For those coming in from out of town, transportation in Chicago is probably one of your greatest concerns. If you are thinking about renting a car, keep in mind that parking is typically expensive and can be frustrating. We encourage everyone to use public transportation and take taxis. The hotels listed in the accommodations section are all located near the Historical Society and the Magnificent Mile. Following is information on various forms of transportation in the city.
Maps of
http://www.choosechicago.com/DOWNTOWNMAP.HTM
http://www.cityofchicago.org/Tourism/Downtown/#map
Public Transportation
Millions of people use Chicago's public transportation system every day. Its combination of buses and trains (elevated trains and subways) provide fairly thorough coverage. The Chicago Transportation Authority (CTA) serves the entire city of Chicago, as well as some suburbs; the Metra, a separately managed commuter rail system, is a far-reaching spoked system that serves the greater Chicagoland area. In all likelihood, you can ignore the Metra, unless you choose to stay in or visit the 'burbs.
All CTA buses and trains use the same computer-supported fare cards, which automatically track transfers. Fares are $1.50 each way, plus 30 cents for the first transfer within two hours. Additional transfers within two hours are free. A fare card can be used by up to seven people at one time. Visitor passes, allowing unlimited use of public transportation, are available for $5 (one-day), $9 (two-day), $12 (three-day), or $18 (five-day).
From O’Hare Airport to downtown, ride the Blue Line. This run takes approximately 50 minutes.
From Midway Airport to downtown, ride the Orange Line. This run takes approximately 35 minutes.
To plan your train and bus travel, use the CTA online map.
Taxis
O’Hare to downtown – approximately $30-35 ($19/person for shared ride)
Midway to downtown – approximately $20-25 ($14/person for shared ride)
Driving
Parking at most of the hotels in the city is $30/day.
Parking at the Chicago Historical Society is offered at a discounted rate of $5.50/day during museum hours. (Free parking passes during the wedding will be provided courtesy of the bride & groom.)
Online traffic reports are available on the City of Chicago website.
Train Stations
Chicago's Amtrak station, Union Station, is located in the western downtown area.
Airports
O’Hare International Airport (773-686-2200) handles more passengers than any other airport in the world. For visitors needing information or directions, airport information booths are located on the lower levels of the domestic terminals and on the upper and lower levels of the International Terminal. A foreign currency exchange is located on the lower level of the International Terminal.
Midway Airport (773-838-0600) is located at 5700 Cicero Avenue, 20 minutes from downtown Chicago. The one-building airport is divided into three terminals, A, B and C. The main lobby at the airport's center entrance is where the information booth and all vehicle pick-up services are available.
