The official name of the hood may be Lakeview but everyone knows to call it Wrigleyville. And for good reason: It's hard to visit the area without noticing the immense baseball stadium sitting smack dab in the middle.Built in 1914 for a total cost of $250,000, Wrigley Field is the second oldest park (Boston's Fenway Park is first) in the Major Leagues. Originally named Weeghman Park for the Chicago Federal League baseball team, the Chicago Whales, it was renamed in 1926 to its present name after than Cubs team owner and chewing gum bigwig William Wrigley Jr. In addition to its status as home to the Chicago Cubs, ‘The Friendly Confines,' nicknamed such by Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, has hosted the Chicago Bears (1921-1970), an NHL Winter Classic (Jan. 2009) and concerts from The Police and Jimmy Buffett (look for performances this year from Rascal Flatts and Billy Joel with Elton John). Then there are all the cameos Wrigley Field has made in movies, including The Blues Brothers, Ferris Bueller's Day Off and The Break-Up.
But name aside, Wrigleville is much more than Wrigley Field (sorry die-hard Cub fans). Surrounding the stadium are more restaurants and bars than you can shake a baseball bat at, catering to both fans and those there simply for the fun and food. So matter why you happen to find yourself in Wrigleyville and no matter the time of year, you definitely won't be bored.
