Getting Around in Chicago with Kids – A Family Friendly Guide

akhilbiweb
Sep 22
3 min read

Chicago, the Windy City, is packed with family-friendly attractions, from the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium to Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Exploring this vibrant city with children can be a memorable adventure, but navigating buses, trains, and busy streets requires a little planning.

Whether you’re hopping on a bus, riding the ‘L’ metro, or booking a taxi with a child seat, this guide will help you manage family transport in Chicago safely, efficiently, and stress-free.

Buses in Chicago – Easy and Affordable

Chicago’s CTA bus network connects neighborhoods, downtown, and major attractions. Buses are a convenient way to travel with children, especially for routes not covered by the metro.

Children under 5 usually ride for free, while ages 6–12 often get reduced fares. During peak hours, buses can get crowded, so traveling mid-morning or early afternoon is usually easier for families.

Family-friendly stops include:

Millennium Park: Central location for parks, sculptures, and events
Shedd Aquarium: Accessible via multiple bus routes
Lincoln Park Zoo: Served by bus lines connecting downtown and north side neighborhoods

Metro in Chicago – Fast Connections Across the City

Chicago’s ‘L’ metro is a fast and reliable way to travel across the city while avoiding traffic. The Red, Blue, Green, and Brown lines link key neighborhoods, attractions, and transit hubs.

Metro tickets are easy to purchase at stations or via apps. Children under a certain age often travel free—check current “metro tickets Chicago kids” policies. Folding strollers during busy hours ensures safety and smooth boarding.

Key ‘L’ stops for family activities include:

Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren: Walking distance to Millennium Park
Roosevelt Station: Access to Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Soldier Field
Belmont Station: Close to Lincoln Park Zoo and conservatories

Tickets and Prices for Families

Understanding fares helps make family transport in Chicago stress-free. Children under 5 typically ride free on buses and metro, while ages 6–12 may qualify for discounted tickets.

Day passes or multi-ride passes can save money for families exploring multiple attractions in a single day. Purchasing tickets in advance or at official points ensures smoother travel with little ones.

Practical Tips for Traveling Chicago with Kids

Planning routes ahead using CTA apps or maps, packing water and snacks, and avoiding rush hours makes city travel easier. For longer trips, airport transfers, or rides with strollers and luggage, a taxi with child seat Chicago is often the most convenient option. Booking in advance with Taxibambino.com guarantees a certified child seat and a stress-free experience.

Where Taxis Can Make Life Easier

While buses and metro cover most central attractions, taxis with child seats are ideal for:

Airport transfers to O’Hare or Midway
Trips to neighborhoods or attractions outside the downtown area
Quick, comfortable rides when public transport schedules are tricky

With Taxibambino.com, you can reserve a taxi equipped with a certified child seat, ensuring safety and convenience without bringing your own seat.

FAQ – Family Transport in Chicago

Q: Are strollers allowed on buses and metro in Chicago? Yes, strollers are allowed, but folding them during busy times is recommended for safety and ease.

Q: How can I check if my child qualifies for free or reduced fares? Children under 5 usually ride free, while ages 6–12 may get discounts. Check CTA’s fare policies for the latest information.

Q: Is it safe to take taxis with children in Chicago? Yes, especially when booked through Taxibambino.com, which provides certified child seats.

Q: Are family or multi-ride passes available for buses and metro? Yes, CTA offers day passes and multi-ride options that can cover adults and children for sightseeing.

Q: Can I reach all major attractions using public transport with kids? Most downtown and nearby attractions are easily accessible via buses or the ‘L’. For longer trips, convenience with strollers, or airport transfers, taxis are often the best option.

Safety Isn’t Optional — It’s Essential

Traveling around Chicago with kids can be fun, stress-free, and safe when you know the city’s transport options and plan ahead. Whether hopping on a bus, taking the metro, or booking a taxi with a child seat, families can explore the city comfortably and confidently.

🚕 Book your Chicago taxi with child car seat now at Taxibambino.com — because your child’s safety should never be optional.