What Is The Subway Called In Chicago? The Ultimate Guide To The "L"

If you are planning a trip to the Windy City, one of your first questions is likely about how to get around. You might find yourself wondering: what is the subway called in chicago? Unlike New York City’s "Subway" or London’s "Tube," Chicago’s rapid transit system has its own distinct identity.

To navigate the city like a seasoned local, you need to know the terminology, the layout, and the unique history of Chicago’s public transport. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the system, how it operates, and how you can use it to explore Chicago's world-class attractions.

Demystifying Chicago’s Transit: What Is the "L"?

The rapid transit system in Chicago is officially called the "L" (or 'L'). This famous moniker is short for "elevated," referring to the massive, historic iron structures that lift the train tracks high above the city’s streets and alleyways. Run by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the "L" is the third-busiest rail transit system in the United States, serving millions of riders every week.

While the system is globally famous for its elevated tracks, it is actually a hybrid network. Significant portions of the system run underground through downtown tunnels, while other sections run at grade level or in expressway medians. Despite these underground sections, locals and transit officials refer to the entire network—both above and below ground—simply as the "L".

The history of the "L" dates back to 1892, making it one of the oldest public transit networks in the nation. It began as a steam-powered line and quickly evolved into an electrified urban circulatory system. Today, it serves as the literal backbone of Chicago’s identity, framing the streets of downtown and knitting together diverse neighborhoods from Rogers Park on the far north side to 95th Street on the south side.

Subway vs. Elevated: How the "L" System Actually Works

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Chicago does indeed have a "subway" in the literal sense. When the elevated tracks in the downtown area became too congested in the early 20th century, the city constructed deep underground tubes to alleviate the traffic. Today, these underground segments are vital corridors for commuters and tourists alike.

The Red Line and the Blue Line are the only two routes that transition into underground subways as they pass through the downtown core. The Red Line runs beneath State Street, while the Blue Line runs beneath Dearborn Street. If you are standing at a street corner downtown and see a staircase descending into the concrete sidewalk under a CTA sign, you are looking at an entrance to Chicago's subway.

Once these trains exit the downtown core (historically referred to as the "Loop"), they emerge back into the daylight. The Blue Line rises to run in the median of the Kennedy and Eisenhower Expressways, while the Red Line transitions onto elevated structures as it travels north toward Wrigleyville and south toward Chinatown.

The "Other" Subway: The Famous Fast-Food Chain in Chicago

Because the term "subway" is highly searched, it is worth clarifying a common point of confusion for tourists. If you are walking down Michigan Avenue or through the Loop and ask someone for directions to "Subway," they might point you toward a fast-food sandwich shop rather than the nearest transit entrance.

Chicago is home to hundreds of Subway restaurant locations. From quick-service storefronts in historic buildings to units located directly inside major transit hubs like Union Station, the sandwich giant is ubiquitous throughout the metropolitan area.

If you are looking for transit directions, it is always best to ask for the nearest "CTA station" or "L station." This simple linguistic shift will ensure that helpful locals direct you to a train platform rather than a counter where you can order a footlong sub.

Navigating the Chicago "L" Lines

The CTA "L" system consists of eight color-coded transit lines. These lines radiate from the downtown Loop structure, which acts as a central hub. Understanding which color goes where is key to mastering the city's geography.

Pros and Cons of Riding the Chicago "L"

Using public transit in any major city comes with a unique set of trade-offs. The "L" is widely praised for its accessibility and coverage, but like any century-old infrastructure system, it has its challenges.

The Advantages (Pros)

• Highly Cost-Effective: At just $2.50 for a single train ride, the "L" is significantly cheaper than taking rideshares (like Uber or Lyft) or paying for downtown parking, which can easily exceed $50 per day.
• Avoids Traffic Congestion: Chicago traffic is notorious, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. The "L" bypasses highway gridlock entirely, offering predictable travel times.
• Airport Connectivity: Unlike many American cities, Chicago offers direct rail connections from both major airports (O'Hare via the Blue Line and Midway via the Orange Line) straight into the heart of downtown.
• Scenic Architecture Views: Riding the elevated lines, especially the Brown and Green lines, offers unparalleled, close-up views of Chicago's famous historic architecture.

The Drawbacks (Cons)

• Crowding During Peak Hours: During morning commutes or major sporting events (such as Cubs games at Wrigley Field), trains can become incredibly packed.
• Weather Exposure: Because most platforms are elevated and outdoors, riders are exposed to Chicago's harsh winter winds and humid summer heat while waiting for trains.
• Aging Infrastructure: Occasional delays due to track maintenance, signal upgrades, or extreme weather can disrupt travel schedules.

How to Ride the Chicago "L": A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you have never ridden an elevated train or a subway before, the process can feel intimidating. Follow these simple steps to travel through Chicago like a pro.

Step 1: Get Your Ventra Card

Chicago uses a contactless fare system called Ventra. You can purchase a plastic Ventra Card at vending machines located inside every "L" station. Alternatively, you can download the Ventra App to your smartphone and add a virtual transit card to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay. You can load cash value onto the card or purchase unlimited-ride passes (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day passes are highly recommended for tourists).

Step 2: Navigate the Station and Tap In

Look for the color-coded signs at the station entrance indicating which lines serve that stop. Once inside, locate the turnstiles. Tap your Ventra Card, smartphone, or contactless bank card against the blue circular reader on top of the turnstile. Once the screen displays "Go," push through the gate.

Step 3: Find Your Platform and Board

Look for directional signage hanging from the ceiling. Trains are designated by their color and their final destination terminal (for example, "Red Line to Howard" or "Red Line to 95th"). Stand behind the blue safety strip on the platform edge. When the train arrives, let passengers exit the car completely before you step on board.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago’s Transit System

Is the Chicago "L" safe to ride?

Yes, the "L" is generally safe, especially during daytime hours when commuter volume is high. However, like any major metropolitan transit system, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure, avoid empty train cars late at night, and try to sit in the front car near the train operator if you are traveling alone during off-peak hours.

Does the Chicago "L" run 24/7?

Both the Red Line and the Blue Line operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This makes Chicago one of the few cities in the world to offer round-the-clock rapid transit. The other color-coded lines have varying schedules, typically operating from early morning until late evening (usually around 1:00 AM).

Can you transfer between different lines for free?

Yes. You can transfer between different "L" lines for free at designated transfer stations (such as Clark/Lake, State/Lake, or Jackson) without exiting the turnstiles. If you do exit a station and need to transfer to a bus or another line, a transfer fare costs just $0.25 within a two-hour window of your initial tap.

What is the difference between the "L" and the Metra?

The "L" is an intra-city rapid transit system serving the city of Chicago and its immediate, inner-ring suburbs. The Metra is a commuter rail system designed to transport travelers over longer distances between downtown Chicago and the outer suburbs. Metra trains are larger, double-decker diesel trains that run on precise schedules rather than at frequent intervals.

Plan Your Chicago Adventure Today

Now that you know exactly what the subway is called in Chicago and how to navigate the historic "L" system, you are fully equipped to explore everything the city has to offer. Skip the expensive rental cars and stressful traffic. Grab a Ventra card, head up to the elevated platforms, and experience the incredible sights, sounds, and neighborhoods of Chicago from the best seat in the city.