A Guide to Rate Field
Rate Field, located on the South Side of Chicago, has been the home of the Chicago White Sox since 1991. While it often sits in the shadow of Wrigley Field's ivy, it offers a classic baseball experience with a deep connection to South Side culture.
Getting to the Ballpark
Driving & Parking
The stadium is bordered by I-90/94 (Dan Ryan Expressway). Use the 31st or 35th Street exits. For standard parking, Red Lots (A, C, G) are north of the stadium and Green Lots (F, L) are south. Lot B (Yellow) is the premium lot located closest to Gate 5. Pre-purchased parking is available through ParkWhiz, the White Sox official parking partner.
- Public TransitRate Field is easily accessible, situated directly off the Dan Ryan Expressway and multiple transit lines.
- Red LineThe most popular method. Take the L to the Sox-35th station. It drops you off just steps from the stadium gates. Transfers from the Orange Line can be made at the Roosevelt Station. Transfers from most of the rest of the system occur at State Street in the Loop
- Green LineExit at the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT station. It is a short, three-block walk west to the stadium.
- CTA Bus Routes
- #35 (35th Street)Runs east-west and stops directly at the ballpark.
- #24 (Wentworth)Provides service near the stadium on game days.
- #29 (State Street)Drops off just east of the stadium at 35th and State.
- #44 (Wallace-Racine)Good for fans coming from the southwest/Bridgeport area.
- Metra Commuter RailThe Rock Island District line stops at the 35th St. / Lou Jones Station, located right next to the Red Line station. This is ideal for fans coming from the South Suburbs or LaSalle Street Station downtown.
- TailgatingOne of the few MLB stadiums where tailgating is a primary tradition. Tailgating is permitted in all A-E Lots. Lots open two hours before game time (subject to change for special events). Charcoal grills are allowed, but kegs are not. Reserved tailgating spots can be purchased in Lot E which includes a larger, dedicated tailgate space.
- RideshareThe designated rideshare pickup/dropoff zone is located at Lot A, northeast of the stadium.
Pregame Festivities
The stadium sits in the Armour Square neighborhood, between the Illinois Institute of Technology and Bridgeport, a historic, working-class enclave known for being the home of five Chicago mayors. The vibe is unpretentious, authentic, and deeply rooted in South Side history. The stadium itself is relatively isolated with its footprint between the highway and railyard cutting it off from much of the rest of the neighborhood.
Bars & Restaurants
Because the neighborhood bars are separated from the stadium by large parking lots, tailgating is the primary pregame activity. It is common to see grills and tents in the parking tots starting two hours before first pitch.
- Located at Gate 5 of the stadium. It's a high-energy multi-level bar with standard pub fare and a large patio. There is a walkway that leads directly into the stadium.
- A classic Irish pub just across from the stadium on Princeton Ave. It's the quintessential Sox fan hangout.
- A local favorite for burgers and beer, located a short walk from the gates.
- A legendary slashie (liquor store + bar) offering craft beers and a trendy atmosphere.
- Famous for their Breaded Steak Sandwich, which USA Today once called the best sandwich in the world. It is a must-visit for any Chicago food tour.
- A legendary walk-up window serving classic Chicago dogs and fries with a view of the stadium.
- A bit further west in Bridgeport, this funky brewery offers some of the most creative craft beers and snacks in the city.
- Famous for its 24-hour pork chop sandwiches and Depot Dogs. A true South Side staple.
- An old-school Irish pub that has been in the same family since the 1930s. Pure Chicago history.
- A Bridgeport outpost of the popular taco joint, offering a great outdoor patio and margaritas.
- A high-capacity spot on Halsted for wings and beer.
- A bit of a hidden gem further west, known for some of the best steak tacos in the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Attractions
- Directly adjacent to the stadium, this historic park offers a fieldhouse and green space. It's a quiet contrast to the stadium's energy and serves as a local gathering point.
- Located just east of the stadium, the campus is a global landmark for modernist architecture.
- Designed by Rem Koolhaas, this building features a massive corrugated steel tube that muffles the sound of the L trains passing overhead.
- A masterpiece by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, often cited as one of the most important buildings of the 20th century.
Arts & Culture
- Housed in the historic 500,000 sq. ft. Spiegel warehouse, this is a creative hub for over 120 artists. It features the Skyline Loft, rotating galleries, and the Chicago Ceramic Center.
- Located on the river level of the Bridgeport Art Center, it details the developing story of Chicago’s waterways, from fur traders to modern Great Lakes frigates.
- Founded by the world renowned Zhou Brothers, this 28,000 sq. ft. space hosts local and international contemporary art. Their Third Friday open studio events are legendary.
- A unique gem showcasing Asian art forms across centuries, including jades, Neolithic pottery, and imperial porcelains.
Monuments & Unique Features
- Old Comiskey Home PlateAcross 35th Street in Lot B, you can find a plaque marking the exact location of home plate from the original Comiskey Park (1910–1990).
- Champions Monument PlazaLocated near Gate 4 (Home Plate entrance), this granite monument commemorates the 2005 World Series victory.
- Statues (Centerfield Plaza)Bronze statues of White Sox legends are on either side of the The Fan Deck area on the main level. Represented are Charles Comiskey, Minnie Minoso, Carlton Fisk, Billy Pierce, Harold Baines, Luis Aparicio, Nellie Fox, Frank Thomas and Paul Konerko.
- Retired NumbersThe legendary numbers are prominently displayed on the 300 level façade between the bases. They include
- #2 Nellie Fox
- #3 Harold Baines
- #4 Luke Appling
- #9 Minnie Minoso
- #11 Luis Aparicio
- #14 Paul Konerko
- #16 Ted Lyons
- #19 Billy Pierce
- #35 Frank Thomas
- #56 Mark Buehrle
- #72 Carlton Fisk
- #42 Jackie RobinsonLeague Wide.
- Banners & PennantsThe 1906, 1917, and 2005 World Series championship banners, along with American League pennants are displayed on the facade of the Kids Zone in left field.
- The Exploding ScoreboardA tribute to the original 1960 Bill Veeck creation. When a Sox player hits a home run, the pinwheels on top spin and launch fireworks.
- The Old PinwheelsTwo original pinwheels from the 1960 Exploding Scoreboard are preserved at the park. The original Blue Pinwheel is located on the Gate 5 ramp while the Yellow Pinwheel is inside the Leinenkugel Craft Lodge in Right Field.
- The Old Comiskey Park ShowerA working tribute to Veeck, who installed the original shower in Old Comiskey in 1978 for fans to cool down on hot days. The current iteration is located on the 100-level concourse near Section 161.
- The Blue ChairsIn 2007 the White Sox upgraded the seats in the stadium, changing them from blue to green in the process. However, they left two blue seats to commemorate iconic home runs from the 2005 World Series. Section 159 in left marks the landing spot of Paul Konerko's grand slam while Section 101 in right center marks Scott Scott Podsednik's Game 2 walk off homer.
- The Catch TributeThe words The Catch and date (7-23-09) are painted on the top of the outfield wall in left center to commemorate DeWayne Wise's spectacular home run robbing catch that preserved Mark Buehrle's perfect game in 2009.
- Jim Thome PlaqueLocated at the base of the Fan Deck in center field, near the Billy Pierce sculpture. It commemorates the first-ever home run hit onto the Fan Deck (June 4, 2008) and his second one later that year during the "Blackout Game" tiebreaker.
- The Bell of ShameLocated near the CIBC Fan Deck stairs in center field. It is rung loudly by staff whenever a fan is caught putting ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog.
- Photo Op SignsTwo iconic script signs are on the upper concourse with views of the skyline. Southside is on the Gate 3 ramp and Chicago is on the Gate 5 ramp of the 500 level.
Seating & Special Sections
The Upper Deck (500 level) is known for being extremely steep and may be difficult for some people to navigate. Additionally, fans with tickets on this level are generally restricted to it and not allowed access to the field level.
Premium Areas
- Wintrust Scout SeatsThese are the first 11 rows behind home plate and include all-inclusive food and beverage, access to a private lounge and a special entrance to the stadium.
- Rate ClubLocated on the 200-level behind home plate. Features an upscale buffet, open bar, and cushioned outdoor seating.
- Diamond SuitesWrapped around the 200 and 400 levels they generally accommodate 10 or 20 guests. Larger Party Suites are also available for up to 100 people.
- All-Star SuitesPositioned on the 400 Level behind the home plate these are generally more intimate and accommodate up to 22 guests.
- CIBC Fan Box SuiteThe only suite on the 100-level concourse. It is located directly behind the Scout Seats and accommodates 20-30 guests. This is the choice if you want to be close enough to hear the pop of the glove while still having a private, climate-controlled room.
- CHSN Studio SuiteLocated on the 400 level on the left field side for groups of 30-100 this area provides exclusive access to the CHSN pre and post game show as well as an indoor dining area and balcony access.
- Skyline SuiteThis large suite on the left field side of the 300 level accommodates 70-250 people and offers an expanded buffet selection.
- Stadium Club Party SuiteThis suite has a large outfield viewing area from the right field 300 level with multi-level indoor seating. Designed for 100-250 people this suite is perfect for large groups with panoramic views of the whole stadium.
Group & Hospitality
These areas offer a mix of exclusive group seating and social, generally standing room only bar areas open to general admission
- The Warning Track PartyThis is a private, ground-level area located in Right Field, positioned directly behind the actual warning track of the playing field. The outdoor area features round tables and drink rails facing the field while inside is a climate controlled buffet area with a private bar and restrooms.
- Miller Lite LandingLocated in right field (Sections 106–107), this area features a repurposed CTA L car turned into a bar. It has VIP season ticket sections, group seating area and a standing room only section open for general admission.
- Fan DeckSituated atop the center field concession stands, this elevated deck offers a panoramic view of the entire field. It is often rented for groups of about 150 but may be open first come first serve for some games.
- 500-Level View BarsIf you are stuck in the Upper Deck, there are two newer bars located at Sections 516 and 548. These were created by removing several rows of seats to provide open-air drink rails and walk-up service with a great bird's-eye view and can also be rented as group space. Non-exclusive Areas.
Non-exclusive Areas
- The Kid ZoneThis 15,000-square foot multi-level area is located in the left field corner. It features batting cages, a speed pitch station, and a mini-diamond for clinics. It has dedicated stairwells making it accessible from all concourse levels.
- The Rain RoomsInspired by Veeck's shower the stadium features two Rain Rooms (mist stations) to combat summer heat, one near Section 107 and one near Section 537.
Concessions
These are the signature destination foods that represent Chicago's diverse South Side flavors.
Unique and City-Specific Items
- The Elote (Mexican Corn)Sections 122, 142, 161, 526, 544: Shucked corn mixed with butter, mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
- Elote Corn DogSections 140 & 544: A classic corn dog topped with the stadium's signature elote dip (corn, mayo, cheese, and spice).
- 35th Street ReubenSection 109 (The Carvery): A traditional deli-style corned beef Reuben with Swiss, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island on rye.
- Lucky's Korean DogsSection 154 (Marketplace 154): Corn-flake or hash-brown crusted hot dogs with toppings like sambal mayo and Cheeto dust.
- The Cuban CometSection 148 (Cuban Sandwich Kiosk): Named for Minnie Miñoso; smoked ham, pork, Swiss, pickles, and mustard on pressed bread.
- Fuku Fried ChickenSection 110: Habanero-brined spicy chicken sandwiches and tenders by Chef David Chang.
- The Chi-TalianStadium Club Bar and Section 109: Italian deli meats (salami, capicola, ham) with spicy Chicago giardiniera on an Italian roll.
Ballpark Classics
- Classics Stands: These are the most common stands in the park.Sections 102, 112, 126, 130, 152, 160, 510, 520, 538, 555: Menu: Vienna Beef Hot Dogs, Maxwell Street Polish Sausage (with grilled onions), Bratwurst, Nachos, Popcorn, and Peanuts.
- Grill Stands: Focused on griddle favorites and fried sides.Locations: Sections 122, 140, 544: Menu: Comiskey Burger (Double Patty), Cheeseburgers, Impossible Burgers (Plant-Based), Chicken Tenders, and Garlic Fries.
- The Mac ShackSections 122 and 528: Menu: 3-cheese Macaroni with rotating toppings like Chorizo or Hatch Green Chiles.
- Beggars PizzaSections 118, 148, 163, 522, 546: Menu: Deep-dish or thin-crust slices (Cheese, Sausage, Pepperoni).
Desserts
- Campfire MilkshakeA 16oz chocolate shake topped with toasted marshmallows, graham cracker crumbles, and a chocolate bar.
- Celebration Cake ShakeSection 157 (Topo Chico Cantina): Birthday cake ice cream blended with confetti cake and topped with a pinwheel cookie.
- Rainbow ConeSections 158 and 526: The Chicago icon featuring five sliced flavors (Chocolate, Strawberry, Palmer House, Pistachio, and Orange Sherbet).
- Changeup Bubble WaffleSection 154 (Marketplace 154): A fluffy waffle cone filled with vanilla ice cream, black sugar boba, ginger, and mocha syrup.
- Funnel CakeSection 155: Classic powdered sugar or fruit-topped funnel cakes.
- Mini MeltsSections 155, 156, and 538: Flash-frozen ice cream beads in various flavors.
Craft Beer
- Leinenkugel's Craft LodgeSection 107/108: The primary hub with 75+ options.
- Miller Lite LandingSections 105–108: Despite the name, this social area features a Draft Bar with rotating local Chicago taps alongside Miller products.
- Craft Kave ExpressSection 542: The upper-deck satellite of the main Craft Kave; it offers a curated list of ~50 craft cans from various breweries specifically for 500-level fans.
- Revolution Brewing PortablesSections 128 and 144: These branded stands exclusively offer Revolution products, focusing on their flagship Anti-Hero IPA and seasonal Hero series.
- Grab-and-Go BinsMost bins carry Revolution Anti-Hero and Goose Island 312, but specialized craft is usually limited to the Craft Lodge or Express. Cocktails
Cocktails
- Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 BarSection 110: A full-service bar offering premium whiskey cocktails, spirits, and the viral Jack & Coke ice cream float.
- 1800 Tequila BarSection 114 & Fan Deck: Fresh margaritas and palomas.
- Frozen Margarita StandLocated in center field directly underneath the Fan Deck .
- Topo Chico Hard Seltzer CantinaSection 157: Focused on seltzers and spiked milkshakes.
- Marketplace 154Section 154: This is a unique, high-tech self-checkout hub. It is the only Marketplace branded location in the park and is the primary spot to find a variety of canned cocktails like High Noon, Cutwater, and Long Drink.
Wine
- AvailabilityWine is primarily sold as individual-sized 375ml bottles (roughly two glasses) for ease of transport. Where to find it: Wine is available at the Home Plate Beverage Portable (Section 128), the 1800 Tequila Bar, and the Jack Daniel's Bar.
Field Dimensions
Stadium Information
Distinguishing Features
- Exploding scoreboard
- Centerfield Fan Deck
- Fundamentals area
- Flickering LED Lights
- Old Comiskey Shower
Notable Events
- Opening Day: April 18, 1991
- 2005 World Series championship
- Albert Belle Corked Bat Game in 1994
- 2003 All Star Game
- Mark Buehrle No hitter 2007
- Jim Thome 500th Career Home Run
- Carlos Gomez Cycle in 2008
- White Sox hit 4 Consecutive Home Runs in 2008
- Mark Buehrle Perfect Game in 2009
- Francisco Liriano No Hitter 2011
- White Sox hit 4 Consecutive Home Runs in 2020
- Lucas Giolito No Hitter in 2020
- Carlos Rodón No Hitter in 2021
- Tony La Russa 2,764th Managerial Win (2nd All Time)
- Josh Naylor 8 RBI in 8th or Late in 2022
Suggested Places
Recommended places to visit near this stadium