Opening day is upon us, and all we can say is let’s play ball! After a long year of waiting, Thursday, April 1st, marks the return of the Cubs to Wrigley Field with fans in the stands. As they gear up to take on the Pittsburgh Pirates, safety protocols are still in place for fans with a 25% capacity, mandatory mask-wearing, and 6 foot social-distancing throughout the park. With limited spots, we know you may not have been able to snag a ticket this time, but don’t you worry! While we may not be able to take you out directly to the ball game, we know the hot spots to safely celebrate opening day with good company.
Where to Watch
In Wrigleyville, there’s no shortage of places to still get the ball-park experience of you can’t score a ticket. As a note, indoor dining restrictions are operating at 50% capacity and tables are limited to 6 guests or less (unless you’re outside – then it’s 10), so make sure to call or reserve your spots ahead of the big game!
When watching the game, you’ll find the die-hard fans in any bar. However, if you’re looking to be immersed in the Cubs experience, check out The Cubby Bear to watch the game this Thursday. To get the classic sports bar feel, head to Rizzo’s Bar & Inn, Deuce’s Major League Bar, Murphy’s Bleachers, Lucky Dorr Pub and Tap, Stretch Bar and Grill or The Sports Corner Bar and Grill. Tasty food and plenty of beer are guaranteed!
If you’re looking for a pub or smaller dive bar, you simply can’t go wrong with Houndstooth Saloon, Irish Oak, Full Shilling Public House, The Graystone Tavern or HVAC Pub. If you’re looking for designated outdoor space, check out Casey Moran’s, Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern, or Vines on Clark to watch on their rooftops and outdoor gardens.
Lastly, you might want to watch the game, but need to change up your activities every now and then. We suggest Sluggers to try out their batting cages and mini-skee ball, or snagging a lane at Lucky Strike Social.
Before/After the Game
Now, you’re either buzzing with anticipation before the game or looking forward to the celebration after (because let’s face it, the Cubs are going to win!), and there’s plenty of shops and restaurants around to keep the party going. First off, even if you’re not in the stadium you can still represent your local team. Stock up on Cubs and Wrigleyville gear by stopping in at Clark Street Sports or Wrigleyville Sports!
By then, you’ve gotta be starving, so head over to Dimo’s Pizza to pick up a pie that will rock your world, or stop by Lucky’s Sandwich Company to see if you can take on the famous Lucky’s Challenge. If you want to keep on drinking with good company, make a reservation for socially-distanced Happy Camper cocktails.
If you just want to burn off some post-game energy, switch it up with a glass of wine and tapas at Figo Wine Bar on Sheffield. Then, the perfect end (or beginning, even) to your day will be to grab a scoop of ‘original’ ice cream at Kilwins!
While we have by no means mentioned every place available to watch the big game, check out the full lists of Wrigleyville restaurants, bars, and shops. Reserve your spots and make your plans because IT’S OPENING DAY!
