Atmosphere
Guaranteed Rate Field will give you one of the most authentic baseball experiences in the league. Unlike Chicago’s counterpart on the North side (Wrigley Field), you won’t find many tourists on the South Side; instead, you will find a knowledgeable, passionate fan base more invested in their team than most. The White Sox fan base is deeply rooted in generational commitment and the only way to understand the tradition is to take in a game at New Comiskey Park.
Tailgating is allowed around Guaranteed Rate Field, and many fans take advantage of that, particularly the Wolf Pack (see below). Because of the White Sox fan base being so invested in their team, the tailgating scene can be anywhere from lively and festive to a little more tense depending on how the team has been playing. For fans who prefer to pre-game at the bars, there are some good (and historic!) places near the stadium to drink at before the game.
Traditions
The Wolf Pack
These die-hard fans anxiously await the arrival of opening day every year - they are the Chicago White Sox’s most dedicated and loyal fans who tailgate for every game in parking lot C. For the most authentic U.S. Cellular Field experience, make your way over to their tailgate and see why the term “die-hard” is proudly a part of their White Sox loyalty.
Champions Plaza
Right near the main entrance at Gate 4 in the Cell is the Champion’s Plaza which is home to a large bronze-granite monument dedicated to the 2005 World Series Championship White Sox. Be sure also to check out the many legacy bricks which are inscribed with personal messages from fans while visiting the plaza.
Where to tailgate
-
Schaller’s PumpLocated seven blocks away from the Cell is the historical Schaller’s Pump, which has been owned and operated by the Schaller family since 1881. Not only do they have great beer and food, they allow free parking for White Sox games
-
Cory and Kerry at the ParkYou’re not truly a South Sider unless you take in the rich Irish culture near the Cell and this bar is the best place to do just that; enjoy a Guinness and relax before the game.
-
Parking Lots A-G and LThe parking lots surrounding the Cell allow tailgating two hours before first pitch so feel free to set up camp and pre-game in one of these lots. Grilling and bags are a favorite among White Sox fans
-
Shinnick’s PubThis family owned pub has been serving White Sox fans since 1938 and is one of the oldest bars in the area. Many fans stop in for a beer, or a few, before Sox games as it is only seven blocks away from The Cell