Chicago's Midway Airport: Train Connection Available?

Travellers have a variety of options to get from Chicago Midway International Airport to downtown Chicago. The airport provides a range of transportation options, including taxis, private cars, ride-sharing services, buses, and van shuttles. However, one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to travel between the airport and downtown Chicago is by taking the CTA train to Union Station, as trains are fast, frequent, and avoid the city's notorious traffic.

Transport options from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago

The Chicago 'L' (short for "elevated") is a rapid transit system and the best option for traveling between Midway Airport and downtown Chicago. The Orange Line provides a direct link from the airport to the Loop (Chicago's central business district) and takes approximately 30 minutes. The 'L' is operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and is known for its mostly elevated track, although the Orange Line runs mostly underground. The Midway 'L' station is located at the airport and is accessible from the main concourse. Trains depart every 8–30 minutes, depending on the time of day. The 'L' operates from around 4 am until 1 am daily, with 24-hour service on some portions of the network, including the Orange Line, on Fridays and Saturdays.

From Midway Airport, take an 'L' train heading toward the Loop. Depending on your destination in downtown Chicago, you may need to transfer to another line at one of the Loop stations, such as Roosevelt or Clark/Lake. The 'L' provides convenient access to popular destinations, including Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile. Fares are $3 for a transit card, plus $5 for a pass, and $2.50 for a single-ride ticket.

Another option is to take a taxi or rideshare service. Taxis are readily available at Midway Airport and provide a direct and comfortable journey to downtown Chicago. The trip usually takes around 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available and can be requested through their respective apps. These services may be more cost-effective and offer a similar travel time, depending on demand and traffic conditions.

Finally, several shuttle and bus services operate from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago. Shuttles provide door-to-door service and are a convenient option if you are traveling with a lot of luggage. They usually take around 45 minutes to reach downtown, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Bus services, such as the Midway Express Bus, provide a direct link to the Chicago Transit Authority's Red Line 'L' station at Cumberland Avenue. From there, you can connect to the rest of the 'L' network to reach your final destination.

Pros and cons of taking a train from Midway Airport

There is a train line at Midway Airport that goes to downtown Chicago. The train runs till 1 or 2 am. Here are some pros and cons of taking the train from Midway Airport:

Pros

• The train provides a direct ride from the airport to downtown Chicago.
• The Midway station is considered safe, being located by an airport with federal oversight, and the orange line is also generally considered safe.
• The train may be a more cost-effective option compared to ride-sharing services like Uber, especially if you are travelling on a budget.

Cons

• The area around Midway is described as boring and mostly consisting of strip malls.
• If you are unfamiliar with Chicago and have the budget for it, some travellers suggest opting for a ride-sharing service like Uber for added convenience and peace of mind, especially if your accommodation is not located near the orange line station.
• Travelling with luggage on the train may make you stand out as a visitor, which could potentially make you a target for unwanted attention or theft.

How to get to the CTA station from Midway Airport

The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) station is easily accessible from Midway Airport, providing a convenient way to travel between the airport and downtown Chicago. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get to the CTA station from Midway Airport:

From Baggage Claim, proceed to the Lower Level Roadway outside of the airport. This is where you can find the CTA train station. It is located directly across from the airport terminal, so you don't have to walk far. Look for the elevated train platform and the CTA signs. The train station is called Midway Station and is well-marked.

If you need assistance or have heavy luggage, you can use the escalators or elevators located in the airport terminal to access the Lower Level Roadway. Once you reach the CTA station, purchase a ticket or use your transit card to pass through the turnstiles and access the train platform. The CTA train, also known as the 'L' train, provides service from Midway Airport to various destinations in Chicago. Make sure you board an 'Orange Line' train, which is the line that serves Midway Airport and can take you directly to the Loop (Chicago's central business district).

The Orange Line trains usually arrive every 8-12 minutes, so you won't have to wait long. During peak hours, the frequency can be even higher. When boarding, make sure you are on a train going towards the Loop if your destination is downtown Chicago. Listen for train operator announcements, and check the destination signs on the train to ensure you are heading in the right direction.

The travel time from Midway Airport to the Loop is approximately 25 minutes on the Orange Line. You can enjoy a comfortable ride and take in the city views as the train travels above ground for most of the route. Once you reach your desired stop, you can exit the train and transfer to other CTA lines if needed or simply exit the station and continue your journey in downtown Chicago.

Private transfer services from Midway Airport

Private transfer services are available from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) and can be booked in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey to your destination.

There are several companies offering private transfers from Midway Airport, including Jayride and Transfeero, with a range of vehicle options to suit different budgets and group sizes. Jayride offers private cars, shared shuttles, and luxury vehicles, while Transfeero provides chauffeur-driven airport transfers with professional drivers who ensure a smooth and refined experience.

You can book a private car service with a chauffeur to pick you up from the airport, providing a personalised and exclusive travel experience. These services often allow you to book a driver by the hour, so you can have a car at your disposal for the duration of your trip, making it convenient for sightseeing or business meetings.

If you are travelling with a larger group, you can also opt for private transfer services that offer executive vans, SUVs, and sedans. These can accommodate bigger groups and their luggage comfortably. Additionally, you can compare prices and services from various local transfer companies to find the best option for your needs and budget.

By pre-booking your private transfer service, you can enjoy a hassle-free and timely pickup, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying your time in Chicago.

The cost of transport from Midway Airport

Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) is located just 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. The airport offers various transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

One popular option is to use an airport shuttle service, such as Jayride or GO Airport Express, which offers shared rides in SUVs or vans. These services usually allow you to book in advance, and the cost of the ride varies based on the distance and the city served. For example, GO Airport Express allows you to fill out a reservation form with your pick-up and drop-off information to determine the fare before booking.

Jayride provides a range of options, including private cars, shared shuttles, and luxury vehicles. The cost of booking with Jayride depends on the type of vehicle, distance, and service chosen. They offer the convenience of pre-booking and a seamless, stress-free experience.

Additionally, Midway Airport is accessible by train via the Chicago 'L' (short for "elevated") train system. The CTA Orange Line provides a direct connection from the airport to the city, with trains departing every 8 to 30 minutes. The train fare is $5 during peak hours (6:00 AM–9:30 AM and 3:30 PM–7:00 PM) and $3 at all other times.

For those seeking a more personalized experience, private transfer services are also available at Midway Airport. These can be booked in advance and typically offer a range of vehicle options, including sedans, SUVs, and luxury cars. The cost of these private transfers will vary depending on the company, vehicle type, and distance travelled.

Overall, Midway Airport provides a variety of transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you choose a shared shuttle, private transfer, or public transport, it is recommended to plan ahead and compare prices to find the best option for your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions