Jazmin Li
Chicago is served by two airports: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Both airports have their pros and cons, and which one is better depends on the traveller's preferences and needs. O'Hare is larger and serves more passengers, while Midway is smaller and less crowded. O'Hare is better connected for international travel, while Midway is more convenient for domestic travel. O'Hare is located in the northwest of the city, while Midway is in the southwest and offers easier access to downtown. In this article, we will explore the strengths and weaknesses of each airport and help you decide which one is the best choice for your travel needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | O'Hare: Northwest Chicago; Midway: Southwest Chicago |
| Number of terminals | O'Hare: Multiple; Midway: One |
| Distance from downtown | O'Hare: 45 minutes to an hour; Midway: 30 minutes |
| Traffic | O'Hare: Prone to rush hour traffic; Midway: Less prone to traffic delays |
| Transport options | O'Hare: Taxi, ride-hailing services, Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line rail, Pace buses; Midway: Uber, Lyft, taxi, Chicago Transit Authority Orange Line train |
| Transport cost | O'Hare: $40 by taxi, $35-$60 by ride-hailing; Midway: $30-$40 by taxi, $30 by rideshare |
| Passenger volume | O'Hare: 7 million passengers/month; Midway: 2 million passengers/month |
| Food options | O'Hare: More variety; Midway: Better for authentic Chicago deli food |
| Business travel | O'Hare: More extensive flight options and business services |
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What You'll Learn
Chicago Midway Airport is better for domestic travel
Chicago Midway Airport is the better option for domestic travel. It is conveniently located in the southwest of the city, offering easier access to the city centre. It is also less prone to traffic delays than O'Hare, which is situated in the northwest. While O'Hare has multiple terminals, which can make it more time-consuming to navigate, Midway is a smaller airport, allowing travellers to move through it faster.
Midway is also more accessible via public transportation. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line train connects Midway to downtown in around 25 to 40 minutes, and the ride is affordable. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available, and parking facilities, though smaller, are convenient for those who prefer to drive.
Additionally, Midway is generally less crowded, serving about two million passengers per month compared to O'Hare's seven million. This can result in shorter wait times and a more relaxed travel experience, especially during peak seasons. If you prefer an even quieter atmosphere, consider travelling during off-peak months, such as late fall or early spring.
When it comes to food options, Midway excels in one key category—authentic Chicago deli food. Manny's Deli, for example, serves up classic dishes like juicy Reuben sandwiches, matzo soup and potato pancakes. However, O'Hare offers a wider variety of culinary choices overall.
In summary, Chicago Midway Airport is the preferred choice for domestic travel due to its convenient location, easier accessibility, faster navigation, and more relaxed atmosphere.
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O'Hare International Airport is better for international travel
O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and is a hub for international travel. Located in the northwest of Chicago, it is a sprawling complex with multiple terminals. While it may take a little longer to get in and out of due to its size and rush hour traffic, O'Hare offers a host of benefits for international travellers.
Firstly, O'Hare is served by a greater number of international carriers than Midway International Airport. This means more choice and potentially better deals for travellers flying internationally. O'Hare is also a hub for major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and British Airways, which often include international flights in their schedules.
Another advantage of O'Hare for international travellers is its efficient connection process. For those with a domestic-to-international connection, there is no need to go through security or passport control again, as long as you remain behind the security barriers. This can save time and reduce stress when navigating this large airport. Additionally, O'Hare provides lounges and clubs, such as the Admirals Club and the Flagship Lounge, which can be accessed by business-class travellers or those with relevant memberships.
Furthermore, O'Hare has convenient transport links to downtown Chicago. While it is approximately 30 miles from The Loop (Chicago's central business district), travellers can use the Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line rail, which is the cheapest option, or opt for ride-hailing services or cabs. Although traffic can be a factor, with some planning, travellers can efficiently get to and from the airport.
In conclusion, while Midway International Airport may be preferable for domestic travel due to its convenience and shorter commute, O'Hare International Airport is the better choice for international travel. With its range of international carriers, efficient connection processes, and transport links to the city, O'Hare offers a more comprehensive and seamless experience for those travelling beyond domestic borders.
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O'Hare is better for business travel
O'Hare International Airport is the clear winner for business travel. With its extensive flight options and numerous business services, O'Hare has everything you need for a successful trip. The airport features multiple lounges where travellers can work or relax, making it ideal for corporate travellers looking to maximise their time.
O'Hare is a sprawling complex in Chicago's northwest corner, serving about seven million passengers through 189 aircraft gates each month. It offers a host of international carriers and expansive domestic route networks through airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines. This means there aren't many destinations you can fly to from Midway that you can't access from O'Hare.
When it comes to transportation, O'Hare is well-connected to the city through the Blue Line of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), along with multiple bus services. The Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line rail is the cheapest option for travelling downtown, available from Terminals 1, 2 or 3 or via a free airport shuttle from Terminal 5. Cabs charge a flat rate of around $40 to go downtown, while ride-hailing services cost anywhere between $35 and $60. O'Hare also boasts a larger parking facility, accommodating those with extra luggage or planning to leave their cars for an extended period.
While Midway International Airport might offer more convenient access to the city and better food options, O'Hare ultimately provides more flight options and business services, making it the better choice for business travel.
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Midway is better for shorter commutes
Midway International Airport (MDW) is better for shorter commutes. Located in the southwest of Chicago, Midway is roughly 30 minutes from The Loop, the city's central downtown business district. It is generally less prone to traffic delays than O'Hare, although travellers may encounter traffic on Sundays when the Chicago Bears play at Soldier Field, as Interstate 55 runs past the field en route to the airport.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line train between Midway and the city is affordable and the ride takes about 25 to 40 minutes. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available, and parking facilities, though smaller than O'Hare's, are convenient for those who prefer to drive.
Midway is also preferred for its shorter security wait times and better food options. One source says:
> "I've rarely, if ever, had a stressful flight experience at Midway, but O'Hare is always a mess."
However, it is important to note that O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located in the northwest of the city and serves about seven million passengers per month, compared to Midway's two million. O'Hare has more extensive flight options, particularly for international travel, and numerous business services, making it ideal for corporate travellers.
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O'Hare is better for food options
Chicago is served by two airports: O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. While both airports have their pros and cons, O'Hare stands out when it comes to food options.
O'Hare is a sprawling complex in Chicago's northwest corner, serving about seven million passengers through 189 aircraft gates each month. Midway, on the other hand, is a smaller airport located in the southwest side of the city, serving about two million passengers per month through 43 aircraft gates.
When it comes to culinary options, O'Hare offers a wider variety of choices due to its larger size. The airport caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences with its extensive selection of restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience, O'Hare is sure to have something to satisfy your hunger.
In contrast, Midway's smaller size limits its culinary offerings. However, it does excel in one specific category: authentic Chicago deli food. Midway's food court features several classic city restaurants and bars, including Manny's Deli, renowned for its juicy Reuben sandwiches, matzo soup, and potato pancakes.
If you're a foodie or simply enjoy having a variety of dining options while travelling, O'Hare is likely to surpass your expectations. The airport's vast array of culinary choices ensures that you can indulge in a different dining experience every time you pass through. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a more upscale dining venture, O'Hare has something to tantalize your taste buds.
In summary, while Midway may have its charms and conveniences, O'Hare takes the lead when it comes to food options. With its multitude of dining establishments, O'Hare caters to a broad spectrum of palates, ensuring that travellers can find something to suit their culinary cravings. So, if you're a gourmand seeking a delightful airport dining experience, O'Hare International Airport in Chicago is the clear choice.
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Frequently asked questions
O'Hare International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the world, with extensive flight options and numerous business services. It is ideal for corporate travellers with multiple lounges and direct access to downtown Chicago via the Blue Line. It also has a larger parking facility and a host of international carriers.
Midway International Airport is closer to downtown Chicago and is, therefore, more convenient for those looking for shorter travel times. It is also less prone to traffic delays and has better food options. It is also generally less busy, making for a more relaxed travel experience.
Midway International Airport is the superior airport for domestic travel. It is easier to get to and from, with shorter security lines. It is also less busy, with fewer people and problems, making for a more pleasant airport experience.
