Directions & Parking

Public Transportation to the Copernicus Center

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The Copernicus Center is easily accessible by public transportation. The Blue Line, METRA (Union Pacific/Northwest Line), CTA Bus routes, and PACE all stop at the Jefferson Park Transit Center.

A very short 1 1/2 block (5-minute walk) down N. Lipps Avenue takes you directly to the Center (cut through our parking lot entrance).

Main Entrance

Our Main Entrance is located off our parking lot across from N. Lipps Avenue. It is not located on Avondale, which is the back of the building. Please disregard maps on the internet showing that this is our entrance location. A separate entrance for our Annex space is located on Lawrence Avenue (see entrance maps below).

The Lawrence Avenue bus #81 stops in front of the building (eastbound) & at the corner (westbound).

Driving Directions to the Copernicus Center

The Copernicus Center is located on the Northwest side of Chicago at 5216 West Lawrence Avenue, one block east of Milwaukee Avenue, and two blocks west of the Kennedy Expressway (I-90), Exit 84. (watch for sign at the exit)

Click here to get directions on Google Maps – 5216 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60630

Copernicus Center Parking

The Copernicus Center parking lot has reverted to CASH ONLY parking [$20].

Additional non-Copernicus owned parking is available at the Veterans Square underground garage and the parking lot across the street directly to the east owned by outside companies. These are both paid parking. Street parking may also be available. Auxiliary parking is available ONLY when marked by signage. (see map below)

Additional Parking Information

Our Copernicus Center parking lot capacity is 110 (100% more than other city venues of similar size and scope
Free city parking is available on Lawrence, Avondale and Milwaukee
Lipps is metered parking
Nearby parking lots are not owned by the Copernicus Center but are notified of shows and concerts so they may open and staff them. However, we have no control over extended hours decisions.
Our front gate has a shared ride pick up area during shows & concert on Lawrence Avenue (Lyft and Uber).

Special Parking Notes

Northwest Business College lots are no longer available and cars will be subject to towing.
Please watch for “Copernicus Parking” signs for directions. FREE PARKING events are indicated on the event’s page.

Navigating INSIDE the Copernicus Center

For events in the Annex, please use the separate door just off Lawrence Avenue (5214 W. Lawrence Ave.) rather than the main entrance. A coat check is available in the Annex foyer.
Use the main entrance for events in the Theater, Lobby, King’s Hall, & Classrooms.
An elevator is available in the vestibule for access to the main office & classrooms (2nd floor) and King’s Hall (3rd floor). The Director’s office is located off the Lobby (South Lobby).
Please Note: During non-event hours, the door may be locked. Please use the intercom located at the Main Entrance doors.
Loading & Deliveries: Please consult with our office staff before using the Main Entrance: call 773-777-8898.