How to get around Chicago

CTA trains and buses are the default for most visitor trips. Rail is fastest along the main radial corridors; buses are often better for east-west movement and for neighbourhoods between L lines. The Loop is walkable, but the wider city is not compact.

The Blue Line runs around the clock between O'Hare and downtown. The Orange Line links Midway with the Loop during its operating day, and the airport estimates roughly 20–25 minutes for that journey. Check live service alerts before relying on the final train or a tight airport connection.

As checked on 4 October 2026, a CTA rail ride costs $2.50, a bus ride $2.25 and a one-day pass $5. The O'Hare rail entry fare is $5. Two transfers within two hours are included; use the current CTA fare page in case the tariff changes.

All CTA buses and rail vehicles are accessible, but not every station is. CTA reports 110 of 146 rail stations as accessible. Check elevator status and the exact entrance before travel, especially when a route depends on one transfer.

For weather, personal-security and emergency planning, see Practical Information for Chicago.

Walking and cycling

Downtown blocks are regular, yet the river, expressways and multi-level streets complicate direct routes. The lakefront path is useful for recreation and some north-south trips, but it does not replace the street network. Keep separate walking and cycling lanes clear where they are marked.

Metra and longer journeys

Metra is designed for commuter travel between central terminals, outer city districts and suburbs. It can be useful for Hyde Park and farther regional trips, but its fares and frequencies differ from CTA. Check the named line and return schedule rather than assuming tap-and-go city service.

Driving

A car is rarely useful for a central stay. Parking, event closures and congestion add cost, while expressways can be slow at peak times. Consider a rental only for a regional journey that public transport does not serve well, and collect it after the city portion of the trip.

Airport transfers

O'Hare and Midway are on different rail lines. A trip between them requires a downtown transfer and can take up to two hours. Leave a large margin when changing airports; it is not a short airside connection.