Sport is a religion in Chicago!

Published on October 24, 2023 at 3:59 pm

During your trip to Chicago, come and discover the sporting fervour of its inhabitants. Illinois' largest city boasts a record number of world-class sports teams. Nothing is more immersive and festive than watching a game of basketball, baseball, ice hockey or American football. In the company of locals and other visitors, you'll be able to take part in the fervour and madness that ignite sporting competitions.

In fact, it's not sport and Chicago that should be written about. It's sport and the United States! Clearly sport is an essential foundation of the country. From school onwards, the youngest children take part in the sport of their choice. Every town has its own sports club and federation. American universities, including the University of Chicago, award scholarships to the most seasoned sportsmen and women.

Soldier Field soccer stadium in Chicago

Summary

Sport and Chicago, a long history
Follow in the footsteps of your sporting heroes and watch some great matches
Where can sports fans stay in Chicago?
Practical information

Sport and Chicago, a long history

Chicago, the country's third-largest city, is of course a clear example of the bond that unites its inhabitants with their city. There is a real passion for sport.

The city is home to some legendary sports clubs. Take the local basketball club, the Chicago Bulls, or the American football club, the Chicago Bears- these famous names are known the world over. And Chicago is where you'll find them!

A match is an experience in itself, and one that you should experience at least once. The atmosphere, the music and the dancing are everywhere. The cheerleaders provide the show at half-time, accompanied by thunderous music.

Michael Jordan statue in front of the United Center gym in Chicago

Follow in the footsteps of your sporting heroes and watch some great matches

In front of the Chicago Bulls gymnasium, you can see the statue of American basketball superstar Michael Jordan in full jump! If you want to see a Chicago Bulls basketball match in Chicago, the United Center is the place to go. This sporting temple is the place to go to watch an incredible game by one of the most famous basketball teams in the world!

For baseball fans, there are two teams supporting the city's colours. The Cubs for the north of the city, the White Sox for the south of Chicago. The two main baseball stadiums are Wrigley Field and Sloan Park.

Chicago Cubs club name on stadium

For fans of American football, the home team is the Chicago Bears. The Soldier Field stadium, with a capacity of 61,000 spectators, is remarkable for its completely redesigned architecture. Built in 1924, it was completely renovated in 2003.

Where can sports fans stay in Chicago?

The Chicago Athletic Association hotel (part of Hyatt), will delight sports fans! The hotel gives the impression of being in an athletics club from the early 20th century.

The decoration is carried through to the smallest detail. The rooms are decorated in an athletic style. Even the brass light fittings and some vintage athletic equipment add that sporting touch to the rooms. There is a rooftop bar and a restaurant at the foot of the hotel.

As an added bonus, you can make use of a modern fitness room with state-of-the-art equipment, a bike hire service and even a petanque court!

Booking.com

Chicago Athletic Association, part of Hyatt

One of the hotel's rooms, with its fireplace and vintage decor.

8.5 Very good

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Practical information

👉 When should you go to Chicago to watch matches?

Every season has its own league, so depending on your favourite sport, check the match dates on the various club websites.

In basketball, the NBA season runs from October to April (longer if the team qualifies for the final games).

The American football season runs from September to January.

If your dream is to attend an ice hockey match, head for Chicago from October to April.

Finally for baseball if you want to attend a game it's between April and October.

🏈 How do I book these matches in Chicago?

The best way is to book via specialist websites. Otherwise, go to the city's tourist office for information.

Where can I park and how can I get to the matches in Chicago?

The stadiums and sports halls have their own underground car parks. The rates charged are often exorbitant. So if you can, use public transport. During matches, bus and metro services are more frequent and timetables are longer.

There are preferential fares for getting around the city. The Chicago Transit Authority coordinates the bus and metro networks.

by Editorial Team

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