Get on Transit
Public transportation is simply the easiest way to get from here to there. And the fares are fair.
The Northeastern Illinois Public Transportation Network consists of local and express bus services, trains, rapid transit, and transportation systems that are set up with advanced scheduling.
This overview can help you explore transportation options that link you to employment, education, shopping, community involvement and more. Find what works best for you!
Bus
Pace Suburban Bus
With more than 240 fixed-route services for Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties, Pace can get you to where you need to be.
Chicago Bus
The CTA Bus System provides 140 routes in Chicago, including several express and 24-hour services.
Pace Demand Response
Demand-response services that involve scheduling a request by trip. The fares, geographic boundaries and passenger eligibility vary by type of service.
Train
Commuter Rail Service
Metra can get you where you want to go in Northeastern Illinois. The 495-mile Metra system serves 241 stations in the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will.
Chicago 'L' Trains
The 'L' system has eight rapid transit routes and consists of 146 stations over approximately 224 miles of track. Two routes - the Red and Blue Lines - operate 24 hours, every day.
South Shore Line
Ride the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District's South Shore Line to Chicago and Northwest Indiana destinations. Please note that flagged stops mean during pickup, you must be visible to the conductor on the platform and to disembark, you must notify the conductor.
First-Time Rider Tips
- Review travel tips for Pace, CTA and Metra.
- Find schedules and maps for CTA, Metra and Pace!
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For live trip planning assistance, call the RTA Travel Information Hotline at
(312) 836-7000
- Get your Pace and CTA transit pass (Ventra card)
- There are many Park-n-Ride locations near transit stops.
- To apply for ADA Paratransit Certification.
Bikes on Buses and Trains
Pace, Metra and CTA all allow bikes on their buses and/or trains - make sure you familiarize yourself with the guidelines before taking your bike aboard.Pace Metra CTA trains CTA buses South Shore Line Amtrak
Service Alerts
Delays happen. Make sure you sign up for email alerts for up-to-date service information!
