GETTING AROUND CHICAGO
Find your way once you are here.
CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY
‘L' Trains: Not all of Chicago's eight ‘L' lines are "elevated." They do, however, connect the city via above-ground, street-level and subway trains and serve 144 stations all over town, making the ‘L' one of the most efficient and affordable methods of transportation available. Two lines offer round-the-clock service: the Blue Line, which connects the airport and downtown, and the Red Line, with service between the North and South Sides, via downtown.
Buses: More than 100 routes lace the city; buses stop every few blocks. Several lines operate 24 hours. Exact change is required.
Fares
Single Trip: $2.25. Pay cash or purchase a reloadable Transit Card, available at ‘L' stations and on transitchicago.com.
Unlimited Ride Passes
Enjoy unlimited rides on all CTA buses and trains with the below passes, which activate upon first use and are good for the number of consecutive days shown on the front of the pass.
- 1-Day CTA Fun Pass: $5.75
- 3-Day CTA Pass: $14
- 7-Day CTA Pass: $23
METRA COMMUTER RAIL
The high-speed Metra train connects outlying suburbs to downtown and is an easy way to get into the heart of the city fast.
Fares
For fares and maps, visit METRA's website at metrarail.com.
TAXIS
- Taxis are plentiful and easy-to-hail in downtown, and offer a convenient way to get around the city.
- Taxis charge a base rate of $2.25 for the first 1/9 mile, plus, $.20 for each additional 1/9 mile.
- If a gas surcharge is in effect, a sign will be displayed inside the taxicab and a surcharge may apply. Tolls are an extra charge; taxis charge $1 for the first additional passenger over age 12 and under age 65. Each additional passenger after first passenger, over 12 and under 65 is $.50.
- It is standard to tip the driver about 15-20 percent of the fare, plus $1-2 per bag if the driver helps you with luggage.
Please note that all fares are subject to change.
PARKING
Click here to access an interactive parking map of downtown Chicago.
