Ivy Walls

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Lore & Background

In 1937, Bill Veeck, the son of the club president, planted ivy vines against the outfield walls after being inspired by the ivy planted at Perry Stadium, Indianapolis.

In Their Own Story

During a game in the late afternoon, a high fly ball arcs toward left field against the backdrop of the emerald-covered brick wall. The crowd watches intently as the sphere strikes the leaves with a soft thud, then bounces back onto the warning track for an out. This scenario has repeated countless times since 1937, defining the unique character of Wrigley Field. The ivy's presence means that home runs are not always automatic; a ball may vanish into the green only to return to play, creating debated moments that have become part of Cubs lore. The walls remain untouched during the season, allowing the vines to grow freely while serving as both a boundary and an obstacle for outfielders.

Reader's Guide

Wrigley Field is well-known for its ivy-covered brick outfield wall, distinctive wind patterns off Lake Michigan, the red marquee over the main entrance, and the hand-turned scoreboard. The stadium is situated in a primarily residential neighborhood without parking lots, and spectators have views from the rooftops behind the outfield. Additionally, it was the last Major League Baseball (MLB) park to have lights installed for night games, in 1988.

Did You Know?

• Wrigley Field is the oldest park in the National League and the second-oldest in the majors after Fenway Park (1912).
• It is the only remaining Federal League park.
• The park was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2020.
• From 1921 to 1970, the stadium was also home to the Chicago Bears of the National Football League—though the team was known as the Chicago Staleys in 1921 before being renamed the Bears in 1922.