Closest Airport to Downtown Chicago: Midway vs. O’Hare
Introduction
Choosing the right airport in Chicago significantly impacts your time, convenience, and overall travel experience. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a layover, selecting the best airport for fast downtown access is essential. Chicago has two major airports—Midway (MDW) and O’Hare (ORD)—each offering different benefits based on flight availability, transportation options, and amenities.
If you're looking for a stress-free, luxurious airport transfer,
Executive 1 Limousine provides premium car services to and from both Midway and O’Hare, ensuring a smooth ride to your destination.
Table of Contents
- What is the Closest Airport to Downtown Chicago?
- How Far is O’Hare International Airport from Downtown Chicago?
- Which Airport is Better for Traveling to the City: O’Hare or Midway?
- What is the Best Way to Get from Midway Airport to the Loop?
- What is the Best Way to Get from O’Hare Airport to the City Center?
- Which Airport Has More International Flights, O’Hare or Midway?
- Which Airport is Less Crowded, O’Hare or Midway?
- How Much Does a Taxi or Uber Cost from the Airports to Downtown Chicago?
- Is Public Transportation from the Airports Safe?
- Which Airport is Best for Business Travelers Going Downtown?
What is the Closest Airport to Downtown Chicago?
The closest airport to the heart of Chicago is Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), located approximately 10 miles southwest of the central business district. This makes Midway the most convenient choice for travelers looking for a quick commute.
As an alternative, O’Hare International Airport (ORD) sits 17 miles northwest of the city. While further away, O’Hare is a major international hub offering more flight options and better connectivity for global travelers.
How Far is O’Hare International Airport from Downtown Chicago?
O’Hare is approximately 17 miles from downtown Chicago. Travel time varies based on transportation choices:
- Public Transportation (CTA Blue Line): ~40–50 minutes.
- Taxi or Ride-Share: ~30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
- Shuttle & Private Car Services: Varies based on service type and traffic conditions.
Which Airport is Better for Traveling to the City: O’Hare or Midway?
Choosing between O’Hare and Midway depends on your priorities:
- Midway is closer to downtown, making it ideal for quick trips.
- O’Hare offers more domestic and international flight options.
Key Differences:
- Midway: Smaller, easier to navigate, shorter security lines.
- O’Hare: Larger, more amenities, longer wait times.
What is the Best Way to Get from Midway Airport to the Loop?
There are multiple ways to travel from Midway to downtown Chicago:
- Public Transportation (CTA Orange Line): The Orange Line train takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the city center.
- Taxi or Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft): Travel time is about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Shuttle & Private Car Services: Prices and travel times vary, with premium services offering a more comfortable ride.
For a stress-free ride with a professional chauffeur, Executive 1 Limousine allows travelers to book a private car service for a smooth trip.
What is the Best Way to Get from O’Hare Airport to the City Center?
From O’Hare, travelers can choose from several transportation options:
- Public Transportation (CTA Blue Line): The Blue Line train takes about 40–50 minutes to reach downtown.
- Taxi or Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft): Travel time ranges from 30–60 minutes based on traffic conditions.
- Shuttle & Private Car Services: Costs vary, but private transfers offer a more convenient and hassle-free option.
Which Airport Has More International Flights, O’Hare or Midway?
O’Hare is Chicago’s primary international gateway, offering flights to destinations worldwide. It serves as a major hub for global travel, accommodating numerous international airlines.
Midway, on the other hand, has limited international routes, primarily to Canada, Mexico, and select Caribbean destinations. If you need direct flights to Europe, Asia, or South America, O’Hare is the better option.
International travelers should also factor in customs and immigration processing times, which tend to be longer at O’Hare due to its volume of global flights.
Which Airport is Less Crowded, O’Hare or Midway?
O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 73 million passengers annually. With such high traffic, security lines, baggage claim, and check-in counters can experience significant delays, especially during peak hours.
On the other hand, Midway processes around 22 million passengers per year, making it a quieter and less congested option. Security lines tend to be shorter, and navigating through the terminal is usually faster and more efficient.
Key Comparison:
- O’Hare: Heavy passenger volume, longer wait times, extensive terminal areas.
- Midway: Smaller airport, quicker check-in, shorter security lines.
For those who prioritize a stress-free airport experience with minimal wait times, Midway is the preferred choice. However, travelers using O’Hare should plan ahead and arrive early to allow time for check-in and security.
How Much Does a Taxi or Uber Cost from the Airports to Downtown Chicago?
The cost of a taxi or ride-share service from either airport to downtown Chicago depends on demand, time of day, and traffic conditions. Below is an estimated fare breakdown:
Airport Taxi (Flat Rate) Uber/Lyft (Variable Pricing)
O’Hare (ORD) $50–$60 $40–$70
Midway (MDW) $35–$45 $30–$50
What Affects the Cost?
- Surge Pricing: Ride-share fares fluctuate based on demand, with peak hours (rush hour, late nights, and event days) leading to higher prices.
- Traffic Conditions: Heavy congestion can increase fare totals, especially for taxis operating on a metered rate.
- Time of Day: Late-night or early-morning rides may have higher base fares due to lower availability of drivers.
Is Public Transportation from the Airports Safe?
Chicago’s public transit system is widely used and generally safe. The CTA Blue Line (O’Hare) and CTA Orange Line (Midway) are popular with both locals and visitors. For added safety, travel during busy hours and stay aware of your belongings.
For travelers arriving late at night, it may be more comfortable to take a taxi or a pre-arranged car service rather than public transportation.
Which Airport is Best for Business Travelers Going Downtown?
Midway offers quicker access to downtown, making it ideal for short business trips. However, O’Hare provides more flight options, which is beneficial for international business travelers. The best choice depends on the traveler’s itinerary and priorities.
O’Hare also has multiple airline lounges, VIP services, and business-friendly amenities, making it the preferred option for frequent corporate travelers.
Which Airport is Best for Business Travelers Going Downtown?
Midway offers quicker access to downtown, making it ideal for short business trips. However, O’Hare provides more flight options, which is beneficial for international business travelers. The best choice depends on the traveler’s itinerary and priorities.
O’Hare also has multiple airline lounges, VIP services, and business-friendly amenities, making it the preferred option for frequent corporate travelers.
Conclusion
Which airport is best? It depends on your needs.
- Choose Midway if you want a fast, easy trip to downtown.
- Choose O’Hare for better international and domestic flight options.
Regardless of your choice, securing your transportation in advance will make your journey even smoother. Book a premium airport transfer today with Executive 1 Limousine and enjoy a seamless arrival or departure with professional chauffeurs and luxury vehicles.
