Ruth Haines
Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located in the northwest suburbs of the city, and there are several ways to get downtown from the airport. The most popular option is the CTA Blue Line train, which offers a quick and affordable connection to downtown Chicago for as little as $2.50 one way or $5 for a 24-hour ticket. For those with more luggage or seeking more comfort, taxis, private shuttles, and limo services are also available, although they are more expensive, with prices starting at $75. Peoria Charter also operates a bus service from Terminal 2 to the city centre twice daily for $50.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Chicago |
| Airport Name | O'Hare International Airport (ORD) |
| Downtown Transportation Options | Blue Line Train, Taxi, Uber, Private Shuttle/Limo Services, Peoria Charter Bus, Metra Commuter Rail |
| Blue Line Train Features | Fast, Affordable, Convenient, Runs Every 10 Minutes, 24-Hour Pass for $5 |
| Taxi Information | Available at Lower Level of Baggage Claim and Terminal 5 |
| Private Shuttle/Limo Services | Starting at $75 |
| Peoria Charter Bus | Twice Daily from Terminal 2, $50 Ticket Price |
| Metra Commuter Rail | O'Hare Transfer Station, Inconsistent Schedule, No On-Site Agent |
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What You'll Learn
Blue Line train
The CTA Blue Line train is a prominent public transportation option at O'Hare, providing a fast, convenient, and affordable connection to downtown Chicago. It is ideal for travellers with minimal luggage and is praised for its low cost—a 24-hour ticket costs around $5.
The Blue Line train runs from O'Hare to downtown every 10 minutes, with tickets costing a few dollars. The journey takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can purchase tickets from the train conductor or opt for a day pass, which is good for 24 hours.
The Blue Line train is easily accessible from the airport, with clear signs directing you to the train platform. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective and efficient way to get downtown, although it is recommended to plan for potential delays and overcrowding during peak hours.
Compared to other transportation options, such as taxis, private shuttles, or limo services, the Blue Line train is a more economical choice. While these private services can cost upwards of $50 to $75, the Blue Line train offers a similar journey at a fraction of the price.
Overall, the Blue Line train is a convenient and affordable option for travellers looking to get from O'Hare Airport to downtown Chicago. With its frequent departures and low ticket prices, it is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
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Taxi
Taking a taxi is a convenient way to get downtown from O'Hare International Airport. The airport is about 17.5 miles from downtown Chicago, and the drive can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Several taxi companies offer flat-rate taxi services to and from O'Hare Airport, with rates ranging from $50 to $75, depending on your destination and any additional services required. For example, if you are travelling with children, you may need to request a car seat, which some taxi companies provide. Other additional services could include SUVs or minivans.
Some taxi companies that service O'Hare Airport include O'Hare Taxi, O'Hare Fast Ride Taxi & Limousine, and O'Hare Taxi Now. These companies provide transportation to downtown Chicago and other nearby areas, such as Midway Airport and Southern Illinois. They also offer limo rides and shared taxi ride services, which can be a more affordable option if you are willing to share your ride with others heading in the same direction.
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Shuttle or limo services
GO Airport Express provides a shared-ride airport shuttle service with SUVs, as well as private car services to and from O'Hare International Airport. They offer door-to-door transportation, picking you up or dropping you off at most locations throughout the city and suburbs. You can book their services to Chicago hotels, downtown businesses, near north residential locations, and suburban areas.
Another option is to use a private limo service, which can often be arranged through your hotel. For example, Lafayette Limo Inc. offers a Share-a-Ride service between O'Hare Airport and various locations on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette, Indiana. They also provide private services to and from the airport, but these must be reserved 24 hours in advance. The cost for a one-way ticket is $55, and for a round trip, it is $110.
Additionally, some hotels like the Hyatt may offer their own limo services. You can contact them via email or phone to inquire about their private limo services and compare their rates with other shuttle services.
When considering shuttle or limo services, it's essential to factor in the cost and your specific transportation needs. While shuttle services may be more economical, especially for larger groups, limo services offer a more exclusive and luxurious experience. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices to find the best option for your budget and preferences.
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Metra commuter rail
Currently, Metra operates 12 trains to and from O'Hare Monday through Friday on its North Central line. These trains provide service from O'Hare to downtown Chicago's Union Station. During the Democratic National Convention in August 2024, Metra offered temporary O'Hare express service, increasing service from 7 inbound and 7 outbound trains per weekday to hourly inbound and outbound trains seven days a week.
Metra has expressed interest in expanding its service to O'Hare, with CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski stating that the company is moving towards making expanded O'Hare service a reality. This expansion would include dedicated equipment for O'Hare service, including vehicles designed to handle luggage.
However, there are challenges to expanding Metra's service to O'Hare. The company shares tracks with freight trains and Amtrak, which has led to capacity issues. Additionally, Chicago's transit system is facing a fiscal crisis that could result in service cuts across CTA, Metra, and Pace if funding solutions are not identified. Despite these challenges, Metra's long-term vision includes providing express service from O'Hare to downtown Chicago, offering commuters a faster and more efficient travel option.
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Uber
Yes, you can use Uber to get from O'Hare Airport to downtown Chicago. Ubers are readily available at the airport at all hours of the day and night, with wait times varying by the time of day. Generally, you can get an Uber within 10 minutes, and sometimes as quickly as 5 minutes.
To request a ride, open the Uber app and input your destination. The app will then suggest ride options that suit your group size and luggage needs. You can also check the app for current prices and available ride options. One premium option is Uber Black, which offers luxury vehicles, professional drivers, and exceptional service.
The exact location of the pickup zone will depend on several factors, including your arrival gate/terminal, arrival time, airport regulations, construction, and where you are when you request a ride. However, the app will provide directions to the pickup zones when you request a ride.
If you cannot find your driver, you can contact them through the app. You can also schedule a ride in advance, up to 90 days ahead of time.
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Frequently asked questions
The fastest way to get downtown is by taking the Blue Line train, which locals refer to as "the L". The train runs every 10 minutes and takes around 35-45 minutes to get downtown. Tickets are $5 for a 24-hour pass or $2.50 for a one-way ride.
Other options include taking a taxi, private shuttle, limo service, or bus. Taxis are readily available outside the baggage claim area on the lower level of each terminal. Shuttle and limo services start at $75, whereas the bus operated by Peoria Charter costs $50 for a one-hour ride.
The Blue Line train costs $5 for a 24-hour pass or $2.50 for a one-way ride. Tickets can also be purchased for $3.75 to Union Station.
The Blue Line train runs frequently, departing every 10 minutes or so.
