Getting Around Chicago

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers direct train service from both airports into downtown, as well as bus and train lines to all major attractions. Using simple fare cards and easy-to-use maps and brochures, you will have no trouble navigating your way around this large metropolitan town.

For route, fare and schedules, call 312-836-7000 from 5am-1am Central time. The Chicago Transit Authority map and downtown sightseeing guide are easily available for your use at all train stations, airports, visitor information centers and hotels.

The fare for one ride is $1.75 for ages 12 and up. If you are planning a longer stay and wish to travel about the city using public transportation, you can also purchase CTA Transit Cards that automatically deduct fares and transfers. These can be used on all trains and buses and at any CTA train station.

Visitor passes are also available and relatively cheap. They are available for 1-day, 2-day, 3-day and 5-day. They allow unlimited rides on buses and trains. If you are planning to do a lot of sightseeing, traveling from destination to destination, these are the best value. You can purchase these visitor passes at airports, visitor information centers and other attractions.

To purchase passes or transit cards before you travel, call 1-888-968-7282.

Taxicabs are also another easy option for traveling around Chicago. You can walk out from any attraction or your hotel and hail a cab without any effort. The meter starts at $2.25, plus $1.00 for each additional passenger. The fare increases $1.60 for every mile or $2.00 for every six minutes of waiting time.