Chicago Bears Tailgating

Overnight parking is not permitted at the tailgating party. All vehicles must leave the parking lot by two hours after the game. Camping is available near the city, and you have your choice of private or state-owned campgrounds. Gather the family for a pre-trip planning meeting and discuss everyone’s RV camping suggestions.

Your choice of campground may depend on what time of year you plan to attend a Chicago Bears Tailgate event. Many campgrounds in the area close for the season as fall progresses. Rock Cut State Park is open during the winter and does offer electricity at its sites. Water and a dump station are not available, so plan for that as you prep your motorhome for the trip. If you are a fan of ice fishing, while in the area check out William W. Powers State Recreation Area to try your hand this unique activity.

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for climbing stairs and maneuvering through crowds. The use of an elevator is a possibility, but the stands and stairs to the seating will be busy. An usher escort can transport via wheelchair those who need it (although wheelchairs are limited). However, you cannot keep the wheelchair throughout the game. If you are in your own wheelchair, arrange for accessible and companion seating for the game.

Gameday wardrobes will vary depending on whether you are attending a game late summer, fall, or winter. For events later in the season, layering is key to comfort. Cozy footwear and foot warmers (and even hand warmers) are essential for cold-season games. Bring rain gear, too, as a rainy or snowy day may occur. Remember, you are on the waterfront of this windy city. It’s best to be over-prepared, rather than cold.

Bring your clear plastic carry bag into the stadium. Items like fanny packs, backpacks, purses, and diaper bags are not allowed. Each family member can bring a bag, so include snacks for the kids. Beverages must be purchased inside the stadium. For the campervan, bring a flashlight, small radio, toiletries, and games for the kids.

If you are camping in the colder months, ensure that the kids stay warm and wear gloves to protect their hands from the cold. Have extra food on hand in case stormy weather moves in and prevents you from going anywhere. Keep your fuel stores at maximum and consider a generator to guarantee a heated Airstream on a crisp night.

Cooking is what it’s all about at a Chicago Bears Tailgating event. Propane tanks less than 19 pounds only are permitted on campus grounds. Cook up a batch of gameday hotdogs and a pot of chili. If you are barbequing, prep pans of ribs and wings for the ultimate pre-action meal. No deep fryers, though. Keep your tailgate section clean and free of garbage, taking care to dispose of foodstuffs properly.

Chicago has the food scene down to a science. Bears fans have their pick of restaurants as they walk to and from the game. Visit a myriad of neighborhoods for pizza, poutine, and pastrami. Or, base your tastes on world flavors like Indian curry, matzo ball, soup, or Meditteranean Biryani. The choice is yours to enjoy.

If you took public transit to the game and don’t have your vehicle there in a tailgate parking lot, you can still experience the fun by attending the Chicago Bears pre-game event, held two hours before. It is complimentary and features Bears alumni, music, and giveaways. You can purchase food and drinks. The Miller Lite Ultimate Tailgate is located on the Stadium Green.