Elmhurst Trolley Returns For 10th Year – It's Free

ELMHURST, IL – The Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley will return Friday for its 10th season, offering free rides between the city's three business districts and other destinations.

The seasonal service is scheduled to run Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. through Sept. 19, with additional service during the holidays.

According to a city news release, the trolley is intended to help residents and visitors reach more than 500 local businesses, restaurants and attractions without having to park or drive between stops.

The city said the program is part of its broader tourism and economic development efforts by improving connections between business districts and encouraging people to explore more of Elmhurst in a single trip.

"For the past 10 seasons, the Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley has helped create memorable experiences while supporting our local businesses and connecting people to everything Elmhurst has to offer," Michael Queroz, the city's communications director, said in the news release.

The trolley is also positioned as an option for visitors arriving by train

The full route takes about 30 minutes, and real-time tracking will be available online. Stops listed for the 2026 route are York and Park, York and Schiller, Second and Addison, Cottage Hill and Virginia, Spring Road and the Illinois Prairie Path, and York and Vallette.

The 2026 program also includes the return of the Holly Trolley from Nov. 28 to Dec. 26 on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Expanded service is also planned during Rock the Block on Sept. 11 and 12.