Chicago CTA Adds Direct Bus to Auto Show
CTA launches Route 3 direct bus service to Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place
CTA Adds Direct Bus Service to Chicago Auto Show
Chicago's CTA is running direct bus service to the Chicago Auto Show, transit officials said. Route 3 buses provide daily service to the event, eliminating parking hassles for visitors. The transit authority marked the service as high priority, though officials didn't specify how long the special service will continue or when the auto show ends.
Service Details and Boarding Locations
The dedicated service operates on Route 3, one of CTA's north-south corridors connecting downtown Chicago. Northside passengers can board southbound buses on Michigan Avenue south of Chicago Avenue, while southside riders can catch northbound buses on King Drive. The routing provides access from multiple neighborhoods to the convention center. Officials announced the service February 7, though they haven't said whether similar direct service will be offered for future events at the venue.
Transit Authority Prioritizes Event Access
CTA designated the auto show service as high priority, reflecting the agency's focus on connecting riders to major city events. The direct routing eliminates transfers that would typically be required for some riders traveling to McCormick Place. Specific ridership projections for the service weren't available. Transit agencies often add temporary service for conventions and shows, adjusting frequencies based on demand, though CTA didn't release details about how many buses will run or service intervals.
Service Timeline and Duration
The direct bus service is operating daily during the auto show, officials said. The announcement was published February 7, 2026, though the transit authority didn't specify the show's end date or when the special service will conclude. CTA typically provides advance notice for temporary service changes, but whether the agency will extend similar service for other McCormick Place events wasn't clear from available information.
Convenient Option for Auto Show Visitors
The direct service eliminates parking costs and downtown traffic navigation for auto show attendees. Visitors from across Chicago's north and south sides can access the event without transfers. Officials said the service aims to make major events more accessible to transit riders. Moovit provides real-time arrival information for CTA Route 3 and other Chicago transit services.
