WRIGLEYVILLE STARS

Baseball is more than just entertainment in Chicago - it's a way of life. Situated in the middle of a north-side neighborhood is legendary Wrigley Field, the second-oldest Major League Baseball park in the country. This mecca for baseball lovers is also home to some seriously die-hard Chicago Cubs fans who reside on the surrounding streets of Wrigleyville.

The neighborhood comes alive on game day and gives off an absolutely contagious energy - a fever pitch - to which no one is immune. For hours before and after the game, the streets, particularly Clark Street, are teeming with baseball fans filling up on food, drinks and festivities at the dozens of bars within walking distance of the stadium. So make sure you explore this iconic Chicago neighborhood.

Very few venues in the world of professional sports offer the incredible experience of Wrigley Field. Once inside the park, you'll be greeted by a stunning space adorned with ivy-covered brick walls and a historic scoreboard that's still updated by hand. And there's nothing like the crunch of peanut shells under your shoes, the taste of a Vienna beef hot dog and the echoes of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" sung during the seventh-inning stretch. The legacy of Cubs announcer Harry Caray is now honored with a celebrity performance of the song.

The time-honored tradition of attending a Cubs game is something to be cherished. Fans of all ages fill the stadium. If it's a child's first game at "The Friendly Confines," a trip to Customer Relations will land you a certificate to mark the occasion. If it's your thousandth game, there is undoubtedly still something spectacular in store for you.

For the ultimate Cubs game experience, grab a spot in the bleachers. This lively section offers amazing views of the stadium and gives you the chance to soak up the sun while following the game. Get there early, though-seats are unassigned.

There are also several buildings surrounding Wrigley Field that have created special rooftops for your viewing pleasure. These establishments are managed by private companies, such as Wrigleyville Rooftops, and have bleacher seating with great views. Group and individual tickets are available and usually include food and drinks.

Every part of game day is layered in tradition. Make sure to walk around the outside of the stadium for statues of some of the great players in Cubs history, including Ernie Banks, Billy Williams and Ron Santo. And if you're lucky, you might get a chance to take a picture with Banks or Williams in person. They're known to be at many home games.