Chicago O'Hare International Airport

There are a range of parking facilities and rates available for travellers driving to Chicago Airport, including hourly, daily, long-term and economy options. Parking lots can be found close to all four terminals and the Airport Transit System (ATS), Chicago Airport’s people mover, runs frequently between the Multi-Modal Facility (for economy parking) and the terminals. 

Planning an epic American road trip? A number of car rental companies, including Alamo, AVIS, Budget, Enterprise and Hertz, are available at Chicago O’Hare Airport. You’ll find them in the Multi-Modal Facility (accessible via the airport’s people mover). Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Dedicated taxi ranks can be found outside of each terminal at Chicago Airport, making this an easy and convenient way of travelling between the airport and the city centre. Rideshare options, including Uber and Lyft, are also available from loading zones in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.  

Airport shuttles and hotel transfers provide a good balance of convenience and affordability when travelling to or from Chicago Airport. It’s worth organising this in advance, so ask your Travel Expert to help you book airport or hotel transfers today! 

The best way to get from Chicago Airport to Downtown Chicago (and vice versa) using public transport is on board the city’s L rail service. Blue Line trains run 24/7 between O’Hare station and Forest Park, stopping through Downtown Chicago along the way, where passengers can easily transfer to other major rail lines or bus services. See the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) website for up-to-date information on timetables and fares.  

There are two ways to transfer between the domestic terminals (Terminal 1, 2 and 3) and the international terminal (Terminal 5) at Chicago Airport. The Airport Transit System (ATS) is an automated people mover running 24/7 between the terminals, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) for airport parking lots and rental cars. Alternatively, if you’re connecting to another flight and want to avoid going through security twice, you may be able to catch the Terminal Transfer Bus (TTB) service instead. Check the Chicago O’Hare Airport website to confirm current timetables, requirements and pick-up locations.  

As one of the world’s busiest airports, there are lots of different airlines flying into and out of Chicago Airport (ORD). Major carriers include Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. For a more complete list, see the page above. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Chicago Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of ground transportation options available from Chicago Airport to Downtown Chicago (and vice versa), including airport shuttles, taxi and rideshare transfers, car rentals and public transport services like the CTA Blue Line trains.  

Yes, there are a number of lounges at Chicago Airport, including the Air France Lounge, American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club and United Club Lounge. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the lounges at Chicago Airport. 

If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the facilities, opening times and whether you’re able to access any of the lounges at Chicago Airport. Ready to book accommodation for your trip to Illinois? Ask your Travel Expert to help you find the perfect airport hotel or city stay today! 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Chicago booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competitions, exclusive deals and access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Chicago Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

Chicago Airport operates out of four terminals. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are located within the same main terminal building and are primarily used for domestic flights, while Terminal 5 is generally reserved for international arrivals and departures. Make sure you check your flight booking information or boarding pass to confirm your departure or arrival terminal in advance. A free, 24/7 people mover (called the Airport Transit System) runs frequently between the terminals for passengers needing to transfer between them.

Yes, short-term and long-term parking is available at Chicago Airport, including hourly, daily and economy rates. Check with the airport directly for more information on facilities and the current rates. 

Nursing rooms and pods are available throughout the terminals at Chicago Airport, as well as a dedicated family lounge after security in Terminal 2. Families are also welcome to ask at the airport’s Information Desk for a free activity and colour book to keep the kids busy while they wait (subject to availability)! 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at the airport? A number of souvenir and retail stores are available for you to browse before your flight, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check the Chicago Airport terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores with their location and opening hours.

While last-minute sale fares to and from Chicago Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially when booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds.