Some think they're a key element of Wrigley's "ballpark in a neighborhood" charm. Others hold them in disdain for the way they turned a quirky fringe benefit of living near Wrigley into a business, making money hand-over-fist from a stolen product. Sure, the rooftops surrounding Wrigley Field now pay a fee to the Cubs. But they still howl over any proposed enhancements to the ballpark that might limit their sight lines even if it might improve the cash flow for the team that's actually paying the players' salaries.
Banding Together to Brand Wrigley Rooftops
Wrigley Rooftops May Open For Winter Classic
If Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) gets his wish, Wrigley Field rooftop owners will be allowed to sell tickets to the upcoming Winter Classic between the Blackhawks and rival Detroit Red Wings. While the rooftops are limited to only being open for Cubs' home games, Tunney has introduced an ordinance that would allow the rooftops to be open for the game, saying, "It's a fierce rivalry. Interest is very high and ticket prices are very high. There's an opportunity for the rooftops to do some business. For the concerts [by Jimmy Buffett and the Police], the rooftops were not that good a seat. We let them be open, but they didn't benefit financially. This time, the rooftops will have a saleable seat. Center ice is around second base." We think it's a grand idea that makes sense. And at least those rooftop clubs have indoor areas where you can actually warm up. With ticket prices for the game ranging from $75 to $325, it'll be interesting to see what prices owners put on packages. One owner, Tom Gramatis, has lowered his price to $200 per person thanks to the economy.

