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What's the surrounding area like?

Soldier Field is based in downtown Chicago. The venue is right next to the water, so some seats give views of Lake Michigan on a clear day. The consolation prize may be the odd glimpse of the city skyline for visitors sat facing the other direction - not bad for a concert venue, eh?

How can I spend the day in Chicago before heading to a concert?

Burnham Harbour

Killing time before the concert? This harbour is a nice place for a game of 'choose your fantasy yacht'.

Jazz Showcase

The oldest historic jazz club in Chicago, this famous spot is worth a visit if you've got another night in the city. It's hard to resist the charms of the lounge-style setting where live music is played seven evenings a week.

Willis Tour

Probably avoid if you suffer from vertigo. This place goes up 100 floors to claim its name as the city's  tallest building. At the top, the Skydeck dares visitors to step onto its glass balcony which extends four feet outside the tower for views across four states (if the weather plays ball). The $19.50 ticket includes the interactive exhibits, video and the chance to see plenty of terrified faces.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chosen by TripAdvisor as the best museum of 2014, the institute easily justifies its $25 charge. The walls are lined with Impressionist and Post-Impressionist pieces, works by the Old Masters and a who's who of American 20th century painting.

Where are the best places to eat and drink near Soldier Field?

Krolls

Head to this sports bar for comfy leather boots, big screens and a generous choice of specialty beers. It's based on the South Loop, by the central business district.

Gioco

Based about five blocks away, Gioco serves up rustic Italian food and wood-fired pizzas (thin crusts, mind). Chicago gangsters once whiled away the hours in this restaurant and much of its historic character has been preserved including the original brick and plaster walls.

Spoke and Bird

For a pre-concert meal or breakfast the next day, this bistro is good for something a bit healthier than most. Check it out on East 18th Street for a flavorsome menu and a beer garden for the summer.

Any other important information users should know?

Expect snow for most trips in the winter months. Although the city is kitted-out for freezing temperatures, you'd be wise to pack those extra warm coats and hats.

Public transport makes it pretty easy to get around the city centre. And don't forget the water taxis - you can ride the waves between lots of tourist spots like Chinatown, the Willis Tower, Museum Campus and Union Station.

More general info is on the visitor website.

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What's the best way to get to Soldier Field?

The nearest CTA rail station is the Roosevelt stop on the Orange, Red and Green lines. There's also the new Cermak-McCormick Place Green line station in the South Loop. After the concert, head to the Transportation Center at the corner of McFetridge and Museum Camp to catch the CTA, Metra shuttle and Pace bus services.

Is there any parking?

There are several parking lots including the underground North Garage which is big enough for 2,500 cars. To make sure you get a good spot, book beforehand - rates vary and can be found here.

What kind of food and drink can visitors expect?

Beer is sold at designated stands and by vendors in the seating bowl area. American and imported beers range from Bud and Becks to Guinness and Coors Light. Food includes the classic Chicago-style hot dogs for that cultural experience, or else there's always your other standard fare of nachos, burgers and pizzas.

Does the venue have WiFi? Is it free?

You can get online anywhere in the stadium using Boingo Wireless for $1.99 a day. There are also digital kiosks where visitors can look up public transport, find local restaurants or just email an amazing stadium pic to 100 of their closest friends.

Any other important information the user should know?

Surprisingly enough, no selfie-sticks are allowed. So if you don't fancy asking the guy next to you, it's time for the good old-fashioned arm stretch. Other banned items include umbrellas, strollers and large bags.