Chicago Public Transit Tips
It's deceptively easy to get around Chicago without a car. Heck, I live here and I don't own one. But if you're touring the city, the idea of public transit can be daunting if you are unfamiliar with it. I've put together a few tips for those of you willing to plunge into the world of buses and trains.
1. Know the lingo. The subway here is called the "El" because most of the system is on elevated tracks. The "CTA" is the Chicago Transit Authority. Metra is the suburban rail system. Pace is the surburban bus system. If you stay in metro Chicago, you're going to rely on CTA buses and the El.
2. Get a map. You can get a free transit system map at most El stops. The CTA has a great website, as well. Most maps of Chicago have a small inset map of the El. When travelling, I rely heavily on Google maps and Mapquest to research prior to setting out. Once you get a feel for the grid that Chicago has, it gets a lot easier to navigate your direction of travel. For those of you without PC access when travelling, I suggest a Streetwise brand map - they are laminated and small enough to handle with the right information. I carry one of these with me all the time (even natives have secrets!). On buses and trains, it is important to know which general direction you are headed in and which stop is yours. It's not the end of the world if you miss your stop, but it sure is nice to have a general idea of where you are going! Chicago is a BIG city. It's easy to get lost if you aren't paying attention.
3. Get a CTA pass. Bus fare in Chicago is currently $2 cash, $1.75 if you use a fare card. El fare is $2. (Transfers between buses is free with a fare card, transfer from train to bus is $0.25.) All buses and trains require exact change. You can save yourself a ton of time with a 1-day, 5-day, or monthly pass, or you can load up a fare card at any El station with any amount you choose. You can buy the fare card at any El station, or at most Currency Exchanges around the city. Some grocery stores also sell CTA passes.
4. Plan your trip. Another part of the CTA website that I rely on heavily is the Trip Planner. This thing is unparalleled in the major cities I have visited. It can be a lifesaver, and a huge time saver.
5. Smile! I realize that most people in the U.S. do not use public transit every day. Let me be the one to warn you: at rush hour (7-9am, 5-7pm weekdays), buses and trains get very crowded. The people on the train and bus with you just want to get home. Be courteous, smile, make room - all of these things will go a long way to helping you blend in to the local surroundings.
Have any stories or tips you've tried for using the public transit system in a new city? Leave a comment! I'd love to hear from you!
