Beyond Wrigley Field: Exploring Chicago’s North Side with The Chicago Hotel Collection

There’s nothing like catching a game at Wrigley Field—the crowd, the history, the crack of the bat echoing through the neighborhood—but there’s so much more to Chicago’s North Side than the ivy-covered walls. Whether you're in town for baseball season, a weekend getaway, or just want to explore the city like a local, staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley puts you at the heart of one of the most vibrant and walkable areas in the city.

Start with Wrigley—Then Keep Going

Yes, Wrigleyville is iconic. The neighborhood pulses with energy on game day, with fans crowding into bars like Murphy’s Bleachers and HVAC Pub. Even if you're not holding a ticket, the buzz outside the stadium is an experience in itself. Gallagher Way, the park adjacent to the ballpark, hosts everything from outdoor movie nights to farmer’s markets to yoga in the summer—giving visitors something to enjoy beyond the scoreboard.

But after the seventh-inning stretch, you’ll want to stick around. The real charm of the North Side begins once you venture off Clark Street.

Lakeview Eats and Local Hangouts

Hungry? You don’t have to go far. Clark Street in Wrigleyville is packed with local favorites that hit the spot before or after a game. Grab tacos and margaritas at Big Star Wrigleyville, chow down on wings at Old Crow Smokehouse, or hit up Smoke Daddy for BBQ and live music. If pizza’s calling your name, Dimo’s Pizza serves up creative slices late into the night—perfect after a few drinks.

When the sun goes down, the block comes alive. Kick things off with rooftop views and cocktails at Deuce’s Major League Bar or HVAC Pub, both steps from the stadium. Prefer something more laid-back? Gman Tavern offers a low-key vibe and local beer. And if you're out late, Sluggers is a classic—with batting cages, arcade games, and a lively crowd that keeps the night going strong.

Whether you're celebrating a Cubs win or just soaking in the city, Clark Street delivers the energy.

Southport Corridor: Shopping, Cafes, and Charm

Just a 10-minute walk from the hotel, the Southport Corridor offers a quieter slice of North Side life. Tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, and indie bookstores set the scene for a leisurely afternoon. Stop into Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for a scoop, browse the shelves at RoscoeBooks, or pop into Free People, Anthropologie, or local shops like Dearborn Denim.

Southport is also a great spot for families or couples who want to explore the city without the chaos. It’s calmer than the stadium scene, but just as quintessentially Chicago.

Lincoln Park & the Lakefront Trail

Want to stretch your legs? Head east and you’ll hit Lincoln Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces. From there, it’s a short walk to Belmont Harbor and the Lakefront Trail, a scenic 18-mile path that hugs Lake Michigan from the North Side all the way down to South Shore.

Take a bike ride along the lake, rent a paddleboard, or just stroll and people-watch. On sunny days, the lakeshore feels like a beach town dropped right into the city. Grab a coffee from Brew Brew or Cafe Tola on your way.

Music, Theater, and Culture Close By

If live entertainment is your thing, you’re in the right place. Metro Chicago regularly hosts big-name and indie artists just around the corner. Prefer something more lowkey? The Music Box Theatre on Southport screens independent films and cult classics in a historic 1920s movie palace.

You can also catch performances at Stage 773 or The Athenaeum Center, both offering local theater productions, improv shows, and more. Whether you’re looking for laughs, drama, or live music, the Wrigley area delivers well beyond game day.

A Neighborhood That Feels Like Home

What makes this part of the city stand out isn’t just its attractions—it’s the neighborhood feel. Locals walk their dogs, shop small, and know their bartenders. It’s urban but cozy, bustling but friendly. And staying in the heart of it all means you’re not just visiting Chicago—you’re living it.

When you stay at The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley, you’re more than a block away from the crowd—you’re part of the community. With loft-style rooms, group-friendly options, and flexible spaces, the hotel is ideal for families, friends, and solo travelers alike. Plus, you're within walking distance of everything mentioned above.

Book Direct, Stay Local, and Save

Want to unlock even more during your stay? When you book directly through our website, you’ll gain access to our exclusive Guest Benefits Package, which includes immediate perks like:

• A $25 Restaurant.com e-gift card per room, per night (redeemable at thousands of dining spots)

• Travel discounts available even after you check out

• Access to discounts for local Chicago attractions and tours

Whether you're catching a Cubs game, sipping cocktails on a rooftop, strolling through Lincoln Park, or discovering your new favorite brunch spot, let The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley be your North Side home base.

Book Direct and Save Today. Experience the best of Chicago—beyond the ballpark.