The top three closest airports to Chicago, Illinois, are O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport, and Chicago Executive Airport. They offer various domestic and international flights.
Chicago, Illinois, is a major hub for air travel in the United States. The city is served by two primary airports: O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. O’Hare is one of the busiest airports globally and provides extensive domestic and international connections.
Midway, though smaller, is a vital hub for domestic flights, particularly for budget airlines. Chicago Executive Airport, located in the suburb of Wheeling, caters to private and corporate aviation. These airports provide diverse travel options, making Chicago easily accessible for business and leisure travelers. Whether flying locally or globally, Chicago’s airports offer convenience and connectivity.
O’hare International Airport
Chicago, Illinois, is a bustling hub with several nearby airports. Among them, O’Hare International Airport stands out as a top choice for travelers. Known for its extensive facilities and numerous flight options, O’Hare ensures a seamless travel experience. Let’s explore why O’Hare International Airport is a favorite.
Location
O’Hare International Airport is located approximately 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. This prime location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
The airport is situated in the O’Hare community area, with the address:
- 10000 W O’Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666
O’Hare is connected to the city through several convenient transportation options:
- CTA Blue Line: Provides direct service from downtown Chicago to the airport.
- Metra: Offers rail service from the North Central Service line.
- Highways: Easily reachable via I-90 and I-294.
- Shuttle Services: Various shuttle services operate between the airport and city hotels.
For those driving, ample parking facilities are available, including hourly, daily, and long-term options.
Flight Options
O’Hare International Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. It is one of the busiest airports in the world.
With over 200 destinations available, travelers have a wide range of choices:
- Domestic Flights: Frequent flights to major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.
- International Flights: Direct flights to global destinations such as London, Tokyo, and Paris.
O’Hare hosts numerous airlines, including major carriers like:
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
These airlines offer a variety of classes, from economy to first class, ensuring options for all budgets.
Amenities
O’Hare International Airport boasts a wide array of amenities to enhance the travel experience. From dining to shopping, the airport has something for everyone.
- Restaurants: Choose from various cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and American.
- Cafes: Numerous coffee shops and cafes for a quick bite or a relaxing break.
- Duty-Free Shops: Ideal for international travelers looking to purchase items tax-free.
- Retail Stores: A variety of stores offering everything from electronics to fashion.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
- Lounges: Multiple airline lounges providing a comfortable space to relax.
- Family Services: Family-friendly facilities, including play areas for kids.
- Business Services: Business centers equipped with meeting rooms and workstations.
For travelers needing special assistance, O’Hare provides various services, including wheelchair rentals and designated parking areas.
Midway International Airport
Chicago, Illinois, is a bustling hub with several airports in close proximity. One of the top three closest airports is Midway International Airport. Midway International Airport is known for its convenient location and a wide array of amenities. It offers numerous flight options catering to both domestic and international travelers.
Location
Midway International Airport (MDW) is situated just 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. This makes it a highly accessible choice for travelers. Here are some key points about its location:
- Address: 5700 S Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60638
- Distance from Downtown: Approximately 10 miles
- Driving Time: Roughly 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions
- Public Transit: Connected via the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line
Being close to downtown, Midway is ideal for business travelers and tourists. The airport’s location enables quick access to Chicago’s main attractions, such as Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile.
Flight Options
Midway International Airport serves a multitude of destinations. Here are some details about its flight options:
- Domestic Flights: Major airlines like Southwest, Delta, and Frontier offer flights to cities across the United States.
- International Flights: Limited international destinations include Mexico and Canada.
Below is a table showcasing some popular destinations:
| Destination | Airline | Flight Duration |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Southwest | 2 hours |
| Los Angeles | Delta | 4 hours |
| Toronto | WestJet | 1.5 hours |
With a variety of flight options, Midway is a versatile airport for both short and long-haul travelers.
Amenities
Midway International Airport provides numerous amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. Key amenities include:
- Dining Options: Numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets.
- Shopping: Diverse shopping outlets including duty-free stores.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
- Lounges: VIP and airline-specific lounges for added comfort.
- Accessibility: Services for travelers with disabilities.
Other notable amenities include:
- Business Services: Conference rooms and workstations.
- Family Services: Kids’ play areas and family restrooms.
- Health and Wellness: On-site medical services and yoga rooms.
With these amenities, Midway ensures a pleasant and convenient experience for all travelers.
Chicago Rockford International Airport
When exploring the top 3 closest airports to Chicago, Illinois, one cannot overlook the charm and convenience of Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD). This airport offers a blend of efficient services and a traveler-friendly atmosphere. Located just a short drive from Chicago, it serves as a fantastic alternative to the busier airports in the region.
Location
Chicago Rockford International Airport is located in Rockford, Illinois. It is approximately 85 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. This makes it a convenient option for those residing in the northern suburbs or traveling from the nearby states.
The airport is easily accessible via major highways, including:
- I-90 (Jane Addams Memorial Tollway)
- US-20
These routes make the journey smooth and straightforward. For those who prefer public transportation, several shuttle services offer connections to and from Chicago.
Here’s a quick overview of the distance from major landmarks:
| Landmark | Distance to RFD |
|---|---|
| Downtown Chicago | 85 miles |
| Chicago O’Hare International Airport | 73 miles |
| Milwaukee, WI | 95 miles |
Flight Options
Chicago Rockford International Airport offers a variety of flight options. It serves both domestic and international destinations, providing flexibility and convenience for travelers.
Some key airlines operating from RFD include:
- Allegiant Air
- Apple Vacations
These airlines offer direct flights to several popular destinations such as:
- Las Vegas, NV
- Phoenix, AZ
- Orlando, FL
- Cancun, Mexico
For cargo services, RFD is a significant hub. Major cargo carriers like UPS and Amazon Air operate from this airport, ensuring efficient logistics and timely deliveries.
Amenities
Chicago Rockford International Airport offers a range of amenities designed to make your travel experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Some of the key amenities include:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Comfortable seating areas with charging stations
- Restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of food and drink options
- Duty-free shopping for international travelers
- Rental car services and ground transportation options
For those traveling with children, the airport provides family-friendly facilities such as play areas and baby-changing stations. Business travelers can take advantage of the business lounge which offers a quiet place to work.
The airport also has pet relief areas for those traveling with their furry friends. For accessibility, RFD ensures all facilities are easily navigable for individuals with disabilities.
Overall, Chicago Rockford International Airport combines convenience, comfort, and a range of services to meet all travelers’ needs.
Comparison Of Airports
Chicago, Illinois, is a major hub for travelers in the Midwest. Choosing the right airport can make a big difference in your travel experience. This comparison of the top 3 closest airports to Chicago will help you decide which is best for your needs.
Proximity To Chicago
Proximity to the city is a key factor when choosing an airport. The three closest airports to Chicago are O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW), and Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD).
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is the closest, located approximately 17 miles northwest of the Loop. It offers convenient access to the city via highways and public transportation.
Midway International Airport (MDW) is about 10 miles southwest of the Loop. It is closer than O’Hare but has fewer international flights.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is the farthest, at around 85 miles northwest of Chicago. It’s a good option for travelers from the northern suburbs.
Here’s a quick comparison table for clarity:
| Airport | Distance to Loop |
|---|---|
| O’Hare (ORD) | 17 miles |
| Midway (MDW) | 10 miles |
| Rockford (RFD) | 85 miles |
Size And Capacity
The size and capacity of an airport can greatly affect your travel experience. Larger airports often provide more amenities and flight options.
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the world. It has multiple terminals and can handle a large number of passengers and flights daily.
Midway International Airport (MDW) is smaller but still busy. It has a single terminal with three concourses, making it easier to navigate.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is the smallest among the three. It has a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds, offering a stress-free travel experience.
Here’s a summary in table form:
| Airport | Terminals | Annual Passengers |
|---|---|---|
| O’Hare (ORD) | 4 | 83 million |
| Midway (MDW) | 1 | 22 million |
| Rockford (RFD) | 1 | 250,000 |
Airlines And Destinations
The variety of airlines and destinations available can determine the best airport for your trip.
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) hosts most major airlines. It offers flights to numerous domestic and international destinations, making it ideal for global travelers.
Midway International Airport (MDW) is a hub for Southwest Airlines. It focuses more on domestic flights, providing many options within the United States.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) offers fewer airline options but includes flights to select domestic and international destinations. It’s a good choice for specific routes.
For a quick reference, here’s a table:
| Airport | Main Airlines | Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| O’Hare (ORD) | Most major airlines | Global |
| Midway (MDW) | Southwest Airlines | Domestic |
| Rockford (RFD) | Various | Selected routes |
Transportation Options To/from Airports
Chicago, Illinois, has three main airports: O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport, and Chicago Rockford International Airport. Each airport offers various transportation options to and from the city. Knowing your options can help you navigate easily and reach your destination comfortably.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a great option if you prefer to have your own transportation. All three airports have car rental agencies available on-site, offering a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.
At O’Hare International Airport, car rental counters are located in the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). A shuttle bus runs every few minutes from the terminals to the MMF. Major companies like New York Limo, Avis, and Enterprise have a presence here.
For Midway International Airport, the car rental counters are located on the lower level, near the baggage claim area. Here, you will find companies like New York Limo Net, Alamo, and National offering a wide range of vehicles.
- New York Limo Net: Provides limousine services with fixed rates and hourly rates, offering SUVs, stretch limos, minibuses, and coach buses.
| Airport | Car Rental Location | Major Companies |
|---|---|---|
| O’Hare | Multi-Modal Facility | New York Limo, Avis, Enterprise |
| Midway | Lower Level, Baggage Claim | New York Limo, Alamo, National |
| Rockford | Within Terminal | New York Limo, Dollar, Sixt |
Renting a car provides freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore Chicago and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Public Transportation
Chicago has an efficient public transportation system. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses and trains that connect all three airports to the city. The ‘L’ train is a popular choice for many travelers.
For O’Hare International Airport, the Blue Line train runs 24/7, connecting the airport directly to downtown Chicago. It takes about 45 minutes. The fare is affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.
Midway International Airport is connected via the Orange Line. This train also runs frequently and takes around 25 minutes to reach the Loop. The fare is similar to the Blue Line.
For Chicago Rockford International Airport, public transportation options are more limited. You can use the RMTD (Rockford Mass Transit District) buses, which connect the airport to downtown Rockford and then to Chicago.
| Airport | Train Line | Travel Time | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| O’Hare | Blue Line | 45 mins | $5 |
| Midway | Orange Line | 25 mins | $2.50 |
| Rockford | RMTD Buses | Varies | Varies |
Ride-sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are convenient options for traveling to and from Chicago’s airports. These services offer flexibility and comfort, allowing you to choose from a variety of vehicle types, including SUVs and sedans.
O’Hare International Airport has designated ride-sharing pickup areas in Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5. Follow the signs to the designated areas and use the app to request a ride. Average travel time to downtown Chicago is around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
For Midway International Airport, ride-sharing pickups are located on the lower level, outside of the baggage claim area. The travel time to downtown Chicago is approximately 20-30 minutes.
Chicago Rockford International Airport also supports ride-sharing services. Pickup areas are clearly marked, and the travel time to downtown Chicago can be up to 90 minutes.
- Uber: Offers various vehicle options, from economy to luxury.
- Lyft: Similar to Uber, with options for different budget levels.
Credit: upgradedpoints.com
Tips For Travelers
Traveling to Chicago, Illinois, offers a thrilling experience with its vibrant culture, exquisite dining, and iconic landmarks. Knowing the top 3 closest airports to Chicago makes your travel smoother. Here are essential tips for travelers to ensure a seamless journey.
Booking Flights
When booking flights to Chicago, consider the three main airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW), and Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD). Each airport offers different benefits.
- O’Hare International Airport (ORD): One of the busiest airports in the world, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Midway International Airport (MDW): Known for its convenient location closer to downtown Chicago, ideal for shorter domestic flights.
- Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD): Smaller, less crowded, and often has cheaper flights.
To find the best deals, use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Kayak. Set up price alerts to get notified of fare drops.
Consider booking flights during off-peak times. Typically, Tuesdays and Wednesdays offer cheaper flights. Red-eye flights can also save money and time.
Look for airlines that offer flexible booking options. These can help if plans change. Many airlines offer free cancellations or changes within 24 hours of booking.
Navigating The Airports
Each airport in Chicago has its own layout and amenities. Knowing how to navigate them can save time and reduce stress.
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) has four terminals. Terminal 5 handles international flights. Use the free shuttle buses to move between terminals.
Midway International Airport (MDW) is smaller, making it easier to navigate. All gates are in one building, reducing the need for long walks.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is even smaller. It’s quick to get through, and the staff is very helpful.
Most airports provide free Wi-Fi. Use airport maps available on their websites or mobile apps to find gates, restaurants, and services.
For quicker navigation, follow these tips:
- Check in online to save time.
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Use TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for faster security screening.
Security And Customs
Security and customs can be a hassle, but with these tips, you can breeze through.
At O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Terminal 5 has its own customs and immigration facilities. For faster clearance, complete customs forms in advance.
Midway International Airport (MDW) mainly handles domestic flights, so security lines can be shorter. Still, arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) offers a smaller, quicker experience. The lines are generally shorter.
Use the following tips for a smoother security experience:
- Keep your ID and boarding pass ready.
- Wear easy-to-remove shoes.
- Place liquids in a clear, quart-sized bag.
- Remove laptops and large electronics from your bag.
For international travelers, Global Entry can expedite customs clearance. Enroll in advance, and use the dedicated kiosks upon arrival.
Remember, being prepared can make your travel experience much more pleasant. Happy travels!
Credit: www.agoda.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Airport Is Easiest To Get To Chicago?
The easiest airport to reach Chicago is O’Hare International Airport. It’s located 17 miles northwest of downtown. Public transportation options like the CTA Blue Line make it very accessible.
Is It Better To Fly To Midway Or O’hare?
Choose Midway for quicker city access and fewer delays. O’Hare offers more flights and international options. Your preference depends on convenience and destination.
What Are The Three Airports In Chicago?
Chicago has three major airports: O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport, and Chicago Rockford International Airport.
What Is The Closest International Airport To Illinois?
The closest international airport to Illinois is O’Hare International Airport. It is located in Chicago. This airport serves numerous international destinations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right airport near Chicago can save you time and hassle. Whether it’s O’Hare, Midway, or Rockford, each offers unique benefits. Consider your travel needs and preferences. Opting for the closest airport can enhance your travel experience. Safe travels and enjoy your visit to Chicago!