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Chicago Transportation

Travel tips for Chicago with public transportation, roads and highways, and access from the main airports into the city.

Orientation

Chicago, Illinois is located in the American Mid-West on the shores of Lake Michigan. The downtown area is centered on 'the Loop' financial and business districts a few blocks inland from the lakeshore. Metropolitan Chicago, often referred to as Chicagoland, stretches north and south along the lakeshore approximately 40 miles and inland approximately 30 miles.

Chicago Road Transportation

Chicago lies at the northern end of historic route 66 and is well connected by the Interstate highway system. Interstates 55, 90, 94 and 290 all pass close to or lead to downtown and along with Lakeshore Drive can provide speedy access. However, Chicago is noted for heavy traffic and during rush hour long delays can occur. Within the downtown areas driving is eased by broad streets and avenues and the efficiency of a grid system. Taxi services are quick and inexpensive and, with the exception of during rain showers, quite easy to find.

Chicago Rail Transportation

Chicago's famous 'L' rumbles through downtown on elevated rail lines and extends out into the suburbs. The Loop is served by several lines, with the Blue Line extending to O'Hare International Airport and the Orange Line connecting to Midway Airport. The 'L' is operated by CTA who have maps and schedules on their web site.
Suburban commuter rail is provided by METRA that includes 12 lines that radiate from downtown at Union Station, Randolph Street Station, LaSalle Street Station and OTC. Visit the METRA web site for timetables and system information.

Find a Limousine Service

Chicago Air Transportation

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is located 20 miles northwest of Chicago's downtown area. Taxis reach the Loop in about 35 minutes when traffic is light to medium for a fare of around $30. Other alternatives include the Airport Express coach service, hotel shuttle buses and the CTA Blue Line.

Chicago Midway Airport is located 15 miles southwest of downtown. Taxi rides take about 25 minutes in light to medium traffic and cost around $25. The CTA Orange Line connects Midway with the Loop.

At both airports, taxis offer convenience and the CTA offers the low cost option at $1.50. Note though that downtown stations have stairs and turnstiles at their exits that can make handling luggage difficult.