Cabs are probably the quickest and easiest way to get around the city centre. The base charge upon entry begins at $1.90 and rises to approximately $1.60 per mile from then on. Each extra passenger raises the base charge by $0.50.
The least expensive way to get around town, however, is by public transportation – the El or the bus. Fares on both run $1.75 per ride, plus an extra $0.25 for up to two transfers within two hours. You'll need a fare card to ride the El and a fare card or exact change for the bus (ask for the transfer when boarding). Buy fare cards at El stations for face value, or purchase daily visitor passes for between one and five days of unlimited travel on El trains and busses, starting at $5 for a one-day pass. These can be ordered in advance on 888 YOUR CTA, or on the website: www.transitchicago.com