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Getting to and from Chicago Airports: A Complete Guide to Transportation
Chicago is a major travel hub in the United States, home to two large airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Whether you’re a local resident, a business traveler, or a tourist, getting to and from these airports can be easy—if you know your options. This guide will break down the different types of transportation for airport, including trains, buses, shuttles, rideshares, taxis, and car rentals. We’ll also give tips on choosing the best method based on your budget, time, and comfort.
1. Overview of Chicago’s Airports
O’Hare International Airport
- Located about 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago.
- One of the busiest airports in the world.
- Serves domestic and international flights.
Midway International Airport
- Located about 11 miles southwest of downtown.
- Smaller and less crowded.
- Mostly serves domestic flights, especially low-cost airlines like Southwest.
2. Public Transportation (CTA)
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers a cost-effective and reliable way to reach both airports. This is the best option for people looking to save money or avoid traffic.
For O’Hare: The Blue Line
- The CTA Blue Line connects downtown Chicago (The Loop) directly to O’Hare.
- Trains run 24/7, every 5-15 minutes depending on the time of day.
- The trip takes about 45 minutes from downtown.
- Cost: $5 from O’Hare to downtown (regular fares from downtown are $2.50).
For Midway: The Orange Line
- The CTA Orange Line goes from downtown to Midway.
- Trains operate from around 4:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
- The trip takes about 25 minutes.
- Cost: $2.50 one-way.
Pros
- Cheap
- Frequent service
- No traffic delays
Cons
- Can be crowded during rush hour
- Not ideal if you have a lot of luggage
- Limited service hours for Orange Line
3. Airport Shuttles
Shuttle services are a good option if you prefer door-to-door service but don’t want to spend as much as a private ride.
Shared Shuttles
- Companies like GO Airport Express offer shared rides from hotels, homes, and offices to both airports.
- You may have to share the vehicle with others, which can increase travel time.
- Cost: Around $30–$40 per person, depending on the distance.
Hotel Shuttles
- Many Chicago hotels near the airports offer free shuttle service for guests.
- Usually run every 15–30 minutes.
- Ideal for travelers staying near the airport.
Pros
- Convenient if you’re staying at a hotel
- Less expensive than private car service
Cons
- Slower due to multiple stops
- May require advance booking
4. Rideshares: Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft operate at both O’Hare and Midway. This is a great middle-ground between convenience and cost.
Pick-Up Zones
- O’Hare: Follow signs to the “Ride App Pickup” area, usually in a specific parking garage.
- Midway: Ride app pick-up is near Door 2 of the Lower Level.
Cost Estimates
- O’Hare to downtown: $35–$60 (depending on time and traffic)
- Midway to downtown: $25–$45
- Can be more expensive during peak hours due to surge pricing.
Pros
- Direct ride to your destination
- Easy to book with a smartphone
Cons
- Price can vary a lot
- Long wait times during busy periods
- Pick-up areas can be far from terminal
5. Taxis
Traditional Chicago taxis are available at both airports and are a reliable option, especially if you prefer not to use a smartphone app.
Taxi Stands
- O’Hare: Taxis are outside the baggage claim area at each terminal.
- Midway: Taxis line up outside Door 3 (Lower Level).
Flat Rates
- O’Hare to downtown: around $40–$50 (plus tip)
- Midway to downtown: around $30–$40
Pros
- No need to book ahead
- Professional drivers
Cons
- Can be more expensive than rideshare
- Cash or card, but check if the cab accepts your preferred payment method
6. Car Rentals
If you plan to explore Chicago or nearby areas, renting a car might be a good idea. Both airports have dedicated rental car centers.
O’Hare
- Car rental center is off-site but reachable by a free shuttle train (Airport Transit System).
- Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget are available.
Midway
- The rental car center is also off-site, reached via a free shuttle from the terminal.
Pros
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Good for suburban or business travel
Cons
- Expensive parking in downtown
- Traffic in Chicago can be heavy
- Toll roads and gas add to the cost
7. Private Car Services & Limousines
If you want a luxury ride or are traveling with a group, private car services may be worth the extra cost.
- Can be booked online or through hotels.
- Vehicles range from sedans to SUVs to limousines.
- Cost: Starts at $75 and goes up depending on the vehicle and distance.
Pros
- Comfortable and private
- Great for business or special occasions
Cons
- High price
- Needs advance reservation
8. Biking and Walking
While biking and walking are not practical ways to get to the airport from most of Chicago, they may work for travelers staying in nearby neighborhoods.
- O’Hare has some bike paths and racks, but it’s far from downtown.
- Midway is closer to residential areas and could be bikeable for some.
This option is only realistic for locals with no luggage.
Final Tips for Airport Transportation in Chicago
- Plan ahead. Allow extra time, especially during rush hour (7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.).
- Use apps. Google Maps, CTA apps, Uber, and Lyft all provide real-time info.
- Compare prices. Sometimes, a shuttle or rideshare deal can beat a taxi.
- Avoid last-minute surprises. Some services require reservations, so double-check before you travel.
Which Option Is Best for You?
| Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Budget traveler | CTA trains |
| Traveling light | CTA or shuttle |
| Heavy luggage | Taxi, rideshare, or private car |
| Business traveler | Private car or taxi |
| Traveling with family | Rideshare or car rental |
| Staying at airport hotel | Hotel shuttle |
Chicago offers many ways to get to and from its airports. Whether you’re headed to O’Hare or Midway, there’s a transportation option for every budget and lifestyle. Choose what works best for you, and enjoy your time in the Windy City! For more services and tips Visit our website: https://www.eliterideschicago.com/