joelst

My husband and I along with two friends are planning on driving to Chicago in October instead of flying from Huntsville, AL. We have done the math and it will be cheaper this way. Are we crazy or is the drive ok - Chicago traffic? We are staying downtown.

TwoFatFeet

Chicago traffic isn't bad til you get to northern Indiana. It also depends on day and time of day you'll be arriving.

Also, you definitely do not need a car in Chicago, but I personally like driving, so I like the idea.

Does your hotel cover parking fees?

TwoFatFeet

I just realized that the first paragraph I wrote is kind of stupid: I just meant traffic in general, not "Chicago" traffic.

Kassanna

Hi! - I just went to Chicago a couple of weeks ago, and I had debated about driving and flying....I decided to fly -and I am so glad that I did!! Parking is terribly expensive, driving is aggressive and if you don't know the city I definitely would not drive there.
There are taxi's, buses and trains that make it all very easy to maneuver. Plus we did a ton of walking!! Bring good shoes! But I would not ever drive there.
Where are you staying?

Citylghts

joelst, if you're staying at a downtown hotel parking will run you around $40 per night. As the previous post says, once you're in town you don't need a car as the city is very walkable and public transportation is plentiful.

You can purchase a visitor's transit pass that allows unlimited rides on all CTA buses and trains during a 24-hour period for $5. A two-day pass is $9.

ChicagoDallasGirl

I concur. Fly. Kassanna is right. I grew up there and driving is aggressive and even if you do know the city well, driving can be unpleasant.

Since you're staying downtown, the taxis and bus/L transportation would be best to get around. Your vacation will be much more enjoyable without the hassle of a car.

Either way, hope you have a fantastic time.
It's an awesome town!

placeu2

I live here and have a job that requires lots of driving so I know my way around very well. Given that, when I go into the city on weekends, I take the train.

Avoid driving if at all possible. While doing the math, consider tolls, parking as previously mentioned and the highest cost of fuel in the country.

Assuming unleaded, outside of town you may find 2.99/gal. In the downtown area, prepare for 3.50 plus.

travelinfool4u

Parking is really expensive in the city and finding a meter is a miracle! If you have never driven in Chicago I would suggest taking the train and using the busses to get around. I lived in that area and I knew my way around and use to drive once in a while but taking the trains and busses were so much easier. Its hard going to the countries 3rd largest city that you have never been to and trying to drive from place to place or park and pay outrageous prices! good luck, have fun I love Chicago great city