Chicago is served by multiple airports, with O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) being the two primary ones within the city. O'Hare is the main hub, renowned for its vast international connections and status as one of the busiest airports globally. It boasts the most runways worldwide and provides non-stop flights to 249 destinations across continents. Midway, located closer to the city center, is a major hub for domestic travel with a focus on low-budget and Southwest Airlines flights. There are also nearby airports like Chicago Rockford International and Gary/Chicago International that serve different roles such as cargo and general aviation, but the main choice for most travelers remains between O'Hare and Midway.
Each airport has distinct advantages: O'Hare offers the most international flights and a wide range of shopping and dining options, while Midway is favored for its proximity to downtown and shorter distances for travelers. Understanding the differences in connections, transport options and passenger amenities can help travelers select the best airport for their Chicago trip.
| Airport | Main role | Flight Connections | Transport to City | Proximity | Shopping & Food | Other Passenger Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| O'Hare International Airport (ORD) | Main international and domestic hub | Non-stop flights to 249 destinations worldwide, including global international connections | CTA Blue Line train to downtown (~45 min, $5), taxis (~$40), shuttle vans, private cars | 17 miles (27 km) northwest of downtown Chicago | Extensive options including sit-down restaurants like Berghoff Cafe, fast food, gourmet markets, and bars across 4 terminals | Largest number of runways worldwide, four major terminals with 215 gates, direct highway access, airport transit system connecting terminals |
| Midway International Airport (MDW) | Secondary airport focused on domestic and low-cost travel | Primarily domestic flights, major base for Southwest Airlines covering over 90% of traffic | CTA Orange Line train to downtown (~25 min, $2.50), taxis (~$25), shuttles | 12 miles (19 km) southwest of downtown Chicago | Good selection of fast casual dining and shops including national chains and local eateries | One terminal with 43 gates, international customs facilities, easier and quicker for downtown access |
| Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) | Cargo hub with limited commercial passenger service | Limited low-cost leisure flights | Limited public transit, mostly car or taxi | 85 miles northwest of downtown Chicago | Minimal shopping and dining options | Major UPS regional parcel-sorting center, mainly cargo operations |
| Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY) | General aviation and potential commercial service | Limited scheduled commercial flights, mostly corporate and general aviation | Mostly car, limited public transit | 25 miles southeast of downtown Chicago | Minimal facilities | Serves as the 'third airport' for Chicago metro area, growing facilities for business aviation |
Choosing the right airport in Chicago depends on your travel needs – O'Hare International offers the broadest range of international and domestic flights with comprehensive amenities, while Midway is an excellent choice for quicker access to downtown and budget domestic travel. For cargo or private flights, Rockford and Gary airports serve specialized roles but have limited commercial passenger services. Evaluating your priorities regarding connections, convenience and airport facilities can help you decide the best gateway for your trip to Chicago.
If you are looking for detailed info on the different Chicago airports, click on the airport profiles below.
