Chicago’s L trains can be chartered to host travelling parties

Those looking for a venue with a changing view can now charter one of Chicago's famous L trains.

Anyone who has travelled on public transport on a Saturday evening knows that the train carriage is often the unofficial first stop for party goers’ night on the town. In Chicago, however, a new initiative from the CTA is enabling people to charter their very own L train to host an event, party or meeting, while travelling around the city.

Hosts can hire a train from around USD 1,800 anytime, except for weekday rush hours. The iconic silver metal trains will take guests around the city from the Downtown Loop to historic Wrigley Field and beyond. A coach can comfortably hold around 35 people, and food, non-alcoholic beverages, decorations and live music are all permitted.

We have already seen a cargo train transformed into a touring gallery by the Station to Station project. Are there other potential social and cultural uses for unused trains?