Getting Around Chicago


Transportation to and from Chicago O'Hare and Midway airports

Chicago's two major airports are served by a number of public transportation services, as well as taxi and rental car options. Find detail on these options based on your airport, hotel and other needs »


Transportation to and from McCormick Place

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) manages the three public transit operations in northeastern Illinois: The Chicago Transit (CTA), Metra commuter rail and Pace suburban bus. For information on routes and schedules, visit RTA's Web site or call their Transit Information Hotline at 312-836-7000.

Bus Services
Getting to McCormick Place is possible by using the city transit system. The Chicago Transit Authority provides the following bus service and runs approximately every 15 minutes. Drop-off is located at the main entrance to the South Building on Martin Luther King Drive:

  • From Downtown Chicago: The #3 King Drive bus runs downtown from morning to midnight daily. The McCormick Place West stops are at the southwest and northeast corners of the Indiana Avenue and Cermak Road intersection.
  • From Union Station: The #129 bus runs directly to McCormick Place, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Otherwise, from the corner of Canal Street and Jackson Blvd, take the #7 Jackson to Michigan Avenue, obtain a transfer to the #3 which will take you to McCormick Place.
  • From the Ogilvie Transportation Center (previously Northwestern Train Station): The #129 bus runs directly to McCormick Place, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Otherwise, take any bus to Michigan Avenue, obtain a transfer to the #3 King Drive which will take you to McCormick Place.

Metra commuter rail
Located on Level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse in the South Building, the Metra commuter railroad provides direct service within seven minutes to and from downtown Chicago. Service from the Randolph Station (nearby the Fairmont Hotel) to McCormick Place begins early morning, with more frequent pick-ups during rush hours. Shuttle connections can be made to the Metra system.

Taxi Services
More than 5,800 city taxis are at your service in Chicago. Facility direction signs and personnel at the Concierge Desk will direct attendees to gates that are designated for your event.

Shared Taxi Program
This transportation option allows up to four passengers to share a taxicab for a flat per person fare. This program covers hotels, restaurants and other attractions within these downtown boundaries: Roosevelt Road on the south, North Avenue on the north, Halsted Street on the west and Lake Michigan on the east. Shared rides are available two hours before an exhibit closes. The taxi starter or McCormick Place Security personnel will provide assistance to event guests.