Chicago’s subway

The Chicago elevated train, the legendary L

It is impossible to visit Chicago without coming across its elevated train, the legendary L. Its trains, a little old school, run on raised metal structures that make all the charm of the city. The Chicago audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this symbol of Chicagoans' daily life, inseparable from the landscape of the Loop.

The second oldest network in America

Operated by the Chicago Transit Authority since 1947, the Chicago metro is among the oldest networks in the United States. Its elevated section, the Elevated Train, forms a loop around the business centre, which gave its name to the Loop district. The metal structures and the characteristic noise of the trains are part of the city's visual and sound identity.

What to see

Looking up at the metal bridges of the L, seeing a train pass above the streets, or taking a ride on the Loop is part of the typical experiences of Chicago. The old stations and the steel structures make up a cinematic setting. It is a lively and economical way to explore the city, close to the daily life of its inhabitants.

Practical information

The Chicago metro, the L, serves the entire centre, and its elevated loop surrounds the Loop, reachable on foot to admire its structures. It is a working transport network, operated by the Chicago Transit Authority; the lines, schedules and fares can be checked with the operator. Taking the L is one of the best ways to get around the city.

Why is the Chicago metro called the L?

Because a large part of the network is elevated, the Elevated Train, shortened to L; its loop around the business centre gave its name to the Loop district.

How long has the Chicago metro existed?

The network has been operated by the Chicago Transit Authority since 1947 and is among the oldest in the United States.