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How to Get to Chicago

How to Get to Chicago

Chicago Illinois, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports

Chicago is served by two main airports.

Airport Details

  • O'Hare International Airport (ORD): One of the busiest airports globally, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. It sits approximately 17 miles (27 km) to the to the northwest of downtown Chicago.
  • Midway International Airport (MDW): Mainly serving domestic flights, an important hub for Southwest Airlines. It is closer to downtown, located approximately 10 miles (16 km) southwest.
  • Both airports provide numerous restaurants, diverse shopping options, duty-free stores, Wi-Internet access, currency exchange services, and car rental counters.

Airlines and Routes

Chicago offers extensive connectivity.

Flight Options

  • O'Hare (ORD): United Airlines and American Airlines maintain main centers. Numerous international carriers and domestic airlines also operate. Flights straight to major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and some South America and Africa destinations.
  • Midway (MDW): Southwest Airlines dominates Midway, offering a wide range of domestic routes. Other airlines also serve Midway. Mainly offers direct flights to U.S. Cities.
  • Seasonal Flight Availability and Price Fluctuations: Prices generally peak during summer plus national holidays. Shoulder seasons often mean better value. Winter typically has the lowest prices. Flexibility may result in savings. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

CTA Blue Line ORD

$5 (Ventra Card), 45-60 minutes travel time. Direct access to the city center Loop; operates 24/7.

Taxi/Rideshare ORD

$40-60+, 30-90 minutes (traffic dependent). Convenient door-to-door service. Surcharges apply during peak hours. Get AirHelp if flights are delayed.

CTA Orange Line MDW

$2.50 (Ventra Card), 20-30 minutes. Direct access to the city center Loop; operates frequently.

Transfer Options from Airports to City

O'Hare Transfers

  • Airport Shuttles: $30-40, 45-90 minutes. Shared ride services transport passengers to various downtown locations.
  • Taxi/Rideshare (MDW): $25-40+, 20-45 minutes (traffic dependent). Convenient door-to-door service.
  • The CTA train lines offer the most cost-effective and often quickest way to reach downtown from both airports, especially during rush hour.
  • Dedicated taxi stands and clearly marked rideshare pick-up areas exist at the two O'Hare and Midway airports.

Airport Facilities

  • Both O'Hare and Midway airports have restaurants, diverse shopping, plus duty-free stores.
  • Wi-Connectivity is available throughout the terminals.
  • Currency exchange services are on offer.
  • Car rental counters and baggage services are also available.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Chicago is the main hub for Amtrak, the national passenger rail system, with connections to major cities across the U.S. (Union Station). Metra commuter rail serves the Chicago metropolitan area.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound and Megabus services connect Chicago to cities nationwide. They mainly operate from the Downtown Chicago Bus Station.

Self-Driving

Renting a car for downtown Chicago travel is generally not recommended due to excellent public transportation, expensive parking, and heavy traffic. A car can be useful for day trips outside the city. DiscoverCars.com for renting.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departures

Sea/River Arrivals

While Chicago is on a large body of water, it doesn't serve as a key port for international arriving by sea.

Water Travel Info

  • No major a ferry to another country services or cruise ports for ocean-going vessels operate in Chicago.
  • Lake Michigan hosts some recreational being on a boat and smaller local cruises.
  • The Chicago River is mainly for architectural boat tours, water taxis (seasonal), and recreational boating. These serve as local transportation or tourist attractions.

Departure Information

Ensure a smooth departure from Chicago.

Exit Process

  • No specific exit fees or taxes apply to departing travelers from the U.S. Beyond what is typically included in your airfare.
  • For international flights from O'Hare (ORD), arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, at O'Hare (ORD) allow at least 2 hours, and at Midway (MDW) 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Allow extra time during peak travel seasons, major holidays, or if you need to check luggage. Security screening wait times vary.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car for downtown Chicago travel is generally not recommended due to excellent public transportation, expensive parking, and heavy traffic.

Driving & Requirements

  • A current driver's'a license from your home nation. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested if if your license is not In english.
  • Proof of insurance is also necessary. The minimum age for rental cars is typically 21, however some companies require 25 to avoid a young driver surcharge.
  • Major highways around Chicago are generally well-maintained. Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours.

Road Rules & Parking

Navigation can be challenging for those unfamiliar with urban driving. Always adhere to speed limits and traffic laws.

City Driving Tips

  • Standard U.S. The rules of the road apply. Drive on the right side. Seatbelts are required for all occupants. Always make a stop at red lights and obey posted speed limits.
  • Parking is very expensive in the central business district garages. Street parking is often metered and can be limited. Residential street parking requires a permit.
  • Use parking apps like SpotHero or ParkChicago to find and pay for parking spots.

Border Crossing & General Guidance

  • Border crossing information is not applicable for domestic getting around the U.S.
  • For international arrivals overland (e.g., from Canada or Mexico), standard U.S. Entry requirements, including passport and potentially a visa or ESTA, apply.
  • Amtrak and Metra services connect Chicago to major cities and suburbs.
  • Long-distance bus choices include Greyhound and Megabus.
  • No major international ferry services or cruise ports operate.
  • Water taxis along the Chicago River connect to various points, providing access to CTA lines.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

Chicago's public transit system, run by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), provides an good way to explore the city.

Overview

  • The CTA operates both 'L' (elevated and subway trains) and a vast bus system. This the system is extensive and covers most key visitor areas, attractions, and residential neighborhoods. It links to the airports and provides a reliable way to get around.
  • Maps of the two 'L' and bus systems are available at stations and on the official CTA website. Digital maps on navigation apps also provide real-time route information.
  • Ventra Card: This is a reusable, reloadable smart card accepted for all CTA and Metra (commuter rail) services. Purchase from automated retail machines at 'L' stations or retail locations (Walgreens, CVS).

Fares and Operations

Fare Options & Hours

  • Single-Ride Fare: A single ride on 'L' trains costs $2.50 with a Ventra Card. Buses: $2.25 with Ventra, $2.50 cash (exact change). Pace (suburban bus service) also accepts Ventra.
  • Passes: 1-Day CTA Pass: $5, 3-Day CTA Pass: $15, 7-Day CTA Pass: $20. These passes offer unlimited rides on CTA trains and coaches, saving money for frequent use.
  • 'L' Trains: Red and Blue lines operate 24/7. Other lines have varying hours (4 AM to 1 AM or later). Frequency varies by line and time of day.

Accessibility

The CTA actively works towards improving accessibility. All CTA buses are accessible, and most 'L' train stations have elevators or ramps.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed taxis are yellow or white. Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Chicago. Always confirm driver details for safety.

Walking & Cycling

Chicago has pedestrian-friendly zones like the Loop, Magnificent Mile, and the Lakefront Trail. Divvy bike-share and bike rental shops are available.

Rental and Self-Driving Options

Car Rental Information

Renting a car for downtown Chicago travel is generally not recommended due to excellent public transportation, expensive parking, and heavy traffic.

Requirements & Companies

  • Valid driver's license. AN international driving priving is it's a good idea if not in English.
  • Major credit card in renter's name.
  • Minimum age 21, young driver surcharge for those YOUNGER than 25.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Navigation can be tough for those unfamiliar with urban driving. Always adhere to speed limits and traffic laws.

City Driving Tips

  • Standard U.S. The rules of the road apply. Drive on the right side. You must wear seatbelts for all occupants.
  • Roads are generally well-maintained, though potholes can appear. Expressways experience congestion during rush hour.
  • Parking is very expensive in downtown garages. Street parking is often metered plus few. Residential street parking requires a license.

Bicycle Sharing & Rentals

Divvy Bike-Share

Chicago's official bike-share program, Divvy, provides thousands of bikes and docking stations throughout the city.

Purchase Options

It's possible to purchase a single trips, day passes, or annual memberships via the Divvy app.

Bike Rental Shops

Numerous independent bike rental shops also offer daily or multi-day rentals of several bike types, including road bikes and hybrid bikes.

Travel Logistics

Seamless arrival and departure encounters are possible with careful planning. Utilize mass transit for urban travel.

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