Chicago offers two major airport options for travelers: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Understanding their locations relative to each other and downtown Chicago is crucial for efficient travel planning. This guide breaks down the key differences between the two airports, focusing on location and accessibility.
Distance to Downtown Chicago: Midway vs. O’Hare
While both airports serve the city of Chicago, they are situated in distinct areas, impacting commute times and transportation options:
- O’Hare (ORD): Located in the northwest corner of Chicago, approximately 18 miles from downtown’s Loop district.
- Midway (MDW): Situated in the southwest side of Chicago, about 12.5 miles from the Loop.
This difference in distance translates to a significant time savings when traveling to and from the city center.
Transportation Options and Travel Time
Various transportation methods connect each airport to downtown Chicago:
O’Hare (ORD):
- Car: Expect a 40-60 minute drive, often impacted by heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.
- Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Estimated cost around $45.
- Public Transit (CTA Blue Line): A more affordable option with a travel time of roughly 50-60 minutes. Access from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, or via a free shuttle from Terminal 5. Note: Limited luggage space on trains.
- Taxi: Flat rate to downtown is approximately $40.
Midway (MDW):
- Car: A shorter drive of 30-40 minutes to downtown, generally with less traffic congestion than O’Hare. However, anticipate potential delays on Sundays during Chicago Bears games due to traffic near Soldier Field.
- Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Around $30.
- Public Transit (CTA Orange Line): Approximately a 40-minute ride to downtown.
- Taxi: Expect to pay between $35 and $40.
Which Airport is Closer to Downtown?
Midway (MDW) is demonstrably closer to downtown Chicago than O’Hare (ORD), resulting in shorter commute times and potentially lower transportation costs. While O’Hare might be more convenient for those traveling to Chicago’s northwest suburbs, Midway offers a significant advantage for those headed to the city center.
Choosing the Right Airport: Location Matters
Selecting between Midway and O’Hare depends heavily on your final destination within the Chicago area. If your primary destination is downtown Chicago, Midway offers a more convenient location and faster access. However, consider factors beyond proximity, such as airline preferences, flight availability, and specific neighborhood destinations, to make the best decision for your trip.
