When visiting Chicago, you probably have all sorts of activities you want to take in and locations to see. From the Navy Pier to the Field Museum, there simply is much to see and do. Of course, to do this, you need to find ways to get around Chicago. Thankfully, the public transportation in Chicago is far better than most other major cities inside of the United States (with the exception of New York), so you never have to worry about how you are going to get somewhere or what you are able to do when you arrive.
Rent a Car
In short, don't do it. Unless there is some reason that you need to have a car, such as driving to locations outside the city, you really don't and probably shouldn't rent a car. Driving through the city is about what you would expect for a city of nearly three million individuals. However, outside of that, it is actually parking the car that makes it so much more terrible. There are early bird parking rates in local garages that allows discounted rates. However, you are going to end up spending $40 a day just to park your car, so it really isn't worth having a car in the city.
Subway
The subway is the best way to get around the city. Also referred to in the city as the "L", for elevated, the subway moves from underground to above ground throughout the city. For a few dollars, you are able to hop onto the car and make your way to just about anywhere. The Blue Line has a direct link to O'Hare and will take you to the heart of downtown straight from the airport. You don't even have to go outside until you step off the subway when you arrive at the airport, which is great when in the dead of winter.
Taxi
For quick and immediate service, taxis are the way to go. You pay either a per quarter mile rate or time rate, depending on traffic and where you are going. This is going to be more expensive than taking the subway, but for going out at night or when you don't want to walk to the nearest subway, taking a taxi is an excellent method for getting around the city.
Bus
Buses do offer the least expensive method for traveling throughout the city. While it is going to take longer than the subway and it might be a bit tricky learning the bus route of a new city, you can get to just about any location you might want in Chicago, plus much closer than what you would if you decided to take the subway.
There are many ways to get around in Chicago. While some are far better than others (again, don't rent a car unless you really need it), you do have your choice of options and there really is nothing better than making your way throughout the city and seeing all of the fantastic sights.
