How to Get to Grant Park from Union Station [2026 Guide]
Walk 20 minutes from Union Station to Grant Park, or take CTA Bus 126 for 15 minutes at $2.50. Taxi or rideshare takes 10 minutes, costing $8–$12.
Known as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” Grant Park stretches along Lake Michigan with landmarks like Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Since Union Station is the city’s busiest rail hub, most visitors heading downtown pass through it, making the station the perfect starting point for your visit to the park.
🚶 Option 1: Walking (Best Scenic & Free Choice)
Walking is the best scenic and completely free way to get to Grant Park from Union Station in Chicago. The route covers approximately 1.2–1.5 miles (2–2.5 km) and typically takes 20–30 minutes, depending on your pace and exact destination within the park.
After leaving Chicago Union Station, head east through downtown Chicago via Adams Street or Jackson Boulevard, passing iconic skyscrapers, public art installations, and bustling city streets before reaching the western edge of Grant Park. This option is especially popular with visitors who want to experience Chicago’s famous architecture and vibrant downtown atmosphere while avoiding transportation costs.
Travel Time
Average walking time: 20–30 minutes
Distance: Approximately 1.2–1.5 miles (2–2.5 km)
Transfer Cost
Cost: Free
Transfers Required: None.
Tip: Walking gives you the chance to pass by Willis Tower and historic architecture on your way to the park.
🚌 Option 2: CTA Bus (Fast & Budget-Friendly)
Public buses connect Union Station directly with Grant Park.
- Route: Union Station → CTA Bus 126 (Jackson & Canal stop) → Michigan & Jackson stop → Walk a block into Grant Park.
- Travel Time: 12–15 minutes.
- Cost: $2.50 with Ventra Card.
- Best For: Budget travelers who prefer public transit.
🚇 Option 3: CTA ‘L’ Train (Slightly Longer but Flexible)
Though there’s no direct train to Grant Park, you can use the CTA ‘L’ for flexible routes.
- Route: Union Station → Quincy ‘L’ Station → Brown, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line → Adams/Wabash Station → Walk 5 minutes east to Grant Park.
- Travel Time: 20–25 minutes.
- Cost: $2.50.
- Best For: Travelers who want to experience Chicago’s elevated trains.
🚖 Option 4: Taxi or Rideshare (Quickest Option)
For speed and convenience, taxis or Uber/Lyft rides are a great choice.
- Route: Union Station → Grant Park (via Jackson Boulevard or Congress Parkway).
- Travel Time: 8–12 minutes (depending on traffic).
- Cost: $8–$12.
- Best For: Groups, visitors with luggage, or those short on time.
🚗 Option 5: Driving Yourself (Not Ideal Due to Parking)
If you’re renting a car or driving, be prepared for high parking fees downtown.
- Route: Union Station → Congress Parkway or Jackson Boulevard → Enter Grant Park area.
- Travel Time: 10–15 minutes.
- Cost: Parking nearby costs $15–$25.
- Best For: Travelers already renting cars for other trips.
Related Articles: How to Get to Lincoln Park Zoo by Train From Chicago
Transfer Cost Comparison
| Option | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | 18–22 mins | Free | Scenic route, sightseeing |
| CTA Bus 126 | 12–15 mins | $2.50 | Cheap & direct transit |
| CTA ‘L’ Train | 20–25 mins | $2.50 | Flexible public transit option |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 8–12 mins | $8–$12 | Fastest & most convenient |
| Driving (car) | 10–15 mins | $15–$25 | Drivers, but parking is costly |
FAQs About Getting to Grant Park from Union Station
Q1: Can you walk from Union Station to Grant Park?
Yes, it’s a straightforward 20-minute walk east along Adams Street or Jackson Boulevard.
Q2: Which CTA bus goes from Union Station to Grant Park?
Take CTA Bus 126 from Jackson & Canal. It drops you off at Michigan & Jackson, right next to Grant Park.
Q3: How much does a taxi from Union Station to Grant Park cost?
Taxis or rideshares cost about $8–$12 and take around 10 minutes.
Q4: Is the CTA ‘L’ train a good option?
Yes, though indirect. Take the Orange, Pink, Purple, or Brown Line to Adams/Wabash, then walk 5 minutes.
Q5: How far is Union Station from Grant Park?
It’s about 1 mile, making it very walkable.
Getting to Grant Park from Union Station is simple. Walk for free and enjoy the cityscape, hop on CTA Bus 126 for a quick ride, or grab a taxi if you’re in a hurry.