Chicago Area Public Transit Options

With gas prices on the rise, many people are looking to sources other than private vehicles to transport them from one place to another. As a resident of a city with an excellent public transportation infrastructure, I opt for using public transit whenever possible. If you live in or are visiting the Midwest, especially Chicago, and are looking for alternative means of intercity transportation, take a look at the list I've compiled! Most of these companies pass through Chicago. Note: this list is not comprehensive, but I've done my best to make it as inclusive as possible.

Existing service

Bus service:

Most people are familiar with Greyhound for providing intercity bus service. Greyhound has the most extensive network in America, including in the Midwest. Greyhound buses tend to be on time, reliable, safe, and relatively clean. You can purchase tickets either online or at stations.

Another less well-known bus service in the Midwest is Megabus . Originating in Great Britain, Megabus has been operating in the Midwest since 2006, offering discounted bus prices to its customers. Usually, the earlier you purchase your ticket, the cheaper it is. With its Midwest hub in Chicago, Megabus offers express service to several major Midwestern cities.

Burlington Trailways is a family owned and operated corporation based out of Iowa. It operates throughout Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, and Colorado. You can look up schedules and purchase tickets online.

Jefferson Lines is another intercity bus service, based out of Minneapolis. It operates throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas. Schedules and tickets are available online.

Indian Trails is a bus service operating most extensively in Michigan's lower peninsula, but also in the upper peninsula, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. You'll want to call ahead for more information.

Rail service:

Amtrak holds the monopoly on rail service throughout the country, including throughout the Midwest. Amtrak is quite comfortable, safe, and clean. Though it can sometimes be quite late due to its secondary status to commercial trains and track maintenance, it is by far the best option for long-distance travel. Its amenities are quite nice, such as dining services and decent toilets. You can purchase tickets either online or at stations.

Ferry service:

The S.S. Badger offers passenger and car ferry service between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, between May 9 and October 12 of each year. Though it does not pass through Chicago, it offers an important service across Lake Michigan that saves passengers time and money!

The Lake Express also offers passenger and car service. It connects the cities of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Muskegon, Michigan. Though this ferry service also does not pass through Chicago, its importance to Midwestern travel is key.

Future proposed service:

The Midwest High Speed Rail Association is a visionary organization, working to connect the Midwest via rail. Based in Chicago, it is leading a number of initiatives in various states, including Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin. It has made the Illinois portions of the Midwest network its highest priority, due to Chicago's central role in the Midwestern rail infrastructure.