Getting Here, Getting Around

Chicago has been a major transportation hub practically since day one of its recognition as a destination at all. Jean Baptiste Point DuSable knew this when he set up his trading business along the Chicago River, capitalizing on the Native Americans and Europeans who used it as a thoroughfare. These days, it’s much more than boats that make their way into and out of the city. It’s easy to get to Chicago in a variety of ways. Fly into one of two international airports, take buses from locations far and wide, chug in by train from suburbs and cities around the country, or drive in from all directions on multilane (and often congested) expressways.

Once you’re here, you can easily navigate without wheels on the inexpensive bus and train system that runs 24 hours a day. Cabs are plentiful day and night in most areas, and you could even rent a bike to beat a path through town. If you’re attached to your car or need it for convenience sake (we’ve got kids, we know), it’s just as easy to drive around the city. Got a little lost? Don’t be shy about stopping someone on the street to ask for help. They’ll stop. And they’ll happily point you in the right direction. Get the lowdown on how to get around—and then get out there and enjoy.