Chicago Public Transportation

How good is public transit in Chicago?

Chicago actually has a decent public transit system, especially when compared to Los Angeles. Unlike Los Angeles, the Chicago infrastructure survived the auto and rubber boom better than did California. In no small part this is due to the more tightly spaced residential networks connected to the city center. It was easier for Chicago to connect its suburbs to the city center, and interconnect the downtown area, with public transportation than it has been for Los Angeles, especially of late.

Chicago transit authority

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the governing body responsible for the progress of public transportation in Chicago, has made great strides of late with its investment in Chicago rail and improving the quality of its bus networks. They've also invested in various marketing initiatives to encourage people to take public transit. Leading up to the recession, before oil prices plummeted back down, the high cost of gas was helping bring commuters back to public transit from their dependence on cars as a method of transportation.

Chicago's slow zone elimination

The Chicago Transit Authority rail system consists of 224 miles of track. A year ago (October, 2007), up to 22 percent of the rail system was considered a slow zone. Fortunately, thanks to the replacement of wood rail ties and old tie plates with recycled plastic ties, concrete ties, and insulated tie plates, slow zone congestion has been brought down to under 7 percent overall.

Which rail lines are affected by the slow zone elimination program?

The following rail lines are affected and may experience downtimes over weekends and in the middle of the night:

• Blue Line - the O'Hare branch contained up to 62 percent slow zones, which have now been reduced to under 3 percent. A trip to O'Hare that used to take over an hour can now be done in under 3/4 hour.
• Red Line - the North Side Main Line and State Street Subway have been targeted, allowing trains to travel faster and commuters to travel less.
• Brown Line - the Ravenswood branch was targeted, eliminating just under a mile of slow zone.

For more information, visit the slow zone elimination program page on the CTA website.

Chicago Transit Changes in Fares for 2009

The table below summarizes the fare changes for all CTA transit lines, beginning in January, 2009:

1. Transfer fare allows two additional rides within two hours of the first boarding
2. For every $20 purchase of pay-per-use fares, $22 of value is added to the card
3. Available through participating universities only; price change effective 2009 Fall Term
4. Reduced fares offered to eligible customers only
5. Only the 30-Day and the new CTA/Pace 7-Day passes will be valid on Pace beginning January 1, 2009.

Finding your way around Chicago's Public Transportation System

So you've decided to make the trees in your neighborhood a little more happy by using public transit and forgoing your gas guzzler whenever possible. Great :) But what if you have little to no experience using public transit? How to get started? There are several ways to start planning your trip:

• Use Google Transit - you'll be able to get step-by-step transit directions, find transit stops in your area, and view station information and schedules.
  • You'll start by entering a start address and a destination address. Then you can select if you're leaving or arriving, as well as a date and time. The result will show you your directions and travel time on foot as well as by Chicago transit. You can use this to plan your whole route in advance.
  • Google Transit is constantly expanding its coverage, but for now rest assured that the majority of the central Chicago transit network is covered.
• Chicago's RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) has a trip planner - use it to find schedules and travel times for CTA, Metro, and Pace transit networks.
  • The RTA also has a hotline you can call (the Travel Information Center) to get more information and to help you with your travel plans:
    • Within Chicago (any area code) dial: 836 - 7000
    • Outside Chicago dial: (312) 836-7000
    • For TTY dial: (312) 836-4949

Using Public Transportation to Make the Most of Your Chicago IL Vacation - Update Published January 21, 2012

Chicago IL is a great place to visit. In fact, you can visit any time of year to have a memorable trip that you and your family will enjoy. The people in Chicago are friendly overall, and known for their wry wit and Midwestern values, making it one of the world’s most hospitable cities. You can also enjoy a wealth of diversions while you are there, like the lovely, and incredibly breathtaking Chicago skyline.

Because of all of these great qualities, It is no wonder Chicago IL has been romanticized in song, poetry, TV and film. The city is popularly known as the Windy City, and this is not metaphoric. The weather is known to change dramatically, as it pleases. There are some days that you might even need an extra umbrella just in case the one you have is crushed by that day’s gale-force winds.

The Shedd Aquarium

One of the attractions that you definitely should not miss out on while you are in Chicago IL is the Shedd Aquarium. It attracts almost 2 million visitors every year and is also one of the premier aquariums in the United States.

The Shedd Aquarium has an interesting historical background which only adds to the fascination that it creates for many visitors. Its history actually goes back to 1924, when John Graves Shedd, who was a prominent businessman, made a 2 million dollar donation to the city that he loved, Chicago IL. Later on, he made another donation of a million dollars that went into the construction of the aquarium through the Shedd Aquarium Society -- a society that John Shedd formed for this very purpose.

The Shedd Aquarium Society selected a location that was near the lake for the aquarium, commissioning the architectural firm that designed the building. The aquarium was opened to the public in 1929, and visitors began to stream in even before the fish arrived. An expansion in 1971 saw the addition of the Caribbean Reef and another 1991 expansion saw the opening of the magnificent oceanarium. This is the worlds’ largest marine mammal habitat whose opening doubled the size of the aquarium. Other exhibits that were opened later include the Amazon Rising in 2000 and the Wild Reef in 2003.

The Caribbean Reef is considered the aquarium’s centerpiece, and is a circular tank holding 90,000 gallons of water. Here, you will get to see sharks, sea turtles, stingrays and ells as well as an assortment of tropical fish. You will also get to watch a diver feed the fish, and have your questions answered while the diver is underwater during feeding time, an event that takes place at least 5 times a day. There are 70 species of animals here, and you will be viewing the reef life from glass windows. The aquarium also has several cameras inside, allowing visitors to have the opportunity to view the creatures up-close.

The Waters of the World exhibit explores various world waterways in 90 habitats. Thousands of animals from lakes, rivers, seas and oceans can be found here. These include the giant octopus, bluegills, moon jellies and shrimp too.

On the other hand, the Amazon Rising exhibit is teeming with creatures that include frogs that are toxic, the biggest spiders you have ever seen, piranhas, and, if you are up to it, you can get a glimpse at a real live anaconda. Iguanas and catfish are also part of the Amazon Rising exhibit; animals you have probably only seen on TV or books. Grab this opportunity and get to see them in the flesh.

The Oceanarium exhibit aims to recreate the peaceful rainforest of the Pacific Northwest. It has huge soaring windows that overlook Lake Michigan. These window views may eventually get you dreaming and believing that you are on the ocean.

In addition, you will get to see sea stars, dolphins, beluga whales and otters that you would typically find in the area’s tidal pools and in the coves. The oceanarium will be a trip highlight without a doubt, and because it is significantly large, the dolphins will entertain you as they show off their skills. You can choose whether to watch them from the underwater viewing gallery, or watch them from the amphitheater, where many choose to watch the shows.

The Wild Reef exhibit features a display of live coral, with more than 20 sharks swimming in it. The exhibit, which shows the ecosystem of a Philippine coral reef, is housed in an underground wing.

When you visit, you can learn about the fresh water animals of the Americas while you are in the Tropical Water Gallery, and learn about other exotic animals in the African, Asian and Australian galleries.

In addition, you can also view the not-so-exotic animals that are found in the Great Lakes such as the river otters of the Illinois Lakes and Rivers Gallery. If possible, ensure that you buy the All Access Pass and remember that while at the aquarium, flash photography is not allowed. You may also want to avoid strollers or bulky bags as they may prove difficult to maneuver among the huge crowds.

During the summer, it is advisable for you to make your trip to the aquarium early if you are interested in avoiding the long lines that are common frustrations for guests of the aquarium.

If you are taking a bus to the Shedd Aquarium, take a south-bound CTS bus line number 146 (Marine-Michigan). If taking a train, take the Red Line CTA train south to Roosevelt, and then take a Museum Campus trolley or transfer to the CTA bus number 12. There are several lots on the Museum Campus where you can park your car, but since most of them fill up quickly, you should probably go for the main parking garage especially if you did not arrive early. The aquarium opens on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm, and on weekends from 9 am to 6 pm, and it does not open at all on Christmas Day.

The Navy Pier

Another of Chicago, Illinois’ most popular attractions is the Navy Pier, which features over 50 acres of promenades, parks and attractions that visitors and residents alike continue to enjoy. You should also take the time to visit some of the most amazing restaurants, and take in the epic views that Lake Michigan and the Chicago city’s skyline provide.

The family friendly atmosphere also makes this an ideal spot for families visiting Chicago IL. The Navy pier has enjoyed a remarkable evolution -- having been originally designed for shipping and recreational purposes. The facility is now a premiere entertainment center that Chicago IL can brag about.

Since it first opened in 1916, the Navy Pier has been a Chicago IL landmark that even served as a military training site during the World Wars. Now, visitors to the new Pier, (which is the product of new architectural design), get a variety of attractions and buildings that they can enjoy.

The Gateway Park covers 19 acres and has been developed to enhance the Chicago IL lakefront. You will fall in love with the aesthetic and dramatic entrance to the Pier, while enjoying the convenience of the vehicle and pedestrian separation. Also make sure you see the spectacular fountain with its computerized jet streams.

The Family Pavilion houses a 440 seat large-screen IMAX theater, the largest flat movie screen available. When you visit this theater, you can watch both 2D and 3D movies. The Pavilion also houses the Chicago Children’s Museum as well as many exciting restaurants and retail shops.

The Crystal Gardens are a botanical park that provides families with a venue for their activities and special receptions. The South Arcade is close by and also has its own shops, restaurants and attractions including the more popular Amazing Chicago and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

East of the Family Pavilion is the Navy Pier Park, an outdoor landscaped area where you get to take a ride in the Ferris wheel that goes 150 feet into the air, a merry-go-round, a high-flying swing ride and a miniature golf course. The park is also where you will find the 1500-seat Skyline Stage that features musical performances. You will find artists from all genres including pop, classical, blues and jazz. You can also have your fill of eclectic music, rock and reggae as well as live performances of dance, theater, comedy and film.

The only performance pavilion built directly on Chicago’s lakefronts is the Pepsi Skyline Stage that was opened in 1994. Here, you get spectacular views of Chicago IL. This is also a theater where local and national artists are showcased in a suitable and intimate setting with the full range of audio systems and special effect capabilities.

Dock Street runs the length of the pier’s south dock and is meant only for pedestrians, joggers and bicyclists. As you stroll along Dock Street, be prepared to be entertained by the jugglers, mimes, stilt walkers, singers and comedians that perform throughout the seasons.

The Festival Hall which covers more than 170,000 square feet is where exhibitions, trade shows, art shows and meetings of all kinds are held. The Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows is the first museum in the United States that is dedicated to stained glass windows only. Both secular and religious windows are showcased here, with Victorian, Prairie, Modern and Contemporary categories included.

If you enjoy boat cruises and architecture tours, then the Navy Pier is where you want to be during your Chicago visit. The Navy Pier is home to some of Chicago’s most popular tours and cruises. For instance, there are always special seasonal tours available, along with daily architectural and skyline tours that combine fascinating narration about the history of Chicago, with fun facts about some of the famous landmarks that you will find in the city.

To get to the Navy pier, you can take the CTA bus lines numbers 29, 65 or 66 to Navy Pier. If you are getting there by car, take the Lake Shore Drive north to the Illinois Street exit and then take a right to Navy Pier. There is onsite parking garage that can accommodate up to 1600 cars.

Millennium Park

At Millennium Park, you get to discover a world class collection of architecture, art and landscaped design. This notable Park is the backdrop for hundreds of cultural programs that you can enjoy at no cost to you whatsoever. These programs include concerts, exhibitions, family activities and tours. Here, you will also a find a town square in the heart of Chicago that is lively and unlike any other. This is one of the highlights of Chicago IL, and even rivals the Lincoln Park Zoo as one of the city’s best free attractions. Admission is free, and the park is open daily from 6 am to 11 pm.

If you appreciate rich architectural design, then the BP Bridge that connects the pier to the Daley Bicentennial Plaza will catch your eye. This might even be the first stop on your tour, since it is located right next to the Monroe Street parking garage.

The bridge measures 925 feet in length and because it is high, you will want to have your camera with you to take pictures of the great views you get of the surrounding areas. The outer part of the bridge is made of stainless steel with a brushed silver look. It is linked to the Pritzker Pavilion. This Pavilion rises up to 120 feet and has a look that gives off a feeling of ribbons being blown by the wind. In addition, this setting is host to a number of free music events. The Pavilion can seat 11,000 people and has multiple speakers that are very effective in providing sound equivalent to that of an indoor concert.

The Lurie Garden, covering 2.5 acres is a surprisingly tranquil spot. This is as a result of the area being enclosed on two sides by a hedge that is 15 feet high. The hedge is meant to protect the perennial garden from pedestrians while at the same time symbolizing Carl Sandburg’s description of Chicago IL as the City of Big Shoulders. Another popular spot here is the hardwood footbridge that runs over shallow running water along the east side, where people sit on the edge and dip their toes in the water during the hot summer. Some of the unforgettable features in the Lurie Garden include:

4) The Extrusion Plaza: it connects the south and north ends of the park

5) West Hedge: a topiary feature that is meant to represent a classical Greek story

6) The Light Plate: has a bright and clean landscape that gives off a modern feel

7) Dark Plate: pays homage to the garden’s history, and is full of dense vegetation

Another attraction in the Millennium Park is the Cloud Gate, which locals refer to as the Bean. This is a public sculpture, with the shape of a bean that weighs over 110 tons. It is 33 feet high and 66 feet long, and was created with numerous individual stainless steel plates. The seamless surface is the result of thousands of hours that were spent polishing it. In addition, the sculpture also looks like a giant drop of liquid mercury, and the mirrored surface gives off an amazing reflection of the Chicago IL skyline. When you are here on a bright clear day, you will definitely be taken in by the view. Visitors are allowed to walk underneath the gate, and kids especially love the fun house mirror effect that is created by the sculpture. The popularity of the Cloud Gate has made it one of the more popular photo opportunities in Chicago IL, so ensure that you have your camera with you.

The Crown Fountain is the pride and joy of Chicago IL; a tribute to the people of Chicago by Jaume Plensa, a Spanish artist. The fountain is inspired by the historic gargoyle fountains with water sprouting out of their mouths. The fountain is made up of two glass-block towers that stand 50 feet tall and display rotation video images of 1,000 Chicago IL residents. The faces smile for a few moments and then the lips part for the pipe that is embedded in the screen to send out a large water stream. During the transition between faces, the tower goes black and there is a waterfall that rains down the sides of the tower. If you have kids with you, prepare beforehand as they will probably end up dripping wet.

During the winter season, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opens up, drawing more than 100,000 skaters every year. The best part is that it is free and open to the public; all you may need is your skate rental. The ice rink is situated between Washington and Madison streets, on Michigan Avenue and below the Cloud Gate. The rink is especially beautiful after dark, and you will enjoy the view of the tall buildings to the west and the Cloud Gate’s reflection to the east. The skating season usually starts shortly before Thanksgiving and runs through March.

If you are arriving downtown through Union Station, take CTA’s bus number 151 directly to Millennium Park. Whatever you choose to do, it is important to plan out your Chicago IL visit so that once you are there, you do not have to lose a lot of time deciding what to do or how to get there. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the modes of public transportation so that you will not have a difficult time finding your way around.