Many times, CTA trains frustrate the common rider. They can be slow. Sometimes, there’s a rather ominous smell. But for the urban partygoer, a CTA train may be the perfect place to throw your next bash.
Those looking for a romp around the city can charter an elevated train from the Chicago Transit Authority. Operating separately from in-service trains, these 30-seat rail cars allow riders to travel up and down their choice of rail line, picking up family and friends for three hours of track riding.
Prices start at $1,200 for a pair of connected rail cars, and increase depending on the amount of time and number of cars ordered. (CTA officials said prices are determined on an individual basis.) As many as four pairs of rail cars can be chartered.
In the past, CTA trains have been rented out for parties, business events and weddings, said CTA spokeswoman Robyn Ziegler. So far, “L” cars have been chartered 14 times this year, Ziegler said.
There are a few restrictions: Trains cannot be rented during weekday rush hours (from 6 to 9 a.m. and from 3 to 6 p.m.). They can be decorated both inside and out, but only with CTA approval. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed on the chartered train cars; no alcohol is allowed. The trains can make bathroom breaks, but trains will only make a few stops.
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CTA rail operations office, 312-681-4520 or www.transitchicago.com
$1,200 minimum for two connected cars for three hours
Get creative! You want your wedding to be in the city, but you can’t decide where. With a CTA rail car, your chapel is the city itself!