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Historic CTA Line Station: A Relic of Chicago's Transit Past

Explore a piece of Chicago's transportation history at the site of the original CTA Line Station in Cicero, a landmark of a bygone era.

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The Historic CTA Line Station at 5001 W 21st St in Cicero, IL, stands as a reminder of Chicago's early elevated railway system. Though no longer in operation, this historical landmark evokes a sense of nostalgia, marking a significant chapter in the region's transportation history.

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A brief summary to Historic CTA Line Station

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

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5001 W 21st St, Cicero, Illinois, 60804, US
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Historic CTA Line Station.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Explore the surrounding neighborhood to discover more about the history of Cicero and its connection to Chicago.
Consider visiting the nearby Cicero (Pink Line) station to experience the current CTA system.
Check out the Hawthorne Shopping Center, located near the original Hawthorne Works plant of the Western Electric Company.

Discover more about Historic CTA Line Station

The former CTA Line Station, located at 5001 W 21st St in Cicero, Illinois, is a tangible link to the past, representing the evolution of Chicago's public transportation. Originally part of the Metropolitan West Side Elevated Railroad's Garfield Park branch, the station, then known as 48th Avenue, first opened in 1895. It served as a terminal station until 1902 when the line was extended.The station played a crucial role in connecting Cicero with Chicago, facilitating the movement of people and goods between the city and its suburbs. The original station was a wood-frame clapboard structure.In 1958, the elevated station was closed and replaced by a new station in the median of the Congress Expressway (now the Eisenhower Expressway). The Garfield Park branch was demolished to make way for the expressway. The current Cicero station on the Blue Line is located one block south of the original station.While the original station is no longer standing, its legacy endures as a reminder of the early days of public transportation in the Chicago area.

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    Getting There

    Public Transport

    To reach the Historic CTA Line Station site using public transportation, several options are available. From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Pink Line to the Cicero station. From the Cicero station, walk north along Cicero Avenue to 21st Street. The site is located at the intersection of Cicero Avenue and 21st Street. A single fare on the CTA is approximately $3.

    Walking

    If you are already in the vicinity of Cicero, Illinois, walking to the site is a viable option. From the Cicero (Pink Line) station, head north on Cicero Avenue for approximately 0.6 miles. Turn left onto W 21st Street. The destination will be on your left.

    Taxi/Ride-share

    For a direct route, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Chicago and Cicero area. A ride from downtown Cicero to the site at 5001 W 21st St will cost approximately $21-$26. Be sure to confirm the fare and route with the driver before starting your journey.

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    File:Hawthorne Works tower 2012 1.JPG - Wikipedia

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