Chicago Bears stadium plans remain a major topic in the NFL as the franchise continues exploring options for a new home while still playing at Soldier Field in 2026.
The organization has spent several years evaluating long-term stadium solutions. After purchasing the former Arlington International Racecourse property in Arlington Heights in 2023, the Bears shifted attention toward a new domed lakefront stadium proposal in Chicago. Both locations remain under consideration, and discussions continue across government, financial, and planning levels.
No final construction agreement has been approved. However, stadium planning remains active and central to the team’s future strategy.
Soldier Field Remains the Current Chicago Bears Stadium
The Chicago Bears continue to play at Soldier Field, one of the NFL’s most historic venues. The stadium opened in 1924 and underwent a major renovation completed in 2003.
Key details about the current stadium:
- Seating capacity: roughly 61,500
- Owned by the Chicago Park District
- Bears lease extends through 2033
- Structural limitations restrict large-scale modernization
Compared with newer NFL stadiums, Soldier Field offers fewer revenue opportunities tied to premium seating and year-round events. This gap has increased urgency around a new stadium project.
Reasons Behind the Push for a New Stadium
The Bears want a modern stadium that supports long-term financial growth and expanded fan experiences.
Primary goals include:
- Increased premium seating and suites
- Ability to host major non-NFL events
- Development of entertainment and retail districts
- Greater control over stadium operations
Many NFL teams have moved toward mixed-use stadium developments that operate year-round. The Bears aim to follow that model.
A new Chicago Bears stadium would allow the franchise to compete financially with teams that already operate modern venues.
Lakefront Stadium Proposal: Current Progress
The most visible proposal focuses on a new domed stadium near the Museum Campus, south of Soldier Field.
Major components of the concept include:
- Fully enclosed dome design
- Significant private funding for stadium construction
- Public infrastructure improvements
- Expanded green space along the lakefront
- Mixed-use development surrounding the venue
A domed stadium would allow Chicago to host events traditionally limited by winter weather, including major championships and large entertainment events.
Negotiations continue around infrastructure funding, transportation upgrades, and project approvals. As of 2026, no final authorization has been granted.
Arlington Heights Remains in Play
The Arlington Heights property still plays an important role in the Chicago Bears stadium strategy.
Important factors about the site:
- The Bears own the land
- The property spans more than 300 acres
- Plans included a large entertainment district
- Property tax discussions slowed progress
Because the team controls the land, Arlington Heights offers flexibility for long-term development. It also allows for a large, integrated district similar to other recent NFL stadium projects.
The organization has not ruled out this option.
Financial and Political Considerations
Stadium projects require coordination between teams, local governments, and state leaders. The Bears’ stadium effort involves multiple public and private stakeholders.
Key discussion areas include:
- Infrastructure funding models
- Transportation upgrades
- Economic impact projections
- Long-term tax structure
The team has emphasized private investment for stadium construction. Public funding conversations focus primarily on infrastructure improvements.
Debate continues in 2026, making financing one of the most important unresolved elements.
Potential Design Features
Concept renderings highlight a modern stadium built for year-round activity.
Possible features include:
- Dome structure for all-weather events
- Expanded hospitality and premium seating areas
- Advanced technology for fan engagement
- Larger concourses and upgraded amenities
- Entertainment development surrounding the stadium
A domed Chicago Bears stadium would represent a major shift for a franchise historically associated with outdoor football.
Weather flexibility remains a central advantage of the dome concept.
Timeline Outlook
The Bears have not announced a construction start date. The timeline depends on final site selection and funding agreements.
Expected next steps:
- Continued negotiations through 2026
- Final site decision before groundbreaking
- Multi-year construction period after approval
Large NFL stadium developments typically take three to four years to complete once construction begins.
With the Soldier Field lease running through 2033, the team has time to finalize its long-term plan.
Impact on Chicago and the NFL
A new Chicago Bears stadium would influence both the city and the league.
Potential outcomes include:
- Hosting major national sporting events
- Increased tourism activity
- Higher franchise valuation
- Modernized fan experience
Chicago remains one of the NFL’s largest markets. A modern stadium would strengthen its position as a destination for major events.
The project therefore carries significance beyond the team itself.
What Comes Next
The next major decision centers on choosing the final stadium location. Both the lakefront proposal and Arlington Heights option remain active.
Observers continue to watch:
- Government approvals
- Infrastructure funding agreements
- Property tax negotiations
- Final design announcements
As of 2026, the Chicago Bears stadium process remains ongoing, with planning continuing across multiple fronts.
The future of the Chicago Bears stadium is still unfolding — share your opinion on where the team should build its next home.