Chicago travel guide

Chicago travel guide

National Airports

Chicago is served by two major airports:

O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Located in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago, O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and is the largest airport serving the city. It has four terminals and is a hub for United Airlines.

Midway International Airport (MDW): Located on the southwest side of Chicago, Midway is smaller than O’Hare but still serves a significant number of passengers. It has one terminal and is a focus city for Southwest Airlines.

Trains in Chicago

Chicago has a well-developed train system that serves the city and its suburbs. Here are some of the main train lines in Chicago:

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): The CTA operates the “L” (short for “elevated”), which is a network of eight train lines that serve the city and surrounding suburbs. The “L” runs above ground and underground, and each line is designated by a color.

Metra: Metra is a commuter rail system that serves the Chicago metropolitan area. It has 11 lines that operate on over 500 miles of track, connecting the city to suburbs and other towns in the region.

Amtrak: Amtrak operates several train lines that serve Chicago, including the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, and Capitol Limited. These trains provide connections to cities throughout the country, including Los Angeles, Seattle, Boston, and Washington, D.C.

South Shore Line: The South Shore Line is a commuter rail system that connects Chicago to northwest Indiana and South Bend, Indiana.

Overall, Chicago has a comprehensive train system that provides many transportation options for residents and visitors.

Buses in Chicago

Chicago has a comprehensive bus system that operates throughout the city and suburbs. Here are some of the main bus lines in Chicago:

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): The CTA operates over 100 bus routes that serve the city and suburbs. The bus system connects to the “L” train system and provides connections to major destinations such as downtown Chicago, museums, and airports.

Pace: Pace is a suburban bus system that serves the surrounding suburbs of Chicago. It operates over 200 local and express bus routes that connect to the CTA and Metra train systems.

Greyhound: Greyhound is a national bus company that operates out of the Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Chicago. It provides connections to cities throughout the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

Megabus: Megabus is a budget-friendly bus company that operates out of Union Station in downtown Chicago. It provides connections to cities throughout the Midwest and other regions of the United States.

Overall, the bus system in Chicago provides a cost-effective way to travel around the city and suburbs, and it connects to other transportation options such as the “L” train system and Amtrak trains.

How to get to Chicago

Chicago is a major transportation hub, and there are several ways to get to the city. Here are some options:

By plane: Chicago is served by two major airports – O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) – which provide connections to cities throughout the United States and the world. Both airports have public transportation options such as the “L” train system and buses that connect to the city.

By train: Chicago is served by Amtrak, which provides connections to cities throughout the United States. Union Station in downtown Chicago is Amtrak’s hub in the city, and it provides connections to the “L” train system and buses.

By bus: Chicago is served by several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, which provide connections to cities throughout the United States. Bus terminals in Chicago include Union Station and the Greyhound Bus Station.

By car: Chicago is accessible by car via several major highways, including Interstate 90, Interstate 94, and Interstate 290. However, traffic in and around the city can be heavy, particularly during rush hour.

Overall, there are many options for getting to Chicago, including by plane, train, bus, and car.

What is the best time to travel to Chicago

The best time to travel to Chicago depends on your preferences and what you plan to do while you are there. Here are some things to consider:

Weather: Chicago experiences cold winters with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degree Celsius) and hot summers with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). If you prefer milder weather, the best time to travel to Chicago is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are typically in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius).

Events and Festivals: Chicago is home to many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Chicago Auto Show in February, the Chicago Blues Festival in June, and the Chicago Air and Water Show in August. If you are interested in attending a specific event or festival, check the dates and plan accordingly.

Crowds: Chicago is a popular tourist destination, and crowds can be heavy during peak travel times such as the summer months and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Budget: Travel costs can vary depending on the time of year. Summer months tend to be more expensive for travel and accommodations, while winter months may offer more budget-friendly options.

Overall, the best time to travel to Chicago depends on your preferences and what you plan to do while you are there. Consider the weather, events and festivals, crowds, and budget when planning your trip.

How to get around Chicago

Chicago has a variety of transportation options for getting around the city. Here are some of the most common ways to get around in Chicago:

Public transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates the “L” (short for “elevated”), which is a network of eight train lines that serve the city and surrounding suburbs. The “L” runs above ground and underground, and each line is designated by a color. The CTA also operates over 100 bus routes that serve the city and suburbs. The bus and train system connects to major destinations such as downtown Chicago, museums, and airports. The CTA offers several fare options, including single-ride tickets, unlimited ride passes, and reloadable transit cards.

Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Chicago. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-sharing app to request a ride. Taxis and ride-sharing services can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you are traveling with a group or need to get somewhere quickly.

Biking: Chicago has an extensive network of bike lanes and a bike-sharing program called Divvy. You can rent a bike from a Divvy station and return it to any other station in the city. Biking can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially in the warmer months.

Walking: Chicago is a walkable city, and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a great way to see the city up close and at your own pace.

Overall, Chicago has many transportation options for getting around the city, including public transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services, biking, and walking. Consider your budget, travel needs, and preferences when choosing the best way to get around in Chicago.

Accommodations in Chicago

Chicago offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

Hotels: Chicago has a large selection of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Many hotels are located in downtown Chicago, close to major attractions and public transportation. Some popular hotel chains in Chicago include Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals are a popular choice for travelers who want more space and privacy. Websites such as Airbnb and VRBO offer a variety of options, including apartments, condos, and houses. Vacation rentals can be a good option for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Hostels: Hostels offer budget-friendly accommodations, often with shared dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces. Many hostels in Chicago also offer private rooms. Some popular hostels in Chicago include HI Chicago and Chicago Getaway Hostel.

Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and Breakfasts offer a more personalized and intimate experience than hotels. Many bed and breakfasts in Chicago are located in historic homes and offer amenities such as home-cooked breakfasts and personalized service.

Extended-Stay Hotels: Extended-stay hotels offer fully equipped suites with kitchens and living areas. These types of accommodations can be a good option for travelers who plan to stay in Chicago for an extended period of time.

Overall, Chicago offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Consider your travel needs and preferences when choosing the best type of accommodation for your stay in Chicago.