Disabilities & Accessibility in Chicago

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Disabilities & Accessibility

The Chicago Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities maintains an information and referral service for disability resources. The office publishes guides, including Access Chicago, which contains more than 200 pages of detailed information about Chicago's airports, accessible ground transportation, hotels, restaurants, sights, shopping, and resources regarding medical equipment and supplies.

Local Resources

Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (Room 1104, 121 N. LaSalle St. 312/744-7050; 312/744-4964 TTY. egov.cityofchicago.org).

Sights & Attractions

Chicago's major sights and attractions all provide accessibility to people using wheelchairs, including ramps and bathrooms. Most stores and restaurants also welcome disabled visitors by providing access.

Transportation

Although some subway stations might be difficult to reach, many Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses are specially equipped to handle the specific needs of customers who are physically challenged.

At O'Hare Airport, American and United airlines have specially designated lounges to provide assistance to travelers with disabilities. If needed, ask for a wheelchair escort, available from all airlines at O'Hare. O'Hare's CTA Blue Line train station is equipped with an elevator; downtown stops with elevators are at Clark/Lake and Jackson Boulevard.

The RTA Travel Information Center's Chicago Transit Map includes information on more than 70 lift-equipped bus routes and accessible subway and El stations. The CTA offers a paratransit program with curb-to-curb service for those unable to use conventional mainline bus or rail services. To use this service, out-of-town visitors must make travel arrangements at least one week in advance.

If you're renting a car, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, and National all rent cars with hand controls, but they require advance notice. Handicap parking cards are valid from state to state.

Transportation Information

Chicago Transit Authority paratransit program (312/432-7025; 312/432-7140; 312/836-4949 TTY). RTA Travel Information Center (312/836-7000; 312/432-7025 TTY. www.transitchicago.com/maps/accessible.html).