Owais Crawford
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) is approximately 10 miles from Chicago Union Station. There are several ways to get from the airport to the station, including by train, subway, bus, or car. The train is the most popular option, with the CTA rail line offering a fast and frequent service between the two locations. The entire journey, including waiting and walking, takes approximately 1 hour. The subway is another option, taking around 33 minutes and costing $2-5. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive, which will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, or 15 minutes, respectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance | 10 miles |
| Driving Time | 15-17 minutes |
| Public Transport Options | Subway/Train, Bus, Taxi |
| Subway/Train Time | 33-40 minutes |
| Subway/Train Cost | $2-5 |
| Subway/Train Frequency | Every 15 minutes |
| Bus Time | 1 hour 13-18 minutes |
| Taxi Time | 30 minutes |
| Taxi Cost | $25-30 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Take the Orange Line train
To get to Union Station from Midway Airport, you can take the Orange Line train. This is a quick and easy way to travel between the two locations. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Get to the CTA Station
First, you need to get to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) station from Midway Airport. You can do this by walking or taking a short bus ride. The CTA station is located about a half-mile away from the airport, so if you're walking, just follow the signs or use a map to find your way.
Step 2: Purchase a Ticket
Once you arrive at the CTA station, you'll need to purchase a ticket. The tickets are typically priced between $2 and $5, and the machines accept both cash and card payments.
Step 3: Board the Orange Line Train
With your ticket in hand, look for the Orange Line train platform. All Orange Line trains will take you to Union Station, and they come frequently, usually every 5-15 minutes during the day. Make sure you don't accidentally get on a Pink Line train, as these go in a different direction.
Step 4: Enjoy the Ride
The train ride from Midway Airport to Union Station takes approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on transfers and traffic conditions. During the ride, you can enjoy the views of Chicago and relax as you're transported directly to Union Station.
Step 5: Disembark at Union Station
When you reach Union Station, simply disembark the train and make your way to your desired destination. Union Station is a major transportation hub, so there are plenty of options for further travel if needed.
Taking the Orange Line train is a straightforward and affordable way to get from Midway Airport to Union Station. By following these steps, you can navigate this journey with ease and efficiency.
Bringing Cigars Through Airport Security: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Walk to Washington Street
To get to Washington Street from Union Station, exit the station and walk along the Chicago River (south branch) with the water on your right. You will then cross the river, crossing Wacker Drive and Franklin Street, before arriving at Wells Street.
This route is described as "an easy walk" and "very pleasant". It is also noted that Chicago is laid out as a grid, with streets going north-south and east-west, making it "very easy to negotiate".
From Wells Street, you can take the Orange Line train to Midway Airport. These trains depart every 5-10 minutes during the day and take around 25-30 minutes. The entire journey from Union Station to Midway Airport, including walking and waiting time, takes approximately 1 hour.
If you are travelling with a lot of luggage or small children, you may prefer to take a cab to Midway Airport, which will take around 30 minutes and cost approximately $30. However, it is noted that cabs may be difficult to hail, and there are stairs to navigate when reaching the cab stand.
What Documents to Bring to the Airport?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Take the subway
To get from Midway Airport to Union Station in Chicago, taking the subway is a convenient option. The Chicago 'L' is the city's extensive subway system, and it provides a direct and affordable way to travel between Midway Airport and Union Station. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this journey:
Step 1: Get to the CTA Station
Firstly, you need to reach the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) station from Midway Airport. This typically involves walking to the CTA station closest to the airport, which is about a 7-minute walk. From Midway Airport, walk west along Adams or Jackson towards the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), and you will find the entrance to the CTA station just after crossing the Chicago River.
Step 2: Purchase a Ticket
Once you arrive at the CTA station, you will need to purchase a ticket. The fare is usually around $2 to $5, and you can buy a single-ride ticket from the farecard machines using cash or a card.
Step 3: Board the Orange Line Train
After purchasing your ticket, follow the signs to the correct boarding platform for the Orange Line train. Make sure to check the colour-coded destination signs to ensure you are boarding the correct train. The Orange Line train is the one you will take to reach Union Station. These trains typically arrive every 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day.
Step 4: Disembark at Union Station
The Orange Line train will take you directly to Union Station. Depending on your source, this journey can take around 33 to 40 minutes, including transfers. Once you arrive at Union Station, you can exit the train and proceed to your desired destination within the station or the surrounding area.
Taking the subway is a cost-effective and relatively quick way to travel between Midway Airport and Union Station. While there are other options, such as taxis or private shuttles, the subway provides a convenient and frequent service that can save you money. Additionally, it is important to consider the time of day and your luggage situation when choosing your mode of transportation.
Travel Comfort: Blankets Allowed at Airports?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Travel by bus
To get from Chicago Midway Airport to Union Station by bus, you can take a Chicago Transit (CTA) bus from Midway Orange Line Station to Union Station via Cicero & 24th Place, Cicero & 24th Place Terminal, and Jefferson & Jackson. This journey takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Clinton & Jackson to Midway Orange Line Station via Cicero & 24th Place in around 1 hour and 18 minutes.
If you are travelling from Union Station to Midway Airport, you can take a bus east down Adams St. to either Quincy or Washington/Wells stations, and then get on an Orange Line train to Midway. The Orange Line train comes every 5-10 minutes during the day and takes around 25-30 minutes. The total journey time for this route is around 34 minutes, with 7 minutes of walking.
Guatemala Airport: Sleep or No Sleep?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Get a cab
If you prefer to take a cab, head to the East exit of Union Station to get a taxi. The driving distance from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Chicago Union Station is 10 miles, and the journey takes approximately 15-17 minutes.
Taking a cab may be the most straightforward option if you have lots of luggage, as taking public transport with suitcases can be a challenge. For example, the Quincy station, which is on the Orange Line, does not have an elevator, so getting up the stairs with lots of bags might be difficult.
However, if you are travelling light, you may find that taking the subway or bus is a cheaper option. The subway from Midway to Quincy takes around 25-33 minutes, including transfers, and departs every 15 minutes. Tickets cost $2–5. The bus from Midway Orange Line Station to Chicago Union Station takes around 1 hour and 13-18 minutes.
If you are unfamiliar with Chicago, you may prefer to take a cab or rideshare to get to your destination. However, if you are comfortable navigating a new city, the public transport options are straightforward and affordable. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your budget, luggage situation, and comfort level with navigating new cities.
How to Fly into Page, Arizona: Airport Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The best way to get from Midway Airport to Union Station is by taking the CTA Orange Line train from Midway Station to Quincy Station. This journey takes between 25 and 40 minutes and costs $2-5. From Quincy Station, you can walk to Union Station in around 7 minutes.
Walk up to the platform and buy a ticket from the attendant. Ask the attendant where the Orange Line is if you are unsure.
You can take a bus from Midway Orange Line Station to Union Station via Cicero & 24th Place, which takes around 1 hour 13-18 minutes. You can also take a taxi, which will cost around $30 and take half an hour.
The distance between Midway Airport and Union Station is 10 miles.
