Transportation in Chicago
Chicago is easy to navigate as it's built on a grid system. Bordered by Lake Michigan to the east, its centre, north, south and west sides each have their own personality.Most tourist attractions huddle near Downtown/Loop or nearby. Public transport makes it easy for newcomers to get around.In the centre, find soaring skyscrapers, a bustling financial district and lots of shops, entertainment and excellent restaurants. Travel west to quirky Wicker Park and Bucktown or past the city limits to Oak Park. Journey north to the posh Gold Coast, the theatre district of Lincoln Park and the upscale North Shore suburbs. Go south for diverse neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Bronzeville and Hyde Park.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Subway/El
The quickest way around the city is by the "El", a combination elevated train and subway. Nine colour-co-ordinated lines go to both airports and meander around the city and to some northern suburbs. Except for the Skokie Swift, they can all be accessed from the Loop.
Taxi
Hailing a cab in busy areas like Wrigleyville, the Loop and Michigan Avenue is effortless. During morning and evening rush hour, it is another story. Phoning one up will not hasten the process.
Bus
Buses run throughout the city, connect with the ‘El' and go to places that are not accessible by train. Do be aware that heavy traffic plays havoc with the schedules. Most Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses run 24 hours. Overnight or Night Owl services operate between approximately 12am and 5pm.
Foot
Foot power, for short trips and especially in the congested Downtown area, is most efficient. Underground ‘Pedways' (pedestrian walkways) link 40 blocks of Loop shops, train stations and office buildings. They are especially useful for avoiding inclement weather.
Boat
Shoreline Sightseeing operates 42-seat water taxi boats between Navy Pier and the Museum Campus during warmer months.
Trolley
From late May until early September, the Free Trolley runs to Navy Pier, the Museum Campus and along State Street, Grand Avenue and Illinois Street.
Train
The South Shore Line, Metra and Amtrak are quick, efficient and relaxing. They serve the suburbs and surrounding areas.
Rent your car
Chicago has a grid layout, with expressways radiating from the city. Weekday traffic is heavy during peak morning and evening times, so aim to come and go between 10am and 3pm. You should watch out for parking restrictions and for overnight stays hotel parking is often the best option.
Transportation Tips
A one- to five-day Visitor Pass for unlimited CTA rides is available at the Chicago Cultural Center and at several outlets around the city. Prices range from US$5 for a one-day pass to US$18 for five days. Take caution when riding public transportation late at night.
Chicago Transit Authority websiteChicago Regional Transit Authority website
