Exploring a new city can be exciting, but getting around can be a challenge. Fortunately, Chicago offers a variety of transportation options that can make navigating the area a breeze. This guide provides some additional tips to help you easily travel around the city.

1. Explore Chicago on Foot, One Step At a Time

Chicago is a city that’s perfect for exploring on foot. The city is very walkable and a great way to get some exercise while exploring the city. Lace up your walking shoes and set out to explore the bustling streets, beautiful parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Stroll along the Lakefront Trail for stunning views of Lake Michigan or wander through Millennium Park to see the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, lovingly known as “The Bean.” During the cold winter months, take a walk through the Pedway, a system of underground tunnels and overhead bridges that link more than 40 blocks and 50 buildings of downtown Chicago.

2. Take a ride on the Chicago Public Transportation System(CTA)

Chicago has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and trains (known as the “L”). The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers an extensive network of buses and trains that can take you virtually anywhere in the city. You can use a Ventra Card to pay for fares on both buses and trains and get a unique perspective of the city as it glides above the streets.

3. Experience a Scenic Commute on a Chicago Water Taxi

Chicago’s river and lakefront are major highlights of the city, and water taxis provide a picturesque mode of transportation. Hop on a water taxi to explore the city from a different angle. You can travel between popular stops like Navy Pier, Chinatown, and the Chicago Riverwalk.

4. Pedal Your Way Though the City on a Divvy Bike

Explore Chicago at your own pace with the fantastic Divvy bike-sharing program. With thousands of bikes and hundreds of stations, renting a bike is easy and you can discover any of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. Simply locate one of the many Divvy stations throughout the city and rent a bike. Chicago also boasts numerous bike lanes and trails, making cycling a convenient and healthy way to explore the city. Haute Tip: Divvy offers student, corporate, and affordable transportation options for eligible residents. To learn more, visit divvy.com

5. Hop-on Hop-off Guided Bus Tours

For a guided tour of Chicago’s top attractions, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. These tours provide informative narration as you travel around the city, allowing you to disembark at various points of interest, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Willis Tower, or the Field Museum. Haute Tip: With companies likeBig Bus Chicago, you can hop on and hop off the bus to discover and explore the city, and you’re free to rejoin the tour as many times as you like within your ticket’s validity period.

6. Hail Rideshares or Taxis

Get around Chicago conveniently and safely with ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft or traditional taxis, all easily accessible through user-friendly apps.

7. Get In or Out of with the Metra Rail

If you’re interested in exploring the Chicago suburbs or nearby attractions like the Brookfield Zoo or Morton Arboretum, consider taking the Metra commuter rail. It provides easy access to destinations beyond the city limits.

8. Hop on a Pedicab for a Unique Ride Experience

Looking for a different way to discover Chicago? Try riding a pedicab! These bicycle-operated vehicles can take you on a relaxing tour of the downtown area or along the lakefront, giving you an exclusive view of the city. Pedicabs are human-powered public vehicles designed to transport passengers for a fee.

9. Drive Around The City At Your Own Pace

If you’re planning to get around Chicago by car, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to rental companies. Just keep in mind that parking can be a bit of a pain (and pricey!) in certain parts of the city.

Finally Thoughts on Getting Around Chicago

Chicago’s vibrant culture, neighborhoods, and landmarks await you, and there are countless ways to experience them all. From strolling to cycling, public transit to river cruising, there’s an option for every preference. With a Ventra Card, Divvy bike rental, or rideshare at your fingertips, you can make the most of your visit to this incredible city.

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