Two of us are landing at O'Hare on a Thursday at 5:00pm. What is the easiest way to downtown? Will there be a line-up for taxi's? Will a taxi get stuck in traffic? Is the subway safe at this time? Other suggestions?

No safer time than rush hour to take the train in Chicago. Where is your final destination?

I've taken the train a couple times from the airport to the Michigan Ave area (not sure what the section is called). Takes about 50 minutes. Might be worth it during rush hour... and it's only $1.50.

A little scared of big city subways. Is it underground or above ground?

The OHare line is great -- and it's above ground for the first several stops (so you get to see the stopped traffic you are by-passing!) It eventually goes underground, but I wouldn't have any hesitation about using it at all, esp. at rush hour.

Strongly suggest you try the train. A cab ride in rush hour is probably going to cost you at least $30 and take forever.

Bill,
I strongly suggest taking the train. Its very safe and fast! What is your destination downtown and how long will you be here? At the airport before you get on the train, you can buy a visitor bus/train pass depending on how many days you are here. The train is both above and underground and its a great way for getting around out city.

You will be fine on the train. Please, take the train from O'Hare-the thought of trying to get downtown at 5 PM on a Thursday makes me ill. You can pick up the train from the airport down below and take it right downtown. So much easier, I can't even begin to explain!

Another vote for CTA's O'Hare line into downtown!! The train is incredibly convenient, clean and safe-- as long as you're not bringing loads of luggage. If we're talking about a large party with lots of stuff, break down and take a cab or shuttle van-- and prepare for the horrible traffic. If you're travelin' light-- the train's the only way to go!!

The drive will likely take 1 to 1 1/2 hours at that time (and it's only a 15 mile drive!). The train will take about 45 minutes or so. Where are you staying? You'll need to know what stop to exit and how far it will be to complete the journey.

I go into Chicago about twice a year and take the subway or "El" (short for elevated) downtown to Washington Station or so. Then I take a cab to my hotel. Very slick! The hardest part is hauling my luggage up the stairs from the platform and hailing a cab. There is only one line in so you won't get lost.

It's also a lot easier to take the El back to O'Hare. Get a map and take the Blue Line back toward O'Hare. As another poster mentioned part of the line is above ground and part is below ground.

The Blue Line train (O'Hare-downtown) is the hands down choice. Follow signs to CTA or "Trains to City" once you get your baggage. Take the train to the Clark/Lake stop, which is safe, well lit, and convenient to taxis.