Hello folks:
I am planning two short trips in Chicago and will use public transit. I still don't understand the contactless "tap" payments. I own an Android Phone with Google Pay. Do I still need the Ventra app? Also, when loading value into the Ventra app, can I load any amount I want?
About the L: how do I transfer from the Blue Line to the Red Line in downtown? My hotel is Acme, which is right next to the Red Line Grand station.
Still confused and would appreciate some help. Thanks.
Its been a while since I used my Ventra Card in Chicago, so I am not familiar with current contactless procedures.
You can transfer between the Red Line and Blue Line at Lake and Washington stations using the contactless card, and at Jackson Blvd via a tunnel with no turnstiles.
Chicagoan here!
I use an iPhone with Apple Pay/Apple Wallet, but the process should be the same for Android and Google Pay/Google Wallet. First, you will need to download the app to register and set up a Ventra card. Within the app, you can add any amount of money you'd like to the card (or get a pass, available in various day—1 day, 3 day, 7 day, etc—denominations). Once that's set up, just hold your phone near the contactless reader on the turnstile and you should be good to go. If you have any problems, paper tickets and day passes are available to purchase from vending machines at any station.
Thank you for your replies. I will stay at the Acme Hotel on Grand and Ohio for my first stay and then at the Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago River North on Huron and Clark for my second stay. Both hotels are located in River North. Are there any dodgy parts or streets that I should avoid?
Another neighborhood that I am interested in is Wicker Park/Logan Sq along the Blue line. There seems to be a plethora of nice eateries and cafes there. Again, any "to avoid" zone?
Have stayed in the Grand & Ohio and Huron & Clark areas several times. They are fine. I have never stayed in Wicker Park or Logan Square. They are up and coming or gentrifying areas depending on your perspective.
