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A premium lounge for international business and first-class passengers featuring fine dining, relaxation suites, and premium amenities. Access limited to ticket class holders.
Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Gateway to the Windy City
O’Hare International Airport serves Chicago, Illinois as a major hub connecting travelers across the United States and around the world. With multiple terminals and extensive flight options, it handles millions of passengers each year. The airport includes shops, restaurants, lounges and transportation links to downtown Chicago via train or taxi. Its layout supports both domestic routes and international flights, making it one of the busiest airports in North America. O’Hare offers amenities for business travelers as well as those seeking comfort during layovers.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Chicago O'Hare Airport Summary
O'Hare International Airport is an airport near Chicago in United States. It currently offers regular passenger service to 266 destinations operated by 45 airlines.
Top airlines
United Airlines
(UA)
4495 flights per week
American Airlines
(AA)
3534 flights per week
Delta Air Lines
(DL)
302 flights per week
Top destinations
Cheapest destinations
Best destinations
United States – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
|---|---|
| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
O'Hare International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports and a major gateway to the United States, especially to the vibrant city of Chicago. Spanning a vast area of approximately 78.5 square kilometers, it operates four passenger terminals designed to handle international and domestic traffic efficiently. Though busy and bustling, the airport impresses with its blend of art, relaxation spaces and convenient connections.
Inside the terminals, travelers can appreciate unique art installations like the "Sky’s the Limit" neon sculpture and the Butch O’Hare Exhibit, paying tribute to the airport’s namesake WWII hero. Despite the heavy foot traffic, quiet sanctuaries and a yoga room offer tranquil escapes for weary travelers. Garrett’s Popcorn, a Chicago institution located between Terminals 2 and 3, provides a delicious taste of the city’s famed snack culture.
However, it's wise to approach O'Hare with a bit of caution: connections between terminals, especially involving Terminal 5 (international flights), may require shuttles and security rechecks, sometimes causing delays. Traffic congestion can also impact travel to and from the airport, so extra time is recommended. Nevertheless, the wide range of lounges and excellent public transit options make navigating this giant airport more comfortable.
From world-class lounge options to public transit connections like the 24/7 CTA Blue Line train, O'Hare offers plenty to keep travelers comfortable and entertained, making it more than just a stopover but a place to experience a slice of Chicago's spirit.
Helpful tips for O'Hare International Airport
- Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights for security and boarding.
- Use the free Wi‑Fi network to download maps, flight updates and local transit schedules while waiting in Terminal A or B.
- Check the airport’s real‑time departure board for gate changes; O’Hare frequently reassigns gates during peak hours.
- Explore the Aviation Museum located on the concourse level of Terminal C to learn about Chicago’s aviation history and see historic aircraft up close.
Available airport lounges
United Polaris Lounge (Terminal 1, Concourse C)
United Club (Terminal 1)
Offers comfortable seating, full bars, buffets, and shower facilities. Access for United passengers with elite status or through memberships; day passes available for around US$59 (£44.11).
American Airlines Admirals Club (Terminal 3)
Standard to premium food and drink options with shower facilities and great tarmac views. Access through elite status or membership; day passes available.
Delta Sky Club (Terminal 5)
Known for spacious design, diverse cuisine selections, showers, and wellness rooms. Access reserved for Delta premium customers and members; day passes priced around US$59 (£44.11).
USO Lounges (Terminals 2 and 3)
Dedicated for active military and their families with snacks, gaming, workspaces, and quiet areas. Free access for eligible military personnel.
Where to stay near O'Hare International Airport
The area around O'Hare is well served by a wide variety of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to upscale. Many hotels offer shuttle service to the terminals, making them convenient for travelers with early flights or long layovers. The atmosphere here is more business-focused, with hotel options clustered near the airport rather than for leisure stays.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport
Comfort Suites Chicago O'Hare Airport
Crowne Plaza Chicago Ohare Hotel & Conf Ctr by IHG
Hyatt Regency Ohare Chicago
Sonesta Chicago O'Hare Airport Rosemont
Hyatt Place Chicago Ohare Airport
avid hotels Chicago Ohare Des Plaines By IHG
Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel
Four Points by Sheraton Chicago O'Hare Airport
Hampton Inn & Suites Rosemont Chicago O'Hare
How to get from Chicago O'Hare Airport to popular destinations
To Chicago Downtown:
The most affordable and popular way to reach downtown Chicago is via the CTA Blue Line train, running 24/7 with a journey time of around 40 to 45 minutes. The station is accessible via pedestrian tunnels from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and via shuttle from Terminal 5. Taxis and ride-share services are also available, costing around US$30 (£22.43) to US$40 (£29.90) depending on traffic. Regional buses and shuttles provide alternative transport but may take longer.
To Chicago Suburbs:
Metra commuter trains connect O'Hare to various Chicago suburbs during weekday rush hours, accessible via shuttle to the O'Hare Transfer Station. Pace buses serve broader suburban routes daily from the airport's Multi-Modal Facility, with fares around US$2 (£1.50) to US$2.25 (£1.68). Shuttle buses and car hire provide additional flexibility.
To Nearby Business Districts:
For business districts near O'Hare, taxis and ride-share services offer the fastest routes with flexible schedules. Public transport options like Pace buses reach many suburban office areas, while hire cars are commonly used by business travellers needing mobility.
Top destinations from Chicago O'Hare Airport
Destination
Duration/Price
Weekdays
Airlines
Info
LGA
New York City
2 h 20 min.
£29 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+2
LAX
Los Angeles
4 h 29 min.
£60 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+3
DCA
Washington, D.C.
2 h 05 min.
£80 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+1
ATL
Atlanta
2 h 10 min.
£25 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+3
SEA
Seattle
4 h 43 min.
£75 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+3
MSP
Minneapolis
1 h 43 min.
£65 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+3
Top airlines operating at Chicago O'Hare Airport
Airline
Rating
Skytrax rank
Statistics
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