“Curious Chicago Kids” is a new Chicago Parent series that helps families explore the city and answer kids’ curious questions along the way. From shiny sculptures to zoo facts, we break it down so parents feel ready — and maybe even a little cool — explaining it.
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The Chicago ‘L’ is more than just a transportation system – it’s a symbol of the city’s identity. Whether you’re a tourist planning a trip to the Windy City or a parent answering curious questions from your child, this guide will help explain everything you need to know about the ‘L.’
Why is the Chicago train called the ‘L’?
The ‘L’ stands for elevated, referring to the elevated train tracks that run above the streets of Chicago. Operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the ‘L’ is a rapid transit system that first began service in 1892, making it one of the oldest in the country.
While parts of the system are underground or at street level, much of it runs above the city on steel tracks, which is how it got its nickname. Chicagoans simply say “the L” when referring to the train.
Where is it? Tips when visiting
The ‘L’ system stretches across eight color-coded lines, covering both the city and some suburbs. The trains connect major landmarks, neighborhoods and airports, including:
- The Loop (downtown Chicago)
- O’Hare International Airport (via the Blue Line)
- Midway Airport (via the Orange Line)
- Wrigley Field (via the Red Line)
- Museum Campus (via transfer to buses or Metra)
Tips for visitors:
- Get a Ventra Card: This is the CTA’s reloadable fare card, which works for both trains and buses.
- Plan Ahead: Use the CTA website or apps like Google Maps or Transit to check real-time schedules.
- Mind the Rush Hours: Trains can get crowded on weekdays between 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
- Stay Alert: The ‘L’ is generally safe, but like in any big city, keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.
How do I explain this to my kid?
If your child is curious about the ‘L,’ you can explain it in simple terms:
“It’s called the ‘L’ because it stands for ‘elevated’—that means a lot of the train tracks are way up high above the streets! So when people ride it, it’s kind of like flying through the city on a big, fast train.”
You can even make it fun by pointing out:
- How the tracks go above cars and buildings.
- How the different lines are like a rainbow of colors (Red, Blue, Green, etc.).
- That the ‘L’ makes cool sounds as it zooms around corners or stops at stations.
Fun Facts About the ‘L’
- It’s Over 130 Years Old: The first ‘L’ train began service in 1892 between Jackson Park and the Loop.
- It Runs 24/7: The Red and Blue lines run all day and night, one of the few U.S. transit systems with 24-hour service.
- The Loop Is a Landmark: The downtown track circuit known as “The Loop” gives Chicago’s central business district its nickname.
- Movie Fame: The ‘L’ has appeared in films like “The Dark Knight,” “Source Code” and “While You Were Sleeping.”
- Ghost Stations: There are several abandoned ‘L’ stations, like the lower-level at Roosevelt, which adds a little mystery to the system.
