Guide to Chicago’s Airports: O’Hare International and Midway

With incredible architecture, renowned museums, delicious food (hello, deep dish pizza!), and the impressive Lake Michigan, Chicago is the ideal American city getaway. However, before you plan your adventure, understanding the city’s airports is essential for a smooth journey. Chicago is served by two major airports: O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport.

O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the country, featuring four terminals with numerous airlines operating daily flights. In contrast, Midway is smaller, consisting of one main terminal that houses three concourses, handling about a fifth of the flights available at O’Hare. Moreover, if you’re traveling internationally, O’Hare is likely your best bet, though Midway does offer some international services. It’s important to note that flight schedules may have adjusted due to the ongoing implications of the pandemic.

Both airports are easily accessible via public transportation, with the additional provision of COVID-19 testing for travelers at a fee.

Chicago Airport Maps

O’Hare International Airport Map

Chicago Midway International Airport Map

O’Hare International Airport

O’Hare International Airport (ORD), situated on Chicago’s northwest side, boasts nearly 1,000 daily direct flights connecting international and domestic destinations. Travelers can access numerous states and countries across continents, making O’Hare a popular layover choice.

The airport comprises four terminals—Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5—each offering a variety of dining and shopping options. Notably, Terminal 1 is home to ANA, Lufthansa, United, and United Express, while Terminal 2 serves Air Canada, Alaska, Delta, Delta Shuttle, and JetBlue. Furthermore, Terminal 3 includes airlines like American and Spirit Airlines, among others. Terminal 5 caters to over 30 airlines, including prominent international carriers. Furthermore, several airlines have lounges at O’Hare, enhancing traveler comfort.

Getting to O’Hare International Airport

Accessing O’Hare is convenient, with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line and the Metra commuter train services available. Moreover, regional shuttle services, taxis, and rideshare options are also readily accessible. For those driving, parking rates commence at $15 per day.

O’Hare International Airport Airlines

A plethora of domestic and international airlines serves O’Hare, including major U.S.-based carriers such as Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, American, and United, alongside significant international airlines like Air France, ANA, British Airways, and more. A comprehensive list of airlines can be found on O’Hare’s website.

Chicago Midway International Airport

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), located on the south side of the city, handles around 220 daily flights predominantly to domestic destinations. Midway also offers international flights to several destinations in Mexico, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

The terminal at Midway features three concourses (A, B, and C) with various shopping and dining options. However, there are no airport lounges available, apart from the USO center dedicated to active military personnel and their families.

Getting to Chicago Midway International Airport

The Chicago Transit Authority’s Orange Line trains provide seamless transport from downtown Chicago to the airport, complemented by CTA and Pace buses, along with shuttle services for other locations not served by the Orange Line. Additionally, taxis, rideshare options, and self-parking (with rates starting at $15 per day) are available for convenience.

Chicago Midway International Airport Airlines

Midway is primarily served by Allegiant, Delta, Porter, Southwest, and Volaris Airlines, with Southwest leading the way in available flights.