5 Resources
Chicago's public transit system operating buses and L trains with reduced fare programs for seniors, students, persons with disabilities, and low-income riders. The CTA operates 24/7 on many routes and offers a Ventra card for easy fare payment. Reduced fares require a permit obtainable through the RTA. Fathers using transit to reach work, court appointments, or childcare can find route maps, schedules, and Ventra card information at transitchicago.com.
888-968-7282 · 567 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661
Commuter railroad serving 11 lines across the Chicago metropolitan area connecting suburbs to downtown, with reduced fare options for eligible riders. Metra runs from Union Station and Ogilvie Transportation Center to suburban communities across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. Fathers commuting to Chicago from the suburbs can purchase tickets at stations or via the Metra app. Monthly passes offer significant savings over daily fares.
312-322-6777 · 547 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661
Agency coordinating CTA, Metra, and Pace services and administering reduced fare permits for seniors and persons with disabilities in the Chicago metropolitan area. The RTA's Reduced Fare Program issues permits allowing eligible seniors 65+ and persons with qualifying disabilities to ride at half the regular fare. Fathers can call 312-913-3110 or visit rtachicago.org to learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply for a reduced fare permit.
312-913-3200 · 175 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 1650, Chicago, IL 60604
Program providing reduced fare permits for seniors 65+ and persons with qualifying disabilities to ride CTA, Metra, and Pace at discounted rates throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. Eligible riders receive a Reduced Fare Permit that entitles them to half-price fares. Applications require proof of age or disability documentation. Fathers who are seniors or have qualifying disabilities can call 312-913-3110 or visit the RTA website to start an application.
312-913-3110 · 175 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 1650, Chicago, IL 60604
Amtrak routes connecting Chicago to Springfield, St. Louis, Quincy, and Carbondale with multiple daily departures from Chicago's Union Station. The Lincoln Service runs between Chicago and St. Louis with stops at Joliet, Pontiac, Bloomington, Springfield, and Carlinville. The Illinois Zephyr serves Galesburg and Quincy. Fathers who need to travel between Illinois cities can book tickets at amtrak.com or call 800-872-7245 for schedules and fares.
800-872-7245 · 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606 (Union Station)