Fe_Fi_Fo_Fum

Hi folks - I am going to be staying with my husband in DeWitt Place in the Gold Coast area of Chicago from June 3rd to 6th. I will be travelling in from O'Hare on the EL as far as Chicago station. My question is what travel card people would recommend us to purchase. We intend to visit the Art Institute, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, John Hancock Observatory, take the Architectural boat tour (CAF), shop on the Mag mile and generally potter about. Not knowing how much I am likely to need public transport to access all of these things from my base in Dewitt Place (in addition to eating out each night) it is difficult to assess which card is best. Is it a 3 day pass for $14 or a prepaid transit card? I am leaving Chicago by train from Union Station but it is likely that we will take a cab to there from where we are staying. All helpful tips appreciated! Thanks a million.

Citylghts

A pre-paid card is just stored cash. Each time you use it, the farebox will deduct $2.25. If you'll be taking more than three rides on CTA buses or trains per day, get a pass.

Fe_Fi_Fo_Fum

I think for handiness of getting around the pass would be best, it's a very small amount of money really but it's just a pity there isn't a four day pass! Thanks for the feedback.

AAFrequentFlyer

John Hancock Observatory

Don't do that. For the same price of buying a ticket to the observatory you can get a a drink at the Signature Lounge at the 96th, and enjoy the same views from one floor below. The observatory charges you for the elevator ride and use of their facility, the 96th Lounge elevator is free and you get the same views and have a drink, food while enjoying the views.

http://www.signatureroom.com/Signature-Lounge/

Citylghts

A "day" is 24-hours from the first use. So, a 3-day pass may work. If not, you can purchase either a 1-day pass or just a regular fare card for your fourth day.

Fe_Fi_Fo_Fum

Thanks Citylghts, that's good to know, 3 days might suffice. What I can't really judge is whether I will need to take that many buses/trains as we are good walkers and I think our accommodation is well located to some areas of interest. We might decide to go the Signature Lounge route instead of the observatory but still it's always nice to be at the VERY top isn't it?