Shaded Seats at Soldier Field

What You Need to Know About Shade at Soldier Field

Located along the scenic lakefront of Chicago, Illinois, Soldier Field is the legendary, open-air home of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Fire FC. Originally opened in 1924, the stadium underwent a massive, modern reconstruction inside its historic neoclassical colonnades.

Because it is highly exposed to the swirling winds of Lake Michigan and has minimal roof protection, fans tracking sun patterns should note that the towering west grandstand is your best defense against the elements, whereas the east side houses the expansive, multi-level United Club lounge.

The West Sideline Is Best For Shade

The north-to-south orientation of the stadium means the sun tracks behind the home side toward the evening. Because of this, you want to prioritize the west sideline and covered seating.

• Sections 128 – 146: The highest rows of the lower bowl on the west side gets shaded earliest by the stadium’s upper framework.
• Sections 228 – 246 (Media Deck): Booking seats on the west side Media Deck is the most reliable way to secure shade and overhead protection without breaking the bank for a luxury suite.
• Sections 330 – 344 & 430 – 444: The upper rows of these sections also get good shade starting from the early afternoon into the later evening.

Late Afternoon And Evening

As a 1:00 PM game enters the second half or a late afternoon game kicks off, the sun drops low behind the massive west grandstand structure. The resulting shadow quickly stretches across the playing field, completely blanketing the Bears Sideline and lower west bowl.

Meanwhile, the East Sideline (Sections 101 – 117) and the North End Zone (Sections 148 – 155) remain deeply trapped in direct sunlight and severe glare until the sun completely sets below the stadium rim.