|
Taxi
Getting a taxicab is easy in Chicago. Taxicabs run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be hailed by stepping to the curb and waving your hand over your head. You can also pre-arrange a taxi pickup by calling any of the hundreds of taxicab companies in Chicago. If the sign on top of the taxicab is illuminated, it is available for hire.
At O'Hare and Midway airports , a starter is available in case of questions or problems in finding a taxi. Easily identifiable by a city ID, the starter will help arrange for your ride. As you exit baggage claim at the airport, look for the “Taxi” sign and stand in the queue to wait for your taxicab to the city.
Drivers can not refuse you service, unless the "Not for Hire" sign is clearly displayed in advance. In Chicago, you pay the amount shown on the taximeter, plus any tolls. The meter should start at $1.90, then increase $1.60 for every mile, or $2.00 for every six minutes of waiting time. This fare may change between now and 2006.
There is an extra 50-cent charge for additional passengers over the age of 12 and under the age of 65. There is no extra charge for baggage or credit card use, and tipping is optional. Drivers are not required to carry or to change bills larger than $20.00.
For trips over five miles, the driver may agree to charge either a flat rate or discount fare. However, the meter must continue to run, and an agreement must be made with the driver before the trip begins. Tipping is optional, but it is customary to tip $1-$2 for short distances, and $2-$5 for longer trips, such as downtown to the airport.
These are average fares from downtown Chicago’s State and Madison Streets to various destinations. Fares will vary, depending on traffic conditions, and may be higher by 2006
O'Hare Airport - $30.00 to $35.00, excluding $1 MPEA tax
Midway Airport - $20.00 to $25.00, excluding $1 MPEA tax
Navy Pier (1.6 miles) - $4.70
Water Tower Place (1.3 miles) - $4.10
Lincoln Park Zoo (3.6 miles) - $7.90
Wrigley Field (5.1 miles) - $10.10
Soldier Field (1.6 miles) - $4.70
University of Chicago (9.0 miles) - $17.90
|
