By air:
Chicago is served by two major airports: O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). When searching for flights, many sites allow you to search both airports simultaneously using the city code CHI.
From O’Hare: You can take the CTA Blue Line train into the city (towards Forest Park). The fare is approximately $5 from the airport. Get off at UIC–Halsted, which is adjacent to the UIC campus. A taxi or ride-share from O’Hare to downtown typically costs around $45 before tip.
From Midway: Take the CTA Orange Line (fare approximately $2.50) toward the Loop. You can either walk from Harold Washington Library to transfer to the Blue Line, or continue into the Loop and take a short taxi or ride-share to campus or the hotel. A taxi from Midway to downtown typically costs around $25 before tip.
CTA trains from both airports are generally reliable and avoid traffic delays, but can be crowded during peak hours.
By train:
UIC is close to Chicago Union Station, which is served by Amtrak trains from many regional and national destinations. From Union Station, campus is easily reachable by CTA, taxi, or ride-share. A taxi fare should be under $10.
By car.
UIC is located just off Interstates I-90/94 and I-290. Conference parking is available at the Halsted Parking Structure (northeast corner of Taylor St. and Halsted St.). If you plan to park there, take a ticket upon entry and bring it to the workshop for validation. Note that parking privileges do not include in-and-out access. Parking at the Crown Plaza is more expensive and is not recommended if campus parking is available.
Participants whose travel arrangements are handled through UIC will be staying at the Crown Plaza Chicago Metro, located just under a mile from campus. The walk to UIC follows Halsted Street and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
Chicago has an extensive public transportation system operated by the CTA, consisting of trains (“L” lines) and buses. The Blue Line and Pink Line serve the UIC area directly, and multiple bus routes run along Halsted, Taylor, and Roosevelt. Ride-share services and taxis are widely available and are often the easiest option late at night.
Chicago offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Popular options include Millennium Park and the Art Institute, walks along the Chicago Riverwalk or Lake Michigan, and dining in nearby neighborhoods such as the West Loop and Pilsen. The city’s food scene is diverse, with many casual and affordable options within walking or short transit distance of campus.
There will be a workshop dinner on Friday night. Please note this dinner will not be funded.
Chicago is a large city, and standard urban precautions apply. During the day, the UIC area and public transit are generally busy and safe. At night, participants are advised to stay on well-lit streets, travel in groups when possible, and use ride-share or taxis rather than walking long distances. Keep personal belongings secure, especially on public transportation and in crowded areas.