In short
- Look for the black and yellow compass rose logo at street level.
- Main hubs include Block 37, Chicago Cultural Center, and Millennium Station.
- Access is completely free and open weekdays from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
In this article
The Chicago Pedway links more than 40 blocks and about 50 buildings in the Central Business District. You can step into this climate-controlled maze from street level or directly from underground train stations. Below is exactly where to find the doors and how to spot the official signs.
Where are the main street-level entrances?
You can walk in through major landmarks like Block 37 and the Chicago Cultural Center.
Block 37 is a multi-level shopping center at 108 N State Street. It serves as a central intersection for the system. The Chicago Cultural Center is another reliable entry point on the eastern edge. Many office towers and government buildings, like City Hall, also have lobby access to the lower concourse during business hours.
What do the official Pedway entrance signs look like?
Look for a distinct black and yellow compass rose logo.
The City of Chicago marks official access points with this logo. You will find it on glass doors, inside office building lobbies, and near dedicated stairwells. Signage can be inconsistent. It helps to download the official City of Chicago PDF map before your visit.
Can you enter directly from public transit?
Yes, several CTA and Metra stations integrate directly into the tunnels.
If you take the CTA Red or Blue line, you can enter from the Lake, Washington, or Monroe stations. A CTA ride costs $2.50. Millennium Station also connects to the eastern end of the network. You can step off your Metra commuter train and walk right into the system.
Does it cost money to enter the Pedway?
Access to walk the Pedway is completely free to the public.
You do not need a ticket to enter the tunnels or walk between buildings. However, you will need a Ventra card or contactless payment to pass through any CTA train zones. Guided architectural walking tours charge between $35 and $45 per person.
When are the doors open?
Most access points open on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The tunnels rely on the operating hours of private corporate buildings. Many segments close promptly at 5:00 PM. Large portions of the network are completely closed on weekends and major holidays.
Where do guided Pedway tours start?
Walking tours often meet at designated landmarks like the Cultural Center.
Professional guides help navigate the confusing segments and unexpected dead ends. Tours typically take 1.5 to 2.5 hours. They explain the architectural history of the towering Loop landmarks directly above the tunnels.
Questions travellers ask
Are the entryways wheelchair accessible?
Not all routes are fully ADA accessible. While some parts have ramps and elevators, the patchwork nature of the system requires stairs in certain transitions.
Can I enter the Pedway at night?
No, you generally cannot. Most segments rely on private building hours and close promptly at 5:00 PM on weekdays. Many are closed entirely on evenings and weekends.
Are there bathrooms near the entrances?
Public restrooms are rarely available in the tunnels themselves. You should utilize facilities inside connected public buildings, like the free restrooms at the Chicago Cultural Center.
