O-Hare to downtown hotel - best option for me?

Question

I'm arriving at O'Hare on a domestic flight at 2:13 PM on a Monday. I'll be solo and will have a carry-on (small backpack) and a full size rolling suitcase.

I'm booked at the Citizen M hotel which I understand is not far from the Clark/Lake station on the blue line. But, do I really want to wrangle my luggage on the train? The prospect doesn't sound appealing.

Assuming my flight arrives on time, what rates would I expect for an Uber/Lyft (or even a taxi)? And would they likely get through traffic fairly easily at that time of day?

Are there any other options I should consider?

Answer

For your trip from O'Hare to the Citizen M hotel, there are a few transportation options to consider, each with its own advantages and trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown of the best options for you:

1. Public Transportation (Blue Line - CTA)

The Blue Line of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is a convenient, budget-friendly option. The Citizen M hotel is indeed close to the Clark/Lake station, which is a short walk from the hotel. However, you’ll need to take the Blue Line from O'Hare to downtown, which is about a 45-minute ride. Considering your carry-on and full-size rolling suitcase, it’s manageable, but not the most comfortable option, especially during busy times like rush hour.

Pros: Cheapest option, easy access from O'Hare, direct route to downtown.
Cons: You’ll have to manage your luggage on the train, and the trains can get crowded, especially during peak hours (around 3-5 PM). Also, the ride is longer (about 45-50 minutes).
Cost: A one-way fare is $5, which is a great value.

If you don’t mind navigating through the train system with your luggage and you’re looking to save money, this could be a good choice. If you decide to go this route, you can buy your ticket at the airport’s Blue Line station and head directly to Clark/Lake. Keep in mind, trains are fairly frequent (every 10-15 minutes). The station is also very straightforward, but it might feel a bit hectic with luggage.

2. Uber/Lyft

Taking an Uber or Lyft is a much more comfortable and convenient option, especially with luggage. From O'Hare, you'll be picked up at the designated rideshare area (Terminal 1, 2, or 3), and the ride to Citizen M will take about 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic. At 2:13 PM, you might encounter moderate traffic, especially as you approach downtown, but it should still be faster than public transit.

Pros: Door-to-door service, no need to carry luggage, comfortable ride.
Cons: More expensive than public transit, possible traffic delays, especially around rush hour.
Cost: Uber/Lyft fares from O'Hare to downtown typically range from $35-$50, depending on demand and traffic conditions. At 2:13 PM, you may encounter some traffic, but it shouldn’t be as bad as later in the evening. Keep an eye on surge pricing for Lyft/Uber, which can increase during peak hours.

Uber and Lyft are generally reliable, but expect slightly higher prices during peak times. You can check prices through their apps right before you book to compare rates. If traffic is light, you could get there faster than expected.

3. Taxi

Taxis are another option, though they tend to be similar in price and comfort to Uber or Lyft. The main difference is that taxis usually don’t have surge pricing, but they can still be affected by traffic. The fare from O'Hare to downtown is typically about $40-$50 plus any tolls.

Pros: No need to use an app, taxis are readily available at O'Hare.
Cons: Can be similar in price to Uber/Lyft, and like rideshares, they may face traffic delays during busy times.
Cost: Expect to pay around $40-$50, plus any tolls (typically around $5).

4. Private Airport Shuttle or Limousine Service

If you prefer the most comfortable option and don’t mind spending a bit more, a private airport shuttle or limousine service could be a good choice. These services are more expensive than rideshares but offer personalized service and direct transfers. This option is ideal if you’re looking for a premium experience with no need to worry about traffic or luggage handling.

Pros: Comfortable, private, and convenient with luggage handling included.
Cons: More expensive than other options.
Cost: Expect to pay around $80-$100 for a private shuttle or limousine service.

Conclusion: If convenience and comfort are your top priorities, I recommend taking an Uber, Lyft, or a taxi, especially since you have luggage to manage. The cost will be higher than the train, but the experience will be much more pleasant, especially for a solo traveler. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and don’t mind a longer ride, the Blue Line is perfectly fine. Just be aware that during rush hour, trains can get crowded. If you’re interested in more luxury, a private shuttle would be the most comfortable, albeit pricier, option.