Discover the world-famous Chicago "L" - in all it's grit and glory. The thundering "L" is one of Chicago's most enduring icons. Operating 24-7 since 1892, it is not only an antique but a working antique. More than 10 billion people have ridden the "L", which now carries half a million people a day over 222 miles of track. The heavy, rumbling "L" has a light side too. It is sought out by tourists, featured in major motion pictures, enjoyed by wide-eyed kids, photographed by admirers, and studied by historians. Meanwhile, both the Smithsonian Institution and the Chicago history Museum have recently enshrined Chicago "L" cars as the showpiece of major permanent exhibits.