With a mix of buses, trains, and bike-sharing options, public transportation in Chicago can get you to Pride in the Park Festival and back in no time! Here’s a quick list of ways to scoot around the city for folks that are coming in from out of town…
CTA Rail System – The “L”
The backbone of Chicago’s public transportation is the CTA’s elevated and subway train system, known as the “L” (short for elevated). With over 140 stations and eight color-coded lines (Red, Blue, Green, Orange, Brown, Purple, Pink, and Yellow), the “L” connects the city’s various neighborhoods and suburbs, making it one of the most comprehensive rail systems in the country.
The Red and Blue lines operate 24 hours a day, providing round-the-clock transportation between downtown Chicago, O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport, and many other prominent destinations.
CTA Bus System
With over 1,800 buses and 10,000 bus stops, the CTA’s extensive bus system complements the “L” train service to cover even more ground throughout Chicago. Buses run on both local and express routes and cater to flexible schedules, with most routes operating from early morning to late night.
Ventra Cards (CTA)
CTA offers a variety of fare payment options to suit your needs. Riders can purchase a Ventra Card, which is a reusable electronic card that can be loaded with stored value, daily or multi-day passes. Ventra Cards can be conveniently purchased from vending machines at “L” stations or online from the Ventra website. Fares can also be paid with contactless credit or debit cards, or through mobile payment apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. While on board a bus, you can also pay your fare using an exact cash amount.
Divvy Bike Share Program
For those who prefer a more active and eco-friendly mode of transportation, Chicago’s Divvy bike share program offers an alternative to exploring on two wheels. With over 600 stations and 6,000 bikes available, Divvy allows visitors to rent a bike for a single trip or purchase a 24-hour pass to access unlimited 3-hour rides. You can pick up a bike from any Divvy station and return it to a station near your destination, making it a perfect option for the festival if you’re not going too far.
Metra Rail System
If you’re planning to come in from the suburbs of Chicago, the Metra Rail system provides convenient commuter train services connecting downtown to over 200 stations! The Metra operates 11 lines, with many routes offering frequent daily service, and all trains are equipped with comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
When it comes to public transportation in Chicago, the options are plentiful and convenient. The CTA rail and bus systems, Divvy bikes, and Metra trains provide affordable, efficient, and enjoyable options for navigating the Windy City. Embrace the world-class public transportation that Chicago has to offer!
