I might consider the time of day before deciding. I ride the Blue Line to ORD all the time, but unless I am between rush hours, I cab it. Also a late night transfer, or even the ride itself, might be a bit much at late hours. Depends on the OPs comfort level. I rode it from Printer's Row to Cumberland for 3 years without more than a drunk or two, but I still would not suggest an out of towner take the EL unless I knew when he/she was getting in.