I am going to Chicago via the amtrak out of Harvard. Any suggestions? And do you know how much cab fare is?

When you get to Chicago exit on canal st and you will be right where the cab stand is, there are porters who can help you with your luggage. The fare should be no more than $25 , depending on traffic and time of day you are traveling, The trip is about 8 miles. Don't worry about the cab drivers. They have to be licensed as cab drivers if they work in the city of Chicago. That means that they go through a course where they learn all the routes and places in Chicago, also they go through a background check where they check their fingerprints and criminal records and so on. It is a long process to get that license and not cheap either. Those guys don't take any chances to loose their privilage to drive us in the city. The drivers are usually professional and friendly. If you have any problems call Consumer Services (312) 744-9400.

Mickey's a fool. Taking the train into Union Station puts you in the South Loop. No, it's not the elite part of town, but it's hardly the barrio. If you're smart, just take a gym bag in lieu of luggage. No one knows if you're a traveler, commuter or just a young professional off to a meeting. When you walk out of Union Station, head across the street and walk north. At the next main street heading east, flag a cab. There isn't as much taxi traffic on the streets south of Union, so your chances of getting a cab are low. When you get in the cab tell him to take you to the Museum of Science and Industry and take Columbus Drive. It's a nice way to get a view of Grant Park and the lake, but it's also the quickest route. He'll get off at 57th St. and you'll be right there. Total cost, depending on lights and traffic, is probably in the $10 area.

First, don't act like a out of towner. Tell the driver to take Lake Shore Drive to 57th Street. If you give away you not from here, you might go the longest route and that's$$$$. Don't ask questions of people at the train station. Ask the agents for cab info. Criminals like to hang around the train station and listen for people who are trying to get places and have no clue. So, stay visable, mind your own business, and enjoy the visit.

I don't know how much the cab is, but the train isn't far from the museum. It's short trip down the lake shore. have fun