It’s no secret that Chicago is a true sports town. The city is home to legendary teams with deep histories, unique traditions, and unrivaled fan bases.
Your guide to Chicago sports
Sports fans from around the globe make the pilgrimage to the heart of the Midwest to fill our stadiums, cheer on some of the world’s best athletes, and take part in sporting events like no other.
Learn more about our teams, discover unique fan experiences, and come experience the electric energy of Chicago’s sports scene for yourself.
Chicago sports teams
Chicago Fire soccer
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, so no sports city would be compete without a pro soccer club. The Chicago Fire FC, named for the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, won the MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup in their first season, as well as the U.S. Open Cups in 2000, 2003, and 2006. They’re known for their wildly enthusiastic fans, who will have you standing and cheering right alongside them at lakefront Soldier Field.
Chicago Stars soccer
A founding member of the Women’s Professional Soccer league, the Chicago Stars FC bring a fresh energy to the lakefront Martin Stadium on the Northwestern University campus in Evanston. The team is known for their welcoming and inclusive fan base, which leads the stadium in chants and songs and hosts tailgates and watch parties.
Chicago Bears football
As a founding franchise of the National Football League (NFL), the Chicago Bears have been a hometown favorite for almost a century. They play at Chicago’s Soldier Field, a lakefront stadium with a game day experience like no other. Make sure to tailgate before kick-off in the Soldier Field parking lot — a home game ritual for superfans.
Chicago Cubs baseball
In the heart of the Lakeview neighborhood sits the second-oldest ballpark in America — Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. In 2016, the Cubs won the World Series and ended a century-long drought (and breaking a so-called curse, according to local legend).
While the historic charm remains, modern amenities have take the ballpark experience to the next level. Make sure to spend some time exploring the bars, restaurants, and general charm of the surrounding Wrigleyville area.
Chicago White Sox baseball
Chicago’s South Side is home to one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball and winner of the 2005 World Series — the Chicago White Sox. The home of the Sox, Rate Field, sits just south of the Loop in the Bridgeport neighborhood, where local standbys offer great eats and cheap drinks. Come early to tailgate in the stadium parking lot alongside generations of fans.
Chicago Blackhawks hockey
On the ice since 1926, the Chicago Blackhawks are one of the original six National Hockey League teams. The team is known for establishing a modern-day dynasty by winning three championships in six seasons between 2010 and 2015. The Blackhawks play at the city’s United Center, the country’s largest indoor arena that’s also home to the Chicago Bulls.
Chicago Bulls basketball
The Chicago Bulls are one of the National Basketball Association’s most iconic teams. The Bulls are known worldwide for their incredible run of six championship wins between 1991 and 1998, led by the legendary Michael Jordan. Today, the Bulls still bring an electric energy to the United Center court during every home game. Make sure to snap a photo with the Michael Jordan statue in the arena lobby.
Chicago Sky basketball
If you’re looking for more basketball, you have to check out the Chicago Sky. The city’s WNBA team plays at the Wintrust Arena in the South Loop, packing the house with fired-up spectators during each home game. The team is famous for their long-running hot streaks, like their four playoff appearances in four years and their 2021 WNBA championship win.
More Chicago-area sports teams
- Chicago Wolves (American Hockey League) at the Allstate Arena in Chicago
- Chicago Hounds (Major League Rugby) at Seatgeek Stadium in Bridgeview
- Chicago Dogs (American Association of Professional Baseball) at Impact Field in Rosemont
- Chicago Union (Ultimate Frisbee Association) at ETHS Lazier Field in Evanston
- Chicago Snowballs (co-ed sportstainment baseball) at various locations
Chicago sports events
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Each October, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon draws more than 50,000 athletes from around the planet to the streets of Chicago to compete in one of seven World Major Marathons. Race day in Chicago is a one-of-a-kind experience, whether you’re a veteran runner, a first-time marathoner, or a spectator cheering them on.
AVP League Championships
The Association of Volleyball Professionals hosts its iconic annual tournament on the stunning Chicago lakefront each summer. Watch the world’s top beach volleyball pros battle it out in a high‑energy atmosphere right on Oak Street Beach.
More sports events in Chicago
Every year brings an exciting new lineup of sporting events in Chicago. The city has hosted a long roster of landmark events, including the NFL draft, the first-ever NASCAR Street Race, the NCAA March Madness tournament, the Premier League Summer Series, the WNBA All-Star Game, and so much more. Check out top sports events coming to Chicago this year.
Chicago sports experiences: stadium tours and more
Chicago Sports Museum
Step inside the world of Chicago sports at the Chicago Sports Museum. Fans of all ages can explore interactive exhibits and unique sports artifacts and memorabilia — test your vertical leap against Michael Jordan, compare your wingspan to Scottie Pippen, and try on the largest Super Bowl ring ever made.
Wrigley Field tours
Wrigley Field tours are the ultimate Chicago experience for any baseball fan. The second oldest stadium in the league, Wrigley Field is packed with historic details like the hand-operated scoreboard and the outfield ivy. Hear the stories behind the legendary ballpark and get an insider’s look at the seating bowl, bleachers, the field, and beyond.
Soldier Field tours
If you’re a football fan, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour of Soldier Field and learn about the historic arena that serves as the home to the Chicago Bears (NFL) and Chicago Fire FC (MLS) teams. Tours include the visitor locker room and interview room, the skyline suite, colonnades, and the field.
Sports Illustrated Resorts Chicago
The new Sports Illustrated Resorts in Chicago blends the city’s legendary sports culture with immersive hospitality. Guests will appreciate the sports-themed design elements and variety of modern rooms and suites, making it a perfect haven for a pregame or postgame stay.
Sports activities in Chicago
Millennium Park Summer Workout Series
Start your Saturday on the Great Lawn with free fitness classes like yoga, Pilates, and cardio kickboxing — all surrounded by skyline views. Bring a mat and soak in the Chicago summer vibes during the annual Millennium Park Summer Workout Series from May through September.
Public golf courses
Tee up across the city with Chicago Park District golf courses. Enjoy affordable rounds, convenient locations, and stunning views of the lakefront and surrounding green space. Choose from eight unique golf courses located throughout the city, including Lincoln Park, Jackson Park, Columbus Park, South Shore, and more.
Ping pong and tabletop sports
Rally your crew for a friendly (or competitive) game of ping pong, shuffleboard, and more. Order a round, claim a table, and turn game night into a new tradition.
- AceBounce: High‑energy ping pong meets craft cocktails and shareable bites at this downtown hotspot.
- SPIN Chicago: Grab a paddle and explore this ping pong playground with DJs, leagues, and plenty of space for big groups just off Michigan Avenue.
- Electric Shuffle Chicago: Experience tech‑powered shuffleboard, featuring team‑based games, automatic scoring, instant replays, and more.
