If you're a baseball fan, no visit to the Windy City is complete without taking in a game at one of America's most iconic ballparks, Wrigley Field. Even if you're not a hardcore Cubs fan, watching these hometown heroes play to a rowdy local crowd on their home turf is an unforgettable experience. So after booking your Chicago hotel, equip yourself with these helpful Wrigley Field tips: where to park, where to sit, and how to get the most out of your game day experience.

Wrigley Field Parking

Finding a place to park near Wrigley Field is challenge. Located in the residential Wrigleyville neighborhood, street parking around the ballpark can disappear in the blink of an eye. Parking at the stadium comes with a high price tag. If you can, catch a cab or use public transportation to save yourself the frustration of searching out a spot—Metra Trains, Pace shuttle buses and CTA buses and trains all service Wrigley Field. The stadium offers free off-site parking and shuttle service from the Wrigley Field Remote Lot, a little over two miles from the ballpark.

Getting Tickets

Chicagoans love their baseball, so there's a good chance you might miss your opportunity if you wait to buy tickets on game day. Tickets for summer ballgames go especially quickly, and if the Cubs are playing the crosstown rival White Sox, a packed house is all but guaranteed. Beat the scalpers by buying your tickets well in advance online. Single game tickets typically go on sale around the end of February, and buying early can help you get the seats you want. Tickets are available through the team’s official website, by phone or at the Wrigley Field box office.

The Best Seat in the House

Where you want to sit is a matter of personal preference, but you should definitely watch the game from the bleachers at least once in your life. Yes, it's loud, rowdy, soaked in beer and littered with peanut shells, but that's part of what makes the game authentic. However, if you don't want to deal with the hassle, go for a seat in the 400 level of the upper deck where you can still get a great view of the field.

Enjoying the Game

Whether it rains or shines and whether the home team wins or loses, taking in a game at Wrigley Field might be the highlight of your Chicago trip. Keep these extra tips in mind to get the most out of game day:

• Unlike most ballparks, you're perfectly welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to Wrigley Field. That being said, getting a hot dog and some peanuts at the game is a part of the experience that you might not want to skip

• Clothing and souvenirs aren’t cheap when you buy them at the stadium. Purchasing them in advance can save you some money, and you can actually wear your new gear to the game.

• Wrigley Field is a stunning piece of architecture with beautiful ivy-covered brick walls and an old-school scoreboard that’s still updated by hand. Take the time to walk around to see as much as possible. If you're sitting in one of those backless bleacher seats, you'll be grateful for a chance to get on your feet for a while.