Cons:
1. Commuting can be a nightmare
Between the closed roads and lack of parking spots that drivers would have to deal with, the traffic which can last easily two hours before or after a Cubs game or concert. Additionally, public transportation is also considered a very unappealing choice due to the fact that overcrowded trains, filled often with people not familiar with how the CTA system works, can be frustrating, to say the least. The closed roads can also affect bus routes due to traffic. If it's an option, walking would often times be the most effective way to reach your destination. That, or hours of planning beforehand.
2. Boisterous, intense Crowds
As far as its reputation goes, the area is known for drunken Chicago Cubs fans. While dealing with this is a nuisance, the patterns of when to except their presence is predictable. Home games are ultimately the worst time, particularly if the game lands during an evening on the weekend. Despite this, due to crowd size alone, the area is generally safe and navigable - should you be unlucky enough to be caught up in the crowds, to begin with.
3. Construction
Post the 2016 World Series win, Wrigleyville is getting a makeover! Fancy new hotels, new restaurants, a movie theater, and a bowling alley is what will be coming to the area by summer 2018. While a little construction isn't the worst drawback in exchange for these amenities, it can slow down traffic (especially foot traffic) in the already congested area.
Pros:
1. Synergy and good vibes
There's nothing like the energy that reverberates around the area on a game day, or after a win. Even before 2016's World Series, the Cubs were always able to draw in a huge fan base, but now, it's all the more active. What the fans have gained in crowd and energy, they've also gained in positivity and friendliness. So, if you have to be stuck in a crowd, at least it's one of friendly, smiling faces who are all after a second Cubs victory - hopefully before another 108 years pass.
2. Concerts and Games
Even if tickets to events at Wrigley Field seem unattainable, residents know that there are ways you won't miss out - even on a budget. If open, some rooftop bars may look into the stadium, which means that you get to hear everything going on inside, and maybe even get a view of a screen. Games are often screened right across the stadium, as well as every bar and restaurant in the area. It really will feel like you're a part of the excitement with all the noise that reverberates. Should you happen to be walking past the stadium, you'll be able to hear the crowd cheering, game announcements, or an artist perform their hits live, if there's a concert - all for free.
3. You'll never run out of things to do - with everything right around you.
If you live in the area, you already know this is true - and you wouldn't have it any other way. Between the diverse food choices, to the drink specials, there's little to no incentive to stay at home. With all the bars trying to compete with each other, there will be different (and likely free) events at each bar. Examples of this include stand-up shows and open mic nights, trivia, or live music. If all of that gets exhausting or repetitive, two blocks east is the vibrant and energetic streets of Boystown, which has blocks of entertainment on its own.
