots A, B, C, and G are closest to the gates. Parking usually opens 2 hours before game time.

Lot A, just north of the stadium, is the most convenient but fills up fast. Expect to pay $20–$25 for standard parking.

Buy your parking pass online ahead of time if you can—it’s usually cheaper and saves time. Accessible parking is available in Lot A for those with the right permits.

If you’re using Uber or Lyft, they’ll drop you off and pick you up at Gate 4 on the west side.

Where to Stay Nearby

Staying near Rate Field makes it easy to catch White Sox games and explore Chicago. There are plenty of hotel options close to the stadium for every budget.

Hotels Close to Rate Field

The Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place sits just minutes from the ballpark. The suites are spacious and come with kitchenettes—great for families or longer stays.

SpringHill Suites Chicago Chinatown is within walking distance of Rate Field. You’ll also be close to Chinatown’s food scene, which is a bonus.

The Hampton Inn is another solid pick near the ballpark. It’s clean, includes free breakfast, and the commute to the stadium is a breeze for baseball fans.

Lodging for Different Budgets

If you’re looking for luxury, the historic Palmer House Hilton in the Loop is a classic pick. It’s not right next to the stadium, but you’ll get there in about 10 minutes by car or hopping on the train.

Mid-range travelers might like the FairBridge Inn Express. It’s comfortable and affordable, and you can cancel for free if your plans change—which, honestly, is a lifesaver sometimes.

If you’re on a budget, you can find hotels within 1.5 miles of Rate Field that won’t empty your wallet. Some even run gameday shuttles or sit right by public transit, so getting to the stadium is a breeze.

Dining and Concessions at Guaranteed Rate Field

Guaranteed Rate Field goes way beyond standard ballpark food. It’s packed with options that range from Chicago classics to some pretty creative new bites. You won’t leave hungry while you’re watching the Sox.

Popular Concession Stands

You’ll find some top-notch concession stands all around the concourse. Comiskey Dogs (Sections 114 and 152) does classic hot dogs loaded with all the toppings. If you want more variety, the Classics stands (sections 102, 112, 130, 152, 160, 510, and 555) are your go-to. They even have gluten-free buns if you ask.

The Grill Stands at sections 122, 140, and 544 serve up juicy burgers, and they’ve got gluten-free buns, too. If you’re craving something sweet, the Campfire Milkshake is a decadent treat that’s hard to pass up.

Buenos Nachos piles on the toppings for loaded nachos—great for sharing or just tackling solo if you’re feeling ambitious.

Local Chicago Food Specialties

Chicago’s food scene really shines at the ballpark. Buona Beef brings legit Italian beef sandwiches right to the stadium. Thin-sliced beef, fresh bread, giardiniera—honestly, it’s a must.

35th St. Tacos dishes out flavorful Mexican food with fresh ingredients, not just your standard stadium stuff. The Gran Elotes-Hot Tamales-Churros stand is a one-stop shop for Mexican street food favorites.

And if you’re at a summer game, you really shouldn’t skip Rainbow Cone. Five flavors stacked in one cone—classic Chicago.

Nearby Restaurants and Bars

There’s plenty to eat and drink just outside the stadium, too. The Gibsons Restaurant Group runs spots nearby that are perfect for a pre-game meetup. Grab a ChiSox Mule if you want to try a local cocktail.

Cork & Kerry at the Park sits right across from the field and nails that neighborhood bar vibe, with a solid beer list and good pub food.

Ricobene’s on 26th Street is kind of legendary for its breaded steak sandwich—some folks say it’s one of the best sandwiches in America. It’s a short walk and totally worth it.

Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar is quirky but fun, mixing a liquor store with a cozy tavern. You’ll find craft beers and cocktails in a chill setting, not far from the ballpark.

Notable Attractions Near Rate Field

Chicago’s south side puts some world-class attractions just a quick trip from Guaranteed Rate Field. If you’re looking for something to do before or after the game, there’s a lot to choose from.

Field Museum

The Field Museum is one of the top natural history museums in the country, about 4 miles north of the ballpark. It’s packed with more than 40 million specimens and artifacts.

You’ll see Sue—the most complete T-Rex skeleton ever found—right in the main hall. This 67-million-year-old fossil is a massive draw for visitors.

The Ancient Egypt exhibit lets you walk through a tomb and see real mummies. The Underground Adventure shrinks you down to explore the world beneath your feet, which is actually more fun than it sounds.

The Native American galleries showcase one of the most extensive collections in the U.S. If you want to see everything, you’ll need at least a few hours.

Shedd Aquarium

Right on Lake Michigan, the Shedd Aquarium houses over 32,000 aquatic animals. It opened back in 1930 and still ranks among the world’s largest indoor aquariums.

The Caribbean Reef has a 90,000-gallon tank where divers feed turtles and sharks. You can touch stingrays at the Stingray Touch pool (if it’s open), or watch sea otters do their thing.

The Oceanarium is a highlight, with beluga whales and dolphins swimming past floor-to-ceiling windows. The Wild Reef brings a slice of the Philippines to Chicago, with more than 500 species, including blacktip reef sharks.

It’s smart to buy timed tickets online, especially during busy seasons. You’ll skip some of the longer lines that way.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier juts 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan and attracts close to 9 million people each year. It’s about 5 miles from Rate Field.

The 200-foot Centennial Wheel gives you killer views of the skyline and lake—try it at sunset if you can. Chicago Shakespeare Theater puts on great shows, and the Crystal Gardens is a lush indoor spot with palm trees and fountains.

You can hop on a sightseeing or dinner cruise from the pier, which is a cool way to see the city from the water. In summer, fireworks light up the sky twice a week.

Food-wise, you’ll find everything from Chicago dogs to fancy dining at Offshore, which Guinness calls the biggest rooftop bar in America.

Other Chicago Highlights

While you’re in town for a game, don’t miss out on Chicago’s other iconic spots. The city’s got some jaw-dropping views, amazing architecture, and plenty to do by the water.

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

A thousand feet above the Magnificent Mile, 360 CHICAGO sits in the old John Hancock Center and gives you panoramic views you won’t forget. Floor-to-ceiling windows mean you can see for miles.

Feeling brave? Try TILT, which leans you out over Michigan Avenue. It’s a little unnerving but totally safe.

Interactive displays tell Chicago’s architectural story, and the café is a nice spot to grab a drink while you soak in the views.

Sunset is probably the best time to go—the city lights start to come on, and it’s just gorgeous. Plan for about an hour or two, depending on crowds.

Skydeck Experience

At 1,353 feet, the Skydeck Chicago in Willis Tower (yeah, it’ll always be Sears Tower to some of us) gives you another epic view. The Ledge is the big draw—glass balconies that stick out from the building, so you’re literally standing over the city.

Stepping onto The Ledge is a thrill, and you’ll get some great photos. Downstairs, interactive exhibits walk you through Chicago’s history before you head up.

Mornings usually mean shorter lines, but the city lights at night are hard to beat. Buying tickets ahead of time is a good call, especially if you hate waiting.

Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile runs along North Michigan Avenue from the river up to Oak Street. It’s a shopper’s paradise, with over 460 stores—everything from high-end boutiques to big-name chains.

But it’s not just about shopping. The Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower are architectural stunners. Tribune Tower even has pieces of famous buildings from around the world embedded in its walls.

You’ll find plenty of places to eat, from quick bites to fancy meals. Purple Pig is great for Mediterranean small plates, and Bandera serves up American fare with a view.

Street performers keep things lively, and if the weather turns, Water Tower Place offers indoor shopping.

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk follows the south bank of the river through downtown. It’s a 1.25-mile stretch with different sections, each with its own vibe.

Rent a kayak or jump on an architectural boat tour—seeing the city from the water is a must. Guides explain how Chicago reversed the river’s flow back in 1900, which is still pretty wild.

Restaurants and bars with outdoor seating line the path. City Winery pours wine with river views, and Island Party Hut brings a bit of the tropics to the city.

Public art pops up all along the Riverwalk. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza and other sculptures give you a glimpse into Chicago’s history.

Lake Michigan Activities

Chicago’s 26 miles of lakefront are packed with things to do. North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach are perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun in summer.

The Lakefront Trail runs 18 miles, ideal for biking, running, or strolling with awesome views. Rent a bike at a Divvy station and cruise as far as you want.

For more adventure, try renting a sailboat at Belmont Harbor or take paddleboard lessons at Montrose Beach. Sunset cruises give you a killer view of the skyline from the water.

Navy Pier stretches into the lake and has everything—restaurants, shops, carnival rides, and that giant Ferris wheel. You can also catch sightseeing boats or water taxis here.

Northerly Island, a 91-acre peninsula, is great for hiking and birdwatching if you want a break from the city buzz.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

If you’re heading to Guaranteed Rate Field, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy the game and the ballpark experience.

Safety Guidelines

Stay aware of your surroundings at Guaranteed Rate Field and in the neighborhood. The area can feel quiet on non-game days, so arriving with friends is usually safer than going solo.

Keep your tickets and valuables close. Digital tickets are super convenient, but your phone battery might drain fast—bring a backup charger just in case.

Check where the stadium exits are before the game starts. It’ll save you time when everyone’s leaving at once.

You’ll go through metal detectors and bag checks at the gate. Bags must be smaller than 16″ x 16″ x 8″ to get in.

If you’re with kids, tuck a card with your phone number in their pocket—just in case you get separated.

Packing Essentials

Bring these to stay comfortable at the game:

• Sunscreen (even on cloudy days)
• Hat or cap
• Light jacket or sweatshirt—nights can get chilly
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Cash for vendors who don’t take cards
• Empty water bottle (you can fill it inside)
• Small binoculars if you’re up in the nosebleeds

Don’t balk at bringing ponchos or rain gear, even if the weather looks fine. Chicago weather can flip fast.

A seat cushion helps with comfort, especially in the upper sections where seats are harder.

Skip bringing outside food, big bags, or pro cameras with detachable lenses—they won’t let those in.

Souvenirs and Shopping

Rate Field has a bunch of souvenir shops, each with its own vibe and selection. The main team store sits by Gate 5—it’s got the most stuff, but, honestly, that’s where everyone else goes, too.

Purchase tickets in the 100 level if you want easier access to the best shopping spots. Most of the specialty shops are down there, and walking around just feels nicer compared to the upper levels.

Some White Sox souvenirs people usually go for:

• Game-day programs (always fun to keep)
• Team jerseys and caps
• Mini baseball bats
• Chicago-themed White Sox gear

Try to shop before the game kicks off if you can. The stores fill up fast—especially during the 7th inning stretch or right after the final out.

If you’re into autographs, check out “Sox Signatures.” They’ve got signed memorabilia with certificates, but, yeah, you’ll pay more for those.

Final Thoughts on Your Rate Field Adventure

If you haven’t been to Guaranteed Rate Field, you’re missing out on a baseball experience that doesn’t get nearly enough love in Chicago. Sure, Wrigley Field usually steals the spotlight (here’s why), but the South Side’s stadium brings its own kind of charm—and honestly, a few perks you might not expect.

Tickets usually cost way less than at most other MLB parks. That makes it a solid pick if you’re bringing the whole family or just want to catch a game without breaking the bank.

You should definitely check out the Craft Lodge in right field early on. Standing right behind the visitor’s bullpen at field level feels surprisingly up-close—kind of rare for a big-league stadium.

Transportation Tips:

• The stadium has over 7,000 parking spots
• On busy game days, public transit might save you some hassle
• Rideshare drop-offs work well if you’re staying downtown

Best Stadium Features:

• You get pretty clean sightlines from almost every seat
• Food options go beyond the usual ballpark stuff (finally!)
• The concourses don’t feel jammed like at some other parks

Definitely check the weather before you head out. Chicago’s wind can catch you off guard, and even summer nights sometimes feel colder than you’d think.

If you want to make the most of your visit, get there early and wander a bit. The White Sox history displays give you a cool look at the team’s story—even if you’re just a casual fan.