Planning on visiting the Windy City and need help getting around Chicago? Then you should understand your Chicago public transportation options for traveling within and outside the city. Chicago is a convenient metropolitan area because there are many ways to travel around various neighborhoods.
Here’s a complete guide to Chicago transportation so you can better navigate everything this vibrant city has to offer.
Understanding Chicago Public Transportation
The first step to getting around Chicago is knowing your starting point. Chicago public transit options differ when traveling within the city or from the suburbs. A major metro, it can seem overwhelming to know where to start.
But with a transportation guide, it’s easier to know where you want to go and how to get there.
Inner City Chicago Transit
If you’re visiting Chicago, then you must understand how to travel on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). It’s Chicago’s public transportation system for buses, airports, and trains. The CTA is also a local government resource for city travel regulations, visitor information, and accessibility information.
Chicago Transit Authority Train (CTA Train)
Many people ask, “Does Chicago have a subway?” Yes. Chicago has a train system in some parts of the city that goes underground like a traditional subway. But in many parts, it’s elevated, earning the nickname “The El” or “L.” There are over 140 stations, with eight lines running both above and underground. Ticket fares are around $5 or less and usually operate every 15 minutes during standard operating hours and every 30 minutes for overnight (owl) services.
If you’ll be traveling a lot on CTA, consider buying a Ventra Card to save on train and bus costs. Ventra Cards offer single-day, three-day, seven-day, and 30-day passes for unlimited train or bus rides for one person based on the pass length from first use. There are also free and discounted fares available to students and for those who qualify for the Reduced Fare and Free Ride programs offered by the CTA.
For simplicity, all lines are known by their color name (Red, Brown, Green). Check out the CTA website to find the specific line for your transportation needs!
Red Line ‘L’
The Red Line “L” is a 24-hour train service between Howard on the North Side and 95th/Day Ryan on the South Side via subway through downtown Chicago. Service runs around every 15 minutes, then every 15 to 30 minutes overnight. This route is best if you’re in the city until late at night since it has a 24-hour operating station downtown.
Brown Line ‘L’
The Brown Line “L” is a daily transit service from Kimball to downtown Chicago. Both lines run around every 15 minutes within operating schedules. This route is practical for travelers near the Albany Park neighborhood who want to hit downtown. However, owl services aren’t available for this line.
Green Line ‘L’
The Green Line “L” is a transit service between Harlem in Forest Park and Oak Park to 63rd St on Chicago’s South Side. It goes through downtown Chicago via the Lake and Wabash sides of Loop L. It runs every 24 minutes from Cottage Grove and Ashland/63rd and every 12 minutes from Garfield. This route is best if you’re traveling from Oak Park or nearby suburbs.
Chicago Transit Authority Bus (CTA Bus)
The public Chicago bus system for inner-city travel is the CTA bus. Most routes run daily through the late evening and stop every two blocks at posted street signs. Owl service is only available at select routes and runs about every 30 minutes. It’s also bike-friendly, with bike racks and accessibility available on each bus. Bus fares range from $2.25 to $2.50 with free transfers or unlimited passes for individuals via a Ventra Card.
Taxis
Public taxis and shared ride delivery services are abundant in Chicago due to its metropolitan area. Fare rates depend on distance and time of day/night. Water taxis are also an option if you like shoreline sightseeing to major Chicago attractions, like Navy Pier and Union Station.
Bike Rentals
Chicago is designed for cyclists with designated bicycle lanes and many bike-share service options, like Divvy, throughout the city. Chicago public transportation also allows you to bring bike rentals on its buses and trains with ample designated parking areas.
Electric Scooters
Electric scooters are a popular option for neighborhoods outside of the downtown Chicago area. Look for a Lime or Divvy scooter, scan the code on your phone, and zoom off!
Walking
Chicago is designated as a Gold-level community due to its excellent design guidelines and policy approaches that support walking and pedestrian safety by walkfriendly.org. As one of the best walkable cities in the U.S., getting around Chicago by walking is a practical way to save on public transportation costs.
Outer City Chicago Transportation (Chicagoland)
Now that you know Chicago’s inner city public transit work, here’s how to get there from outside the city and nearby suburbs, known as Chicagoland.
Airports
Chicago has two international airports close by: O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. The Chicago Metra L-trains go directly from both airports into the city. You can buy a single Ventra Ticket or Ventra Card to load money onto it for up to seven people. Tickets are only $5 or less from the airport to the CTA trains. They’re cheaper than taxis, shuttle vans, and rideshare services— typically around $25 to over $100, depending on where you’re going.
Chicago Commuter Bus (Pace)
The Chicagoland area has its own public bus transportation system called Pace. It travels through 274 municipalities in nearby Chicago counties, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will. With many destinations to get into the city, it’s designed for suburban commuters. Pace’s major routes run every 30 to 60 minutes daily through mid-evening and connect with CTA and Metra in many locations.
Chicago Metra
The Chicago Metra is the city’s commuter rail system. The difference between Chicago Metra and CTA trains is where you’re coming from. CTA trains are for inner-city Chicago travelers, while the Metra is for the suburbs and is most recognizable for its two-level train cars. Its stops include Fox Lake, Homewood, and University Park. For locals who need help getting around Illinois into Chicago, the Metra has many convenient routes into the city.
CTA Train
While CTA trains are designated transit services for traveling inside Chicago, and several L Lines extend service stops beyond the city limits (Blue, Orange, Purple, Pink, Green, Yellow), they also make stops outside the city.
Blue Line ‘L’
The Blue Line “L” is a 24-hour rapid transit service between Chicago O’Hare International Airport and the Forest Park terminal through downtown Chicago. It runs around every 15 minutes, then 15 to 30 minutes for overnight service. If you’re coming from out of state, the Blue Line is a direct route from the airport to the heart of the city.
Orange Line ‘L’
The Orange Line “L” is a transit service between Midway Airport, downtown Chicago (Loop), and Chicago’s Southwest Side. Routes run every 15 minutes within their operating schedule. This transit line is also ideal for those traveling from the airport or out of state to downtown Chicago. However, it’s not a 24-hour operating schedule like the Blue Line.
Purple Line ‘L’
The Purple Line ‘L’ is a transit service between Linden (in Wilmette) and Howard (in Chicago) via Evanston. This route is best if you’re traveling from the suburbs and want a direct route to Chicago. Its schedule has weekday rush times and express service available to the downtown Loop. Trains arrive around every 15 minutes within operating hours.
Pink Line ‘L’
The Pink Line ‘L’ is a daily transit service from 54th/Cermak (in Cicero) to the downtown Chicago Loop. This route is best if you’re coming from the nearby suburbs, like Berwyn and Stickney, since the train station is in Cicero and goes to downtown Chicago.
Green Line ‘L’
The Green Line “L” is another option if you’re traveling from the nearby suburbs. Outer areas like Oak Park, Forest Park, and River Forest can take this line straight to downtown Chicago since the train station is in Oak Park.
Yellow Line ‘L’
The Yellow Line ‘L’ is a transit service between Dempster-Skokie (in Skokie) and Howard (in Chicago). While there’s no direct service to downtown Chicago, a connecting service is available via the Purple Line Express or Red Line. This route is best if you’re traveling from further suburbs, like Morton Grove and Wildwood, since the train station is in Skokie and goes to Chicago.
NICTD/South Shore Line (Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District)
The NICTD/South Shore Line is a transit service for commuters traveling far from outside the city or state. It runs from Millennium Station in downtown Chicago and the South Bend International Airport in South Bend, Indiana.
Amtrak
Amtrak is a cross-country public transit service that travels to Chicago with a train station at Chicago-Union Station. Operating hours run from 5:30 am to 11:59 pm. Average train arrival times and ticket pricing depend on where you’re traveling from. Ticket fares depend on your destination and distance.
Driving & Parking
While driving is an option, it’s important to know that Chicago has heavy foot and vehicle traffic, which can limit public parking spaces. You may have to pay for a parking garage or meter spot. Whether it’s your car or a rental, always scope out the area online beforehand to know where to park.
Mobile payments via ParkChicago are available to pay for public parking from your phone. Park Chicago is a city government-backed mobile app where you can park, extend time, get time expiration notifications, and access a map of all its parking spots in Chicago. We highly recommend setting up your ParkChicago account on its app ahead of your travel plans.
If you’re commuting for work, businesses can also manage employee parking and get expense reports. Hourly rates vary from $2.50 to $7.00, depending on the location. Due to the many tolls in Chicagoland, you may require an I-Pass for certain routes.
Popular Inner City Transit Stops for Getting Around Chicago
With an overview of Chicago’s public transportation, here are some popular city neighborhoods and how to get there.
Buena Park
Buena Park is an uptown Chicago neighborhood nestled next to Lake Michigan. As a small lakeside community with a big town feel, this district is known for its greenery, parks, and growing entertainment district. From dog-friendly beaches to historical Prairie-style architecture, it’s only a few miles away from downtown Chicago, with much to see.
Take the CTA’s Red Line Sheridan stop, CTA express bus, or jump on Lake Shore Drive for quick access anywhere in the city. People choose to live in Buena Park because it’s less crowded than other areas within Chicago.
Downtown Chicago
Downtown Chicago is the hub of the city. Locals often refer to it as The Loop because of the circuit shape that the “El” tracks form around downtown Chicago. It’s home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean,” at Millennium Park.
As the location for the city’s main attractions, this is one of the best places to start when traveling throughout the city. Walk along the River Walk for waterfront views of the Chicago River or sightsee on Navy Pier along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
Metra train stations that are accessible to downtown Chicago are:
•LaSalle St. Station (Metra)
•Millennium Station (Metra)
•Ogville Transportation Center, E-10
•Union Station (Amtrak and Metra)
If you’re travelling within the city, look for your nearest L stop on The Loop map. There are also various bus stops throughout the area. With plenty of restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and cityscape views, the things to do downtown are endless.
Edgewater
Edgewater is a beachfront community in Chicago with lakefront trails, gourmet dining, and local boutiques. From relaxing at Osterman Beach to beautiful parks, you can enjoy nature even in the city. You can hop off the CTA Red Line at the Thorndale or Granville station, express bus, or drive on Lake Shore Drive to travel from Edgewater into the city.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is near the University of Chicago Law School, with many shops, lakefront trails, and local attractions. Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House, a national historic landmark of the 20th century, or walk around the local campus. This walkable neighborhood has train stations at the University of Chicago Station, 51st, 53rd, 56th, 57th, and 59th St.
Lakeview
Lakeview is a unique gem in Chicago’s North Side. It offers a blend of metropolitan and waterfront living as a shoreline neighborhood. Visit the historic Wrigley Field, home to the MLB’s Chicago Cubs, bike along Lake Michigan, or shop in the Southport Corridor retail district. You can hop on the Red/Brown Line Belmont station, express bus, or go down Lake Shore Drive for public transit.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most desirable neighborhoods because of its lakefront properties, short distance to the city’s free Lincoln Park Zoo, and home to DePaul University. Access the city on the Red/Brown/Purple Line Fullerton station. You can also travel on an express bus or Lake Shore Drive for faster travel.
Printers Row
Printers Row is a literary oasis in Chicago, offering two acres of walking paths along the Southbank Park and Riverwalk. It has deep roots in the printing and publishing industry, with historical 1880s architecture and landmarks that still stand today. It’s only a short walk or bike ride from the downtown Loop district, ideal for commuters. Printers Row’s unbeatable location has easy access to the Metra’s 59th St station and the Blue Line LaSalle or Red/Green Line Harrison stations.
Ravenswood
Ravenswood is a North Side neighborhood near beaches, restaurants, and Wrigley Field. It’s known for its “Malt Row” breweries, pubs, and nightlife within walking distance. You can catch the CTA Brown Line Park station or walk to the Metra UP North Line to head into Chicago.
River North
River North is one of the most sought-after places to live in and travel around Chicago. Located in the heart of the city, you can enjoy spectacular skyline views, modern skyscrapers, and contemporary architectural art at the Merchandise Mart. Travel on the Brown Line Merchandise Mart station, Red Line Grand station, express bus, or jump on the highway for city access.
South Shore
South Shore is a southern Chicago neighborhood offering both lake and skyline views. As the location for the South Shore Cultural Center, you can attend culturally rich programs and event spaces with the local community. Stroll along the harbor at Lake Michigan or hike along the lakefront trails. It’s conveniently connected to many CTA buses, the South Shore Metra station, and Lake Shore Drive in Chicago.
Popular Outer City Transit Stops for Getting Around Chicago Suburbs
Traveling from outside of Chicago? Here are some popular Chicagoland suburbs and their top destinations, with directions on how to get into the city.
Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights offers a blend of urban and suburban living. It’s only minutes from the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve and walkable to downtown Arlington Heights with local shops and restaurants. Located about 25 miles northwest of Chicago, you can make a day trip into the city via the Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest station.
Bloomingdale
Bloomingdale is a northwestern suburb with over 40 restaurants, delis, pubs, and steakhouses. Go shopping at Stratford Square Mall and Bloomingdale Court for the latest fashion, music, and technology. Visit the historic Olde Towne or enjoy the Bloomingdale Golf Club. Located around 27 miles west of Chicago, you can hop from the Roselle train station to Chicago Union Station.
Evanston
Evanston is the nearest North Shore suburb, sitting on Chicago’s borders, that meets diverse lifestyles. From eight museums to a downtown area and lakeside beaches, it offers something for everyone. For students enrolled at Northwestern University’s Evanston campus, this neighborhood is ideal if you’re a commuter since it’s in the same suburb. It conveniently connects to the Metra UP North Line or CTA Purple Line to get into Chicago and beyond. Many residents live in Evanston because it’s a beautiful college town that’s conveniently close to the city.
Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn is a highly rated village located 23 miles west of Chicago and ranked as one of the top 10 places to live in DuPage County. Discover downtown Glen Ellyn or stroll through the nearby Morton Arboretum. Simply hop on the Metra for a day trip into the city via the Glen Ellyn station to the Chicago OTC Station.
Mount Prospect
Mount Prospect is around 20 miles northwest of Chicago and received a Niche grade “A” as one of the best places to live in Illinois. Only a short drive to Woodfield Mall and Busse Forest Nature Preserve, this neighborhood offers urban and suburban living. Simply take the Union Pacific Northwest Line into the city via the Mount Prospect train station.
Mundelein
Mundelein is a delightful suburban neighborhood and is minutes away from Metra’s North Central train service for direct access to Chicago. Enjoy the Grand Illinois Trail, theaters, and local festivals in the heart of Lake County. From a 45-minute commute into the city to quiet suburban living and family-friendly festivals, Mundelein is perfect for those who want the benefits of living near Chicago without being in it.
Naperville
Naperville is nestled perfectly between two of the finest dining and shopping districts in the Chicagoland area. It’s an award-winning suburb for its tech job opportunities, agriculture, education, and cultural attractions. From a downtown area to the Naperville Riverwalk and a unique stone quarry, it’s a sought-after place to live for many reasons. Commuting into the city is a breeze with quick access to Metra’s Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) line, I-88, and I-355 highways.
Saint Charles
Saint Charles is a western Chicago suburb with a vibrant downtown area, only minutes from the Metra Geneva and Union Pacific-West station to Chicago OTC. Enjoy a round of golf at the Pottawatomie Park or shop locally at the Meijer and Geneva Commons Shopping Center.
Schaumburg
Schaumburg is a popular suburb located 30 miles northwest of Chicago. From world-class retail to abundant dining options, this desirable neighborhood offers quick access to Chicago. Conveniently located near Metra’s Milwaukee District West Line to Union Station and O’Hare Airport, out-of-state travelers can get into Chicago easily from Schaumburg.
Find Your Perfect Chicagoland Apartment Today
Now that you have a complete guide to getting around Chicago, are you interested in renting an apartment in the city or the suburbs? TLC Management Co. is the premier provider of apartment rentals in Chicagoland. We have over 30 properties offering diverse amenities and conveniences for your exact lifestyle.
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