O’Hare VS Midway: The Ultimate Guide to Chicago Airports

When you are planning a trip to or from Chicago, one of the most common questions that you’ll have to ask yourself is: O’Hare vs Midway – which airport is top dog? It offers a further contrast to Midway in that it is a major airport and in the realm of one of the biggest in the world, while Midway airport (also in Chicago) is somewhat smaller. Just knowing that can help keep you informed when deciding between a Chicago airport and another nearby airport for your travels. No matter if you’re hopping on the plane for a business trip, a dreamy vacation or a weekend getaway, you can use this in-depth Chicago airports comparison to compare terminals, ease of use, transportation to O’Hare, and more.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Overview

The choice between Midway and O’Hare Airport comes down to your particular travel requirements. If you’re headed abroad or taking a long-haul flight, O’Hare International Airport is what many tend to prefer, given that it serves a much wider range of domestic and international airlines and has a vast global network. In comparison, both in a country stay, for a short trip and an economic way to travel, it is simpler to use Midway Airport. It’s also one of the closest, making for quick access to downtown Chicago. But in terms of having more options and amenities from airlines, O’Hare is the clear winner. Whether it’s O’Hare Airport Chicago or any one of the other three airports that fits your needs, All American Limo is the best choice for Chicago airport transportation – on time, outstanding service, and all the luxury of comfort!

Chicago Midway Airport Overview

O’Hare and Midway International Airports have had long-standing impacts over Chicago’s history of aviation and connect the city to the world. Midway, which was known originally as Chicago Municipal Airport, opened in 1927 and soon became the world’s busiest airport in the 1930s. Renamed after the Battle of Midway in 1949, it also flies fliers from place to place or comes in handy for both visitors and residents who want to make a relatively fast escape.

O’Hare International Airport, built in 1942 as an Air Force assembly plant and re-named in 1949 to honor the heroism in World War II of Edward “Butch” O’Hare, is just a small and relatively uninteresting sliver of a 14,000-acre puzzle that makes Chi-town the busiest in the world. Over the decades, O’Hare grew into one of the busiest and largest airports in the world, with four terminals, eight runways and millions more passengers served annually than Midway.

Midway boasts a much more efficient travel experience that’s lower on the crowds and travel time to downtown Chicago, while O’Hare paves the way for a greater selection of domestic and international flights, and better airport amenities. Regardless of which airport you select, All American Limo will provide you with the finest airport transportation in the city of Chicago. With on-time pickup,fers| chauffeurs, luxury vehicles, and convenient online booking, we guarantee an easy and enjoyable experience when traveling to and from O’Hare and Midway.

O’Hare vs Midway: Distance and Convenience

The second largest city in the U.S., Chicago, is served by two major airports, including O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport, and each has its own advantages. O’Hare, which The New York Times has described as one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the country, runs nearly 1,000 nonstop flights per day to around 230 destinations globally. O’Hare is also convenient and easy to use, with modern and massive facilities, as well as a strategic Midwest location for travelers, whether they are flying near or far. Midway, on the other hand, is something of an anchor for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money to fly, particularly on Southwest Airlines. Midway offers : Midway Airport handles over 220 flights per day and provides more convenient access to North American destinations including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It’s decidedly less dense, but has plenty of food and shopping. Whichever global gateway you’re arriving or departing from – busy O’Hare or the cleverly named Midway – All American Limo arranges effortless luxury airport service to and from ORD and MDW with polite drivers and impeccable service that turns your journey from curb to gate into’s the finest in first-class travel.

Chicago O’Hare Location & Accessibility

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), conveniently located about 17 miles from downtown Chicago, is one of the more rapidly reachable and readily connected airports. Travelers have easy access to the airport by taking the CTA Blue Line — which operates around the clock to and from downtown, Metra trains and regional buses, as well as airport shuttles. And taxi, ride-share, and private shuttle service is abundant, including a designated ride-share pick-up area right outside Terminal 2. For those who are driving, parking options at O’Hare including short-term, long-term, and valet — with all facilities just a few minutes away from the terminals. Renting a car is also easy, as more than a dozen rental companies are located nearby the Airport Transit System. Whether you are coming to our city or going to an O’Hare Limo, All American Limousine offers an airport limo that will get you to your destination safely and comfortably.

 

Airport Parking & Transportation Options

Airport parking in Chicago is available at both locations, but O’Hare offers more extensive long-term options. Still, parking rates and availability can vary.

• Chicago airport transportation: The CTA trains—the Blue Line for O’Hare and the Orange Line for Midway—connect both airports.
• For premium comfort, an airport limo in Chicago is an excellent choice, offering point-to-point service, luggage assistance, and timely drop-offs.

ORD offers extensive parking options:

• Short-term parking: $3/first hour up to $77/day
• Long-term economy lots: Between $15-$22/day
• Valet parking: $26/8 hours or $64/day

Key Distances	Miles	Minutes
Downtown Chicago	18 miles	55 minutes
Magnificent Mile	17 miles	45 minutes
Navy Pier & Millennium Park	18 miles	55 minutes
Wrigley Field	13.5 miles	55 minutes

Chicago Midway Location & Accessibility

With its location only 10 miles from downtown, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the closest airport to the city center for passengers flying to and from the city. Ideally situated for domestic travel, Midway offers a variety of options to pass the time while getting to and from the Airport via the CTA Orange Line, local bus, regional shuttle services, taxis, and rideshares. If you are driving to the airport, there is plenty of parking and all car rental facilities are located in a central facility where 24-hour shuttle service is provided to and from the terminals. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, All American Limousine provides exclusive airport transportation to and from Midway airport that takes the hassle and stress out of your travel experience in Chicago.

 

Midway provides multiple parking choices:

• Daily parking garage: $40/day
• Economy parking lots: $15/day
• Hourly garage: $4/first hour up to $64/day

Key Distances	Miles	Minutes
Downtown Chicago	11 miles	25 minutes
Magnificent Mile	12.5 miles	30 minutes
Navy Pier & Millennium Park	12 miles	25-35 minutes
Wrigley Field	17 miles	50 minutes

Getting Around Chicago Airports: O’Hare Size and Crowds

Chicago has two major airports; O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a global aviation hub. It has more flights and amenities than Midway, but it also tempts vastly more travelers. At a sprawling 7,200 acres, O’Hare is still one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. It handles nearly 200,000 travelers a day and as many as 80 million a year. United Airlines is the largest carrier at O’Hare with four passenger terminals, eight runways, and nearly 200 gates.

Even with its size and crowds, O’Hare is remarkably manageable. Convenient signage, ATS (automated People Mover) train, inter-terminal shuttle buses, and central Link light rail station enable you to swiftly get around the airport. The domestic passenger will also enjoy the convenience of all terminals (Terminal 1, 2, and 3) being within the secure area, with no need to go through security to access connecting flights in other terminals. Some common-use gates are used as well for remote international departures and as an extension of T5 for added domestic capacity; these facilities are connected via the airport’s people mover system to T5. Whether for those headed to a flight or a special occasion, All American Limo also provides top-tier Airport limo service in Chicago to make your trip just as easy as your entry.

With the sheer number of people at the airport, consider expanding your gate hours, especially during busy travel periods. Security lines, gate areas, and dining facilities may be crowded, so brace yourself for potential delays. Relieve the stress of traveling with trustworthy, professional O’Hare airport transportation services from All American Limo. Whether you are thinking of catching a flight or getting home, we have you covered for both.

 

Getting Around Chicago Airports: O’Hare Scale and Crowd Flow

Chicago boasts two huge airfields: O’Hare International Airport (ORD), which is one of the world’s busiest airports. Though it provides more flights and amenities than Midway, it also serves more travelers. O’Hare, at 7,200 sprawling acres, is one of the world’s largest and busiest airports. It carries some 200,000 passengers a day and more than 80 million a year. O’Hare is United Airlines’ largest hub, with four passenger terminals, eight runway,s and nearly 200 gates.

O’Hare is manageable. Despite its size and the constant throngs of pedestrians, it’s easily navigated with clear signs, free inter-terminal buses, an automated People Mover (ATS), and interactive kiosks. National flyers will be glad to know that Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 are connected and can be reached without leaving the secure area. Terminal 5 — primarily an international terminal — requires a short ride on the ATS to access the other terminals. If you’re traveling during busy times, it’s wise to arrive early, as the airport’s high volume can lead to longer lines, crowded gates, and packed dining spots. For a smoother experience, All American Limo offers reliable and professional car services, including limo service to Chicago hotels, ensuring you get to your destination in comfort and style. Chicago Midway Airport, as seen from a commercial airliner: a less busy option.

Airlines & Destinations: O’Hare vs. Midway Airports — Which Chicago Airport is Best for You?

If you’re flying to or from Chicago, you have a choice between O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), depending on where you’re headed and the airline you prefer.

O’Hare Airpot is one of the world’s busiest travel hubs, with nearly 1,000 daily flights to more than 230 destinations worldwide. With nearly 50 international and domestic carriers, such as American, United, Emirates, Qatar and British Airways, O’Hare is great for international trips, long flights and overlapping flights. With reach in large numbers of destinations it is an attractive choice for business and international travelers.

Midway, though smaller, still has roughly 200 daily flights, mostly within the United States. Most importantly, it’s the main hub for Southwest Airlines, so it’s a solid option for those on a budget and for folks who are planning brief domestic trips. Midway also offers some international flights to Mexico, Canada, and Jamaica, though its reach is more regional than O’Hare.

Whether for business or pleasure, All American Limousine’s professional airport transportation services to O’Hare and Midway make sure you arrive to your terminal on time and in style (regardless of which airport you prefer) by providing the reliable transportation you are looking for.

Chicago Airport Services and Amenities

Whether you’re traveling through Chicago O’Hare or Midway, both airports house a range of facilities to ensure passengers remain comfortable and entertained. Passengers have access to a wide array of meal options and retail shops, as well as plenty of workspaces and airline lounges. Every airport also has some particularly special features, and all have seen some significant upgrades to make your journey more pleasurable and fit for the times.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Facilities: Comfort, Dining & More

Chicago O’Hare (ORD) has an amazing array of offerings when it comes to passenger comfort. There are modern, must-haves at each terminal, such as charging stations, business areas and rest spots. One-of-a-kind features include a yoga room in T3, an Aeroponic Garden, and a T1-based replica dinosaur skeleton. Nursing mothers have 24/7 access to lactation pods and Mother’s Rooms in every terminal, and families enjoy the play area in Terminal 2’s Family Lounge.

Dining choices include grab-and-go options and cuisine from celebrity chefs such as Rick Bayless’ Tortas Frontera. Shopping -duty free shops -local souvenir shop -luxury boutiques For relaxation, O’Hare is home to several airline lounges — including United, Delta, American and British Airways — and also offers day passes.

Need to stay overnight? The Hilton Chicago O’Hare is attached to the terminals, with dining, fitness facilities, and meeting space. And O’Hare is amid an $8.5 billion overhaul, hoping to be one of the most next-generation airports by 2032.

Chicago Midway Amenities

Smaller than O’Hare, Chicago Midway also has enough to offer for a convenient and pleasant travel experience. Passengers can appreciate public art installations, a yoga room, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, business centers, family-friendly amenities such as lactation pods, a Mother’s Room, and a kids’ play area near Gate A5. Meanwhile, members of the military can lounge at the USO center on-site.

Dining and shopping: 30-plus restaurants and stores, including BIG & little’s, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Dunkin,’ and FAO Schwarz. MDW Club (Central Market): This more contemporary lounge at the Central Market offers local eats, a bar, and workspaces, and is open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Midway is also in the midst of a $75 million renovation, adding 70,000 square feet of retail and dining. ft., which will include new terminals and parking, to reflect the city’s creative energy.

 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re coming into the world hub of O’Hare or the smaller, closer Midway, both Chicago airports feature everything you expect from a major airport (expect modern facilities, growing services, and quick access to the city). O’Hare is best for international and business travel, given its large number of flight options and luxury lounges; Midway is a champion for domestic flyers and those on a budget.

All American Limo is ready to serve you with a hassle-free airport pick-up and transfers, no matter your selection of airport. Our dependable, luxury “town car service near me” makes sure your trip is comfortable from beginning to end—whether you’re connecting to the city, its surroundings, or beyond. Reserve your next rides with AllAmericanLimo. com and do Chicago travel right

FAQs About Chicago O’Hare and Midway Airports

Which airport is closer to downtown Chicago?
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the closer option, located about 8 miles from downtown. In contrast, O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is around 17 miles northwest of the city center.

How many airports serve the Chicago area?
Chicago is served by two major airports—O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). Additionally, there are smaller regional airports like Gary/Chicago International Airport, roughly a 25-minute drive from downtown.

Which airport should I choose—O’Hare or Midway?
That depends on your travel needs. O’Hare is best for international and business travel due to its extensive flight network and upscale amenities. Midway is a better choice for domestic flights, shorter commutes to the city, and travelers seeking a faster, more streamlined experience.

Where is Midway Airport located?
Midway sits on the southwest side of Chicago, just 8 miles from downtown. It’s typically a 15–20 minute drive, depending on traffic.

What dining options are available at the airports?
Both airports offer diverse food selections. O’Hare features Chicago favorites like Garrett Popcorn and Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless. Midway offers popular spots like Potbelly and Arami Sushi Bar. Dining and retail options are continually expanding at both airports.