Getting around Chicago, IL
Planning to travel in Chicago? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Chicago experience. Travel from O'Hare International Airport to popular hotels like Marriott Marquis Chicago using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations.
Ways to get around Chicago
Walking
Chicago’s well-organized grid system makes it an excellent city for walking. The intersection of State and Madison marks the starting point, with addresses indicating their distance from this central location. The city is divided into blocks, with eight blocks equating to a mile, making navigation straightforward. Additionally, the Chicago Pedway offers a network of underground tunnels connecting over 40 blocks in the Central Business District, providing shelter from harsh weather. While walking is convenient in many areas, the city’s size means some destinations may require additional transportation.
Biking
Biking in Chicago is a practical way to navigate the city, thanks to its extensive network of bike lanes and paths. The city offers a variety of routes that connect neighborhoods and major attractions, making it relatively easy to reach many destinations by bike. However, Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers, which might affect biking conditions. Additionally, the city’s flat terrain generally makes biking more accessible. For those looking for bike-sharing options, there are services available that can be accessed through popular apps.
Car
Driving in Chicago can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking options, especially in downtown areas. The city’s infrastructure supports car travel with a network of highways and roads, but congestion is common during peak hours. Parking can be expensive and hard to find, making it less convenient for short trips. Weather conditions, such as snow and ice in winter, can also affect driving safety and road conditions. While a car offers flexibility for reaching suburban areas, public transportation might be more efficient for navigating the city center.
Public Transit
Chicago’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient, making it a convenient way to navigate the city. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates a vast network of buses and rapid transit rail, covering the city and nearby suburbs. With 140 bus routes and 242 miles of rail track, reaching various destinations is straightforward. Additionally, Metra provides commuter rail services with 11 lines and 241 stations, while Pace offers suburban bus services. The infrastructure supports easy access to many areas, though weather conditions can occasionally impact travel times.
Train
Trains are a convenient way to get around Chicago, offering multiple routes that connect various parts of the city. The train system runs frequently, with schedules typically ensuring trains arrive every few minutes, making it easy to plan trips. The infrastructure supports efficient travel across the city, allowing access to many neighborhoods and attractions. While the train system is extensive, some areas might require additional travel methods to reach. Overall, trains provide a reliable and regular service for navigating Chicago.
Ferry
Ferries in Chicago, like the Chicago Water Taxi, offer a scenic way to travel between key locations such as Ogilvie/Union, Michigan Avenue, and Chinatown. These ferries run frequently, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes during peak times. They are pedestrian-friendly and allow bikes, making them a flexible option for travelers. The journey between stops typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes. While ferries provide a pleasant ride, weather conditions can affect service, and they are best suited for short distances along the river rather than city-wide travel.
Reserve a ride in Chicago with Uber
Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Chicago. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to O'Hare International Airport, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.
Rideshare and other services in Chicago, Illinois
Getting around Chicago without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride from O'Hare International Airport to Graceland West or head to another destination with the app. If you’re planning to travel in Chicago with a large group, request SUV to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Chicago.
Chicago-area airport car service
When your travel in Chicago takes you to an airport from Graceland West, West Roseland or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.
Choose the best ways to get around Chicago
Taxi in Chicago
Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when traveling in Chicago. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. You can request a ride from O'Hare International Airport, visit Cicero, or enter another place. Open the app and enter a destination to get around Chicago.
Electric scooters in Chicago
Renting a scooter is a fun, affordable way to get around the city. With electric power, you'll get to where you need to go with ease.
Popular destinations in Chicago, IL
Uber makes Chicago travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around Chicago request rides to Chicago Union Station more than any other spot.
Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Destination | Average price with UberX* |
|---|---|
Chicago Union Station | $19 |
Ogilvie Transportation Center Metra Station | $17 |
McCormick Place | $28 |
Navy Pier | $22 |
United Center | $24 |
Chicago taxis and other ride options
Car rentals near Chicago, IL
Frequently asked questions
- Is Uber available in Chicago?
Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Chicago anytime, 24/7.
- What’s the most affordable way to travel in Chicago?
With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Chicago. To get an estimated cost, sign in online or open the app and input your destination in the “Where to?” box. The price estimate for each ride option will appear. Scroll to explore what’s currently available.
- Can I get around Chicago without a car?
Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in Chicago, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other Chicago transportation options available in your app, too.)
- Can I rent a car in Chicago?
Sign in to your Uber account on Uber.com or open your Uber app to find out if car rentals are available in your city. If so, choose Rent and complete your reservation with a rental provider on Uber.com or using the Uber app. Then travel in Chicago or wherever the road takes you.
- How does Uber in Chicago help keep riders safe?
Your safety when traveling in Chicago is a top priority. In a few taps, you can access in-app features like the emergency assistance button to call authorities if you need help.
- Is Uber Eats available in Chicago?
Yes. Uber Eats offers pickup or food delivery in Chicago from your favorite restaurants. Browse lots of food delivery options, place your order, and track it by the minute.
Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.
Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.
After the driver has ended the trip, please report any feedback when rating your trip in the Uber app, visiting help.uber.com, or calling 800-664-1378.
All trips are limited to 3 hours. UberX, Select, UberXL, Uber Español, Assist, WAV, and UberPool trips that begin or end in Chicago are subject to a $0.50 City of Chicago surcharge. When these trips begin or end at a Chicago airport, McCormick Place, or Navy Pier, an additional $5 Chicago airports, McCormick Place, Navy Pier surcharge is applied. For more information about Uber Commute and Uber Commute drivers, please visit t.uber.com/commutefaq.
Rasier LLC is a transportation network provider that partners with ridesharing drivers. Rasier is a wholly owned subsidiary of Uber Technologies Inc.
*Sample rider prices are average UberX prices only and do not reflect variations due to geography, traffic delays, promotions, or other factors. Flat rates and minimum fees may apply. Actual prices for rides and scheduled rides may vary.
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