Efficient public transportation is one of the key advantages of living in Andersonville, a vibrant and historic neighborhood located on Chicago’s North Side. Well-connected to the rest of the city, Andersonville offers residents and visitors multiple transit options, ranging from CTA “L” trains to bus routes and even nearby Metra services. Whether you’re commuting for work, running errands, or exploring Chicago’s diverse attractions, Andersonville’s public transportation network provides a reliable and convenient way to travel.
Here’s an in-depth guide to the public transit options serving Andersonville, including nearby CTA “L” lines, bus routes, and access to Metra trains.
CTA “L” Stations Near Andersonville
The CTA “L” train system is an essential part of Chicago’s transportation network, offering quick and efficient travel across the city. Andersonville is primarily served by the Red Line, one of the CTA’s busiest lines, which connects residents to key destinations throughout the North Side and beyond.
Red Line Access
While Andersonville itself doesn’t have an “L” station within the neighborhood boundaries, the area is conveniently close to two major Red Line stops:
- Berwyn Station: Located just east of Andersonville, the Berwyn station is one of the closest Red Line stops for residents. This station provides northbound service to neighborhoods like Edgewater and Rogers Park, as well as southbound connections to major hubs like Wrigley Field, Lincoln Park, and the Loop.
- Argyle Station: A short distance from Andersonville, the Argyle station pairs convenient access to the Red Line with proximity to the Uptown Entertainment District. From Argyle, commuters can travel south to Chicago’s downtown area in approximately 20–25 minutes, making it a convenient option for residents working in the Loop.
Both stations are within walking or biking distance from Andersonville’s central corridor on Clark Street, ensuring convenient access to one of Chicago’s most reliable transit lines.
Blue and Brown Line Connections: For those traveling further afield, the CTA Blue Line is a popular choice for reaching O’Hare International Airport, while the Brown Line offers a scenic route around the Near North Side and neighborhoods like Lincoln Square and Lakeview. Although the Blue and Brown Lines don’t directly serve Andersonville, they are easily accessible via connecting bus routes, making multi-line travel relatively simple.
CTA Bus Routes
The CTA bus system complements the “L” train network, providing greater neighborhood coverage and connecting commuters to destinations that aren’t directly accessible by rail. The Andersonville neighborhood benefits from multiple bus routes that intersect the community, offering diverse travel options for residents and visitors alike.
#22 Clark: The #22 Clark is one of the most significant bus routes serving Andersonville. Running along Clark Street, this route offers a direct connection to downtown Chicago while also linking Andersonville to other vibrant neighborhoods such as Edgewater, Lincoln Park, and the Gold Coast.
Notable stops along the #22 route include Wrigley Field, the Chicago History Museum, and the southern terminus at downtown’s Harrison Station. With frequent service throughout the day and late into the evening, the #22 Clark simplifies commuting for Andersonville residents heading to both work and leisure destinations.
#50 Damen: The #50 Damen bus provides north-south service through the western edge of Andersonville. This route is particularly useful for commuters needing to connect to Brown Line or Blue Line stations, as it stops near both Damen (Brown Line) and Western (Blue Line) stations. The bus route also intersects with major streets like Lawrence, Montrose, and Diversey, enabling easy transfers to other transit options in surrounding neighborhoods.
#92 Foster: For east-west travel, residents can rely on the #92 Foster bus. Running along Foster Avenue, this route connects Andersonville to the lakefront as well as neighboring communities like Lincoln Square. It’s a convenient option for those traveling to points of interest such as Foster Beach or the River Park recreational area.
Combined Network Advantages
With multiple intersecting bus routes, Andersonville enjoys exceptional connectivity to both local destinations and Chicago’s broader transit system. Whether your schedule involves transferring between lines for a meeting downtown or taking a quick trip to the lakefront, CTA buses provide the flexibility needed to travel efficiently.
Metra Rail Connections Near Andersonville
While the CTA handles most of Chicago’s urban transit needs, the Metra commuter rail system provides a valuable alternative for those traveling to surrounding suburbs or further into the city. Andersonville residents are particularly well-served by the nearby Ravenswood Metra Station, located on the Union Pacific North Line.
Ravenswood Station (Union Pacific North Line)
Positioned just west of Andersonville at Lawrence Avenue and Ravenswood Avenue, the Ravenswood Station offers convenient service for both daily commuters and occasional travelers. The Union Pacific North Line runs between Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center, making suburban travel fast and stress-free.
For Andersonville residents, the Ravenswood Station is an excellent option for trips to nearby suburbs like Evanston or Lake Forest, as well as downtown Chicago. Morning train service frequently caters to commuters heading into the Loop, while reverse traffic provides direct access to northern suburban destinations—ideal for weekend outings or visits to nearby outdoor attractions.
Proximity and Ease of Access
The Ravenswood Metra Station is roughly a mile away from Andersonville’s vibrant Clark Street corridor, making it easily accessible for residents. Many commuters choose to walk, bike, or take a quick bus ride to the station, ensuring seamless integration of urban and suburban transit options.
Why Andersonville’s Pubic Transit Options Stand Out
Efficient public transportation is a hallmark of Andersonville’s appeal, combining the convenience of Chicago’s urban transit network with access to regional rail services.
- Prime Location: Andersonville strikes a balance between local charm and urban accessibility, with transit options that make it easy to explore Chicago and its surrounding communities.
- Multiple Modalities: Whether you prefer riding the “L,” taking a bus, or hopping on the Metra, Andersonville residents enjoy a range of transportation choices tailored to different needs.
- Sustainability: Thanks to ample transit options, Andersonville residents have the opportunity to reduce car usage, contributing to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
For anyone considering Andersonville as their next home, its robust public transportation network is a significant advantage that enables both convenience and connection in equal measure.
Public Transportation in Andersonville: A Recap
Public transportation in Andersonville offers the ideal combination of reliability, accessibility, and variety. With nearby CTA “L” stations, an array of CTA bus routes, and convenient Metra access, residents can enjoy effortless travel to virtually any part of the city or suburbs. Whether you’re commuting downtown, exploring Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods, or heading out for a weekend getaway, Andersonville’s transit network ensures you’re always well-connected.
