The stadium was originally designed as a Greek and Roman-style amphitheater capable of seating 100,000 spectators.
The 2003 renovation caused the stadium to be stripped of its National Historic Landmark status in 2006 due to the major alterations to the original structure.
The signature Doric columns from the original 1924 design remain visible around the exterior of the current facility.
The field surface was converted from natural grass to a synthetic slit-film turf system in 2022.
In 1927, the stadium hosted the famous 'Long Count' boxing match between Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney, which drew over 100,000 people.
The stadium's capacity was reduced to approximately 61,500 after the 2003 reconstruction, making it the smallest stadium in the NFL by seating capacity.
It hosted the opening match of the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
The venue sits on land that was formerly part of a landfill used to expand the city's lakefront park system.
Soldier Field is a historic multi-purpose stadium situated on the Museum Campus in Chicago, Illinois. It serves as the home stadium for the NFL's Chicago Bears and Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer. Originally opened in 1924 as Municipal Grant Park Stadium, it was renamed to honor United States armed forces veterans. The stadium underwent a significant modernization in 2003, which retained the original 1920s neoclassical exterior colonnades while inserting a modern interior bowl. It holds the distinction of being the oldest stadium in the National Football League. The venue is located directly adjacent to Lake Michigan, providing views of the Chicago skyline. It frequently hosts major international soccer matches, large-scale concerts, and public events throughout the year.
The exterior neoclassical colonnades from the north end during the golden hour.
Check the clear bag policy before arriving, as strict security screening is enforced for all stadium events.
Bring layers, as the proximity to Lake Michigan causes significant wind chill, even during milder months.
Walk the surrounding Museum Campus trails before your event to see the stadium's integration with the lakefront parkland.
Do not attempt to park on-site without a pre-purchased parking pass, as lots frequently sell out well in advance.
Operations are event-dependent; the grounds are generally accessible to the public except during ticketed events or private stadium rentals.
Standard professional sports stadium conduct; refrain from wearing rival team apparel in home-dedicated sections.
