Getting around Chicago Public Transportation

Looking for information on how to get around Chicago public transportation? This resource will help plan a trip so that you can make the most of your Chicago itinerary. Visit the provided links to find out more about local transport options.

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By foot

Chicago is a walkable city between the downtown Financial District, the near west side, and all the way to Lincoln Park via the Magnificent Mile. Green spaces like Grant Park and Millenium Park provide a fresh space for walking. The Lakefront Trail, Chicago Riverwalk, and Lincoln Park, are likewise kind to walkers. For those looking to educate themselves in movement, there are numerous Chicago walking tours available. Known for its distinct four seasons, some days may prove too harsh for an open stroll. Such days provide an opportunity to use the lesser-known Chicago PedwayOpens in a new window, a system of indoor underground walkways in the Loop. In warmer months, Chicago's urban planning lends itself to enjoying a segway tourOpens in a new window

By bike

Cycling Chicago is possible because there are bike lanes, dedicated green spaces with pedestrian and cycle paths, and a general awareness of cyclists. It's still important to be careful when riding a bike in Chicago, because like any big city the traffic can be maddening. Plan a trip with a bike tour company to save yourself the hassel of planning routes yourself. For gregarious adventurers, peppered throughout downtown Chicago are bike share stationsOpens in a new window, and for a nominal fee travelers can use these bikes at will for a whole day.

See bike route mapsOpens in a new window

By train and bus

The official Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) websiteOpens in a new window has the most up-to-date information about local public transportation. Chicago's public transportation system is well-suited to the carless traveler.

The local train is referred to as the "L", since there is more track above street level than below. Learn this nomenclature, because asking for the "metro" or the "subway" may confuse Chicagans. The L circles the downtown area before its color-coded lines stretch out toward the suburbs to the north, south, and west. This circle is called the "Loop", which is how locals refer colloquially to downtown Chicago. There are different ways to pay, but the Ventra card is the most common (see fare information hereOpens in a new window).

Riding the CTA busOpens in a new window is easy, and routes tend to fill in the spaces the L train does not serve. Fares are transferable between bus and L train for a small additional fee. Between these two modes of transportation, travelers can access any part of the city.

See official CTA maps and routes for trains and busesOpens in a new window

By car and taxi

Most of Chicago is accessible by foot and public transport, but some prefer the flexibility of a rental car, especially for those planning on more distant excursions. Parking in downtown Chicago can be expensive, so it is smart to book a hotel with free parking if possible. Chicago is nicely connected to its surrounds by local roads, highways, and the interstates. Winter travelers should be wary of renting cars if not adept at driving in the snow and ice. Chicago has a number of large taxi transport companies servicing the proper and subrubs, so travelers can easily hail a cab. Also, rideshares are readily available throughout the Chicagoland area.

By water

Time permitting, taking a water taxi offers a unique way to experience the city. There are a number of boat tours for those travelers interested in learning about Chicago's architectural history that leave from downtown or Navy Pier. There is also a regular service with 7 routesOpens in a new window connecting as far north as Goose Island with as far south as Chinatown. Winter might prove a difficult time to book these trips as sometimes snow and ice affect the schedule.