Chicago

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Airports

Major airports serving the Chicago area include O'Hare and Midway, providing domestic and international travel options.

Sections

1. Overview of Chicago's Airports

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

  • Location: 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago.
  • Size and Importance: One of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. It is a hub for United Airlines and American Airlines.
  • Terminals: 4 terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5). Terminal 5 is dedicated to most international flights.
  • Passenger Volume: Handles over 80 million passengers annually.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

  • Location: 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago.
  • Size and Importance: Smaller than O'Hare, primarily serving domestic flights and low-cost carriers. It is a hub for Southwest Airlines.
  • Terminals: 1 terminal with three concourses (A, B, and C).
  • Passenger Volume: Handles around 20 million passengers annually.

2. Transportation Options to and from the Airports

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

  1. Public Transit (CTA Blue Line)

    • Cost: $5 from O'Hare to downtown; $2.50 for other trips.
    • Travel Time: 45-60 minutes to downtown.
    • Details: The Blue Line train operates 24/7 and connects O'Hare to downtown Chicago and other neighborhoods.

  2. Airport Shuttles

    • Cost: $25-$35 per person to downtown hotels.
    • Details: Shared-ride shuttles like GO Airport Express are available but may take longer due to multiple stops.

  3. Taxis and Rideshares

    • Cost: $40-$60 to downtown (metered for taxis; rideshare prices vary based on demand).
    • Travel Time: 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
    • Details: Taxis are available outside each terminal. Rideshare pickups (Uber, Lyft) are designated in specific areas.

  4. Car Rentals

    • Cost: $50-$100 per day, depending on the vehicle and company.
    • Details: Rental car facilities are located at the Multi-Modal Facility, accessible via shuttle buses.

  5. Private Cars/Limousines

    • Cost: $75-$150 depending on the service.
    • Details: Pre-arranged private car services are available for a more luxurious experience.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

  1. Public Transit (CTA Orange Line)

    • Cost: $2.50 per ride.
    • Travel Time: 25-30 minutes to downtown.
    • Details: The Orange Line train connects Midway to downtown Chicago and operates from early morning to late night.

  2. Airport Shuttles

    • Cost: $20-$30 per person to downtown hotels.
    • Details: Shared-ride shuttles like GO Airport Express are available.

  3. Taxis and Rideshares

    • Cost: $30-$50 to downtown.
    • Travel Time: 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.
    • Details: Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are readily available.

  4. Car Rentals

    • Cost: $50-$100 per day.
    • Details: Rental car facilities are located near the terminal.

  5. Private Cars/Limousines

    • Cost: $75-$150 depending on the service.
    • Details: Pre-arranged private car services are available.

3. Flight Connections

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

  • Domestic Flights: Extensive connections to all major U.S. cities.
  • International Flights: Direct flights to Europe, Asia, South America, and more.
  • Layover Tips: If you have a layover, allow at least 1.5-2 hours for domestic connections and 2-3 hours for international connections due to the airport's size and potential security lines.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

  • Domestic Flights: Focuses on domestic routes, especially with Southwest Airlines.
  • International Flights: Limited to nearby destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean.
  • Layover Tips: A smaller airport, so 1-1.5 hours is usually sufficient for connections.

4. Services Available at the Airports

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

  • Dining and Shopping: Wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, including luxury brands and local Chicago favorites.
  • Lounges: Airline lounges (United Club, American Airlines Admirals Club) and independent lounges like the Swissport Lounge.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
  • Other Amenities:
    • Yoga room (Terminal 3).
    • Urban garden (Terminal 3).
    • Children's play area (Terminal 2).
    • Medical services and pharmacies.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

  • Dining and Shopping: Smaller selection of restaurants and shops, but still includes local Chicago eateries like Garrett Popcorn and Gold Coast Dogs.
  • Lounges: Limited lounge options, primarily for Southwest Airlines passengers.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
  • Other Amenities:
    • Art exhibits showcasing local artists.
    • Family restrooms and nursing rooms.

5. Typical Costs Related to Transportation and Essentials

  • Public Transit: $2.50-$5 per ride.
  • Taxis/Rideshares: $30-$60 to downtown.
  • Food: $10-$20 for a meal at airport restaurants.
  • Parking:
    • O'Hare: $15-$40 per day (depending on the lot).
    • Midway: $15-$30 per day (depending on the lot).
  • Luggage Storage: Not available at either airport due to security concerns.

6. Practical Tips and Local Considerations

  1. Traffic Awareness: Chicago traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). Plan extra time for travel to and from the airports.
  2. Weather Preparedness: Chicago winters can be harsh, with snow and ice potentially causing flight delays. Check your flight status during winter months.
  3. Security Lines: Both airports can have long security lines during peak travel times. Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
  4. Public Transit Passes: If you plan to use public transit frequently, consider purchasing a CTA Ventra Card or a 1-day/3-day pass for unlimited rides.
  5. Airport Layouts:
    • O'Hare is large and spread out, so familiarize yourself with terminal maps and allow time to navigate between terminals.
    • Midway is more compact and easier to navigate.
  6. Local Food: Try Chicago-style hot dogs or deep-dish pizza at airport restaurants for a taste of the city.
  7. Accessibility: Both airports are wheelchair accessible, with services available for passengers with disabilities. Contact your airline in advance for assistance.

By understanding the logistics, services, and cultural nuances of Chicago's airports, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Let me know if you need further details or assistance!