Public Transportation in Chicago Il.

<Chicago Hotels Home Page

The Chicago Transit Authority CTA 888 YOUR-CTA Is a system of trains and buses that travel throughout the city of Chicago. Between the El’s extensive lines and the buses gridlike stations tourist are generally steps away from a bus stop or El platform conveniently transporting them through out the city. Visitors may purchase a Visitor’s Pass for approximately $5.00 at hotels, the Chicago’s Office of Tourism visitor information centers or museums.

By the EL and The Subway This rapid transit system operates five major lines identified by color. During the 8 to 5 work day, most trains run every 10 to 20 minutes. Pay close attention to the timetable posted at all El platforms because not all stations operate under the same schedule.

By Bus The bus stations are distinguished by blue & white signs.

PACE Bus 847 364-7223 covers the suburbs of Chicago & usually operates every 20 to 30 minutes.

The Metra 312 322-6777 is a commuter railroad it consists of 12 trains & serves 6 county suburban areas in Chicago. It offers a $5.00 weekend pass for unlimited rides on Saturday & Sunday

Taxi
Taxis are easily accessible in The Loop, Magnificent Mile, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, & River North. The average cost of a cab begins at $1.60 increasing by $1.40 for each mile. There is a $.50 surcharge for each additional rider from the age of 12 to 65. Don’t be surprised, taxis are not uniformly colored. Some cab companies serving Chicago are as follows, Checker, Flash, & Yellow.

By Car
Driving around Chicago is fairly simple. Traffic runs fairly smoothly for the most part of the day due to the well planned wide expressways. A good scenic road to travel on is Lake Shore Drive. It spans the length of the city & near the great lake .

Public Parking areas

Grant Parking: 312 222-9328 located at Michigan avenue & Van Buren also on Michigan & Monroe

MAP Parking: 312 986-6822 350 N. Orleans

McCormick Place Parking 312 747-7194 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.

Midcontinental Plaza Garage 312 986-6821 55 E. Monroe

Navy Pier Parking 312 595-7437 600 E. Grand Ave.

Airlines

Airports

O’Hare International Airport (773/686 2200) This airport is one of the United States busiest airports. Its is located approximately in the northwest part of the city & depending on traffic is a 25-30 minute drive to downtown. There are information booths located in each of the five terminals on the baggage level. Look for airport personnel in red jacket uniforms if you need assistance with arranging ground transportation.

Taxi A taxi ride from the airport to downtown will cost you approximately $25. to $30. depending on the traffic. A taxi cab attendant can arrange a shared ride for approximately $15. per person.

The El (an elevated train) will get you to downtown in approximately 30 minutes regardless of traffic for the cost of a $1.50. (for more information about The El refer to Public Transportation)

Midway Airport (773/838 0600) This is located on the southwest of the city & is located closer to The Loop. It is smaller than the O’Hare Airport so not as many airlines service here.

Taxi A ride to downtown will cost you approximately $15.00 to $20.00 depending on the traffic.

The El (an elevated train) The Orange line services this airport with a one way cost of a $1.50. The Orange line operating hours are from 5:00am to 11:30pm.

Limo Service The cost of a limo service for one way would be approximately $85. for either airport. Chicago Limousine Service (312/726-1035)