Chicago, United States 🇺🇸
Status: ready
Transport Authorities
Getting Around
| Mode | Operator | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| metro | Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) | ‘L’ elevated train system with 8 color-coded lines (Red, Blue, Green, Orange, Pink, Brown, Purple, Yellow); frequencies every 5-10 min peak hours; Ventra card/app for fares. |
| bus | Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) | 140+ routes including 24/7 night buses (N-prefix); real-time planning via Ventra app. |
| train | Metra | Commuter rail to suburbs from Union Station. |
| train | Amtrak | Intercity rail from Union Station to Midwest and beyond. |
Paying for Transport
- Ventra Card: Reusable contactless fare card for CTA buses/trains; load via app/website; single rides ~$2.50 USD.
- Contactless Credit/Debit: Pay-per-ride on CTA via Apple/Google Pay or cards.
- Cash: Exact change on buses; not on trains.
Operating Hours
- Weekday: CTA 'L' & buses: ~4-5AM to 12:30-1AM; peak every 5-10 min.
- Weekend: CTA 'L' & buses: ~5AM to midnight; reduced frequency; night buses 24/7.
- Night service: CTA night buses (N-routes) operate 24/7.
Rideshare & Taxis
- Uber/Lyft Available Widely available; airport pickups; surge pricing during rush hours (7-9AM, 4-6:30PM).
Airport Connections
- metro - O’Hare (ORD) to Loop: ~45 min, $5 USD (Blue Line) via CTA
- metro - Midway (MDW) to Loop: ~25 min, $2.50 USD (Orange Line) via CTA
- taxi/rideshare - O’Hare (ORD) to Loop: 45-90 min, $40-70 USD
- taxi/rideshare - Midway (MDW) to Loop: 20-45 min, $30-50 USD
Live Delay Info
Local Tips
Get Ventra app for real-time tracking/schedules; allow extra time for rush hour traffic; Loop is walkable; use Blue/Orange Lines for airports; check weather for variable conditions; avoid displaying valuables.