Owais Crawford
Chicago O'Hare Airport has a growing homeless population, and while it's possible to sleep in the airport, it's not recommended. There are some couches after security/airside in Concourse K, and cots are provided during major flight delays and cancellations. However, the airport does not offer sleep pods, and travellers have reported feeling uncomfortable and unable to get a good night's rest. There is a Hilton hotel within the airport complex, and several other hotels within a 10-minute drive that offer free shuttles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping options at O'Hare Airport | Couches just after security/airside in Concourse K, cots provided during major flight delays and cancellations, sleeping in a chair, onsite hotel at Terminal 2, off-site hotels offering free airport shuttles |
| Other amenities | Lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, fitness center with locker room and shower facilities, pool, sauna and steam room |
| Considerations | O'Hare can get cold, reports of a growing homeless population, better deals at off-site hotels, potential for discomfort and lack of privacy |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping in O'Hare's terminals
Sleeping in airports is never ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. If you're looking to sleep in O'Hare Airport, there are a few things you should know and some places you may want to check out.
First, it's important to note that O'Hare can get cold, so bring a warm jacket or a blanket to keep you warm. There have also been reports of a growing homeless population at the airport, so if you need to spend the night in the public area, you may want to book a hotel instead.
If you do decide to sleep in the airport, there are a few spots that might be more comfortable than others. Some travellers have recommended the couches just after security in Concourse K, and the long soft couch-like structures by the entrance to the C gates in Terminal 1. There are also some lounge chairs in Terminal 1, near the United gates, and a quiet place above the food court between Terminals 2 and 3.
If you're looking for more privacy and comfort, there is an onsite hotel at Terminal 2, the Hilton Hotel. However, this option can be pricey, and you may be able to find a better deal at one of the off-site hotels that offer free airport shuttles.
Finally, cots are sometimes provided during major flight delays and cancellations, but this is not a guarantee. So, if you're planning to sleep in O'Hare Airport, it's best to come prepared with a warm jacket or blanket, and maybe even a travel pillow for added comfort.
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$21.99
O'Hare's homeless population
O'Hare Airport in Chicago has been facing a homelessness crisis. In February 2023, news reports indicated a growing homeless/migrant population at the airport. Denise, a homeless individual, said she slept at the airport when she had to during the winter. The airport's warm and clean environment make it an attractive option for the homeless population.
The number of homeless people in Chicago varies depending on how individuals are counted. While a 2022 report from the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless estimated over 65,600 people in Chicago were experiencing homelessness, Chicago's Department of Family and Support Services recorded a much lower number of 6,139 individuals. The discrepancy in these figures highlights the complexity of quantifying homelessness.
The pandemic has exacerbated the issue, with homelessness in Chicago worsening and more people seeking refuge in public spaces. Chicago's Department of Family and Social Services conducts an annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count to assess the city's homeless population. This count occurred on January 26, 2023, providing a snapshot of the situation.
In response to the growing homelessness crisis at O'Hare, the city has increased its security presence. Police officers have been stationed near the CTA's Blue Line station to deter homeless individuals from entering the airport. From January to March, at least three dozen people were arrested and faced charges, including trespassing. However, these individuals have limited options, and homeless outreach workers advocate for more resources as the population continues to increase.
While some travellers choose to sleep at the airport to save money, they may encounter homeless individuals and a heightened security presence. O'Hare has couches and cots available in certain areas, but these are typically provided during major flight delays and cancellations. For a more comfortable option, travellers can consider the onsite hotel at Terminal 2 or off-site hotels with free airport shuttles.
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Nearby hotels with shuttles
If you're looking for a place to sleep near O'Hare Airport, there are several nearby hotels that offer shuttle services. Here are some options:
Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport
The Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport hotel offers a free shuttle service to and from the airport. While the hotel could use an upgrade in terms of its facilities and equipment, the staff is hard-working and professional, and the complimentary breakfast is quite good. The hotel also offers a spacious layout and is located within walking distance of the airport, making it a convenient option.
Springhill Suites O'Hare
Springhill Suites O'Hare is another hotel located near O'Hare Airport that provides an easy shuttle service to and from the airport. The hotel offers comfortable and spacious suites, an excellent breakfast buffet, fast and reliable Wi-Fi, and a warm indoor pool. It is also situated in the heart of Michigan Avenue, providing easy access to various attractions and amenities.
Other Hotels with Shuttle Services
In addition to the above-mentioned hotels, there are several other hotels in the O'Hare area that provide free shuttle services to their guests. These hotels typically offer various amenities, such as indoor pools, gyms, restaurants, and business centres, along with free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast. Some hotels known for their shuttle service include the Marriott, hotels in Rosemont, and various other hotels listed on travel websites like Expedia, Travelocity, and TripAdvisor.
While these hotels offer convenient shuttle services, it is always a good idea to confirm the availability and schedule of the shuttle with the hotel before your arrival or departure. Additionally, if you are looking for a more affordable option, you may consider sleeping inside the airport or exploring other suggestions mentioned in the guide above.
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Lounges and sleep facilities
O'Hare Airport does not have sleep pods, but there are a few options for lounges and sleep facilities. There are some couch-like structures in Terminal 1, near the United gates, and there are also some couches just after security in Concourse K. There is a quiet place above the food court between Terminals 2 and 3, which is accessible via a laptop. Cots are sometimes provided free of charge in the shelter walkway between Gates E6 and F, but this may only be during major flight delays and cancellations.
There is a hotel within the airport complex, the Hilton Hotel, which is accessible via tunnels from the airport without going outside. It offers day rooms and access to the Fitness Centre, which includes a locker room, showers, a pool, a sauna, and a steam room. There are also other hotels within a 10-minute drive that are cheaper and offer free shuttles to the airport.
If you are looking for a more comfortable and private option, there is an onsite hotel at Terminal 2, but you may find a better deal at one of the off-site hotels that offer free airport shuttles.
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Comfortable spots to sleep
O'Hare Airport can get cold day or night, so bring a warm jacket or a blanket if you plan to sleep there. While the airport does not offer sleep pods, there are a few spots where you may be able to get some rest.
There are some reports of cots being provided free of charge in the shelter walkway between gates E6 and F, and in K1 Terminal 3. However, these cots are usually only provided during major flight delays and cancellations, and employees will wake everyone up at 5 am to vacate the area.
If you're looking for a more comfortable option, there are several lounges that you can access by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or using a lounge membership program. The United Club, for example, offers daily access from 5 am to 9 pm for $59 with proof of a United Airlines or Star Alliance partner ticket.
For an even more comfortable option, there is an onsite hotel located across from Terminal 2, and many nearby hotels offer free airport shuttles. The Hilton Hotel, located within the airport complex, is accessible via tunnels from the airport without having to go outside. While it may be pricey, it is a more comfortable and convenient option than sleeping in the airport.
If you're looking for a cheaper option, consider booking a hotel in the Rosemont area, which offers shuttle services to the airport. Alternatively, you can try sleeping in a chair or on the floor in a less busy area of the airport, but this may not be very comfortable.
Lastly, if you're looking for a place to relax and freshen up without having to leave the airport, KingSpa is a short taxi or Uber ride away and offers showers, whirlpools, saunas, food, quiet spaces, and more.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few spots in O'Hare Airport where you can sleep for free. There are some comfortable couch-like structures by the entrance to the C gates in Terminal 1. There are also some quiet spots above the food court between Terminals 2 and 3. Cots are sometimes provided in the shelter walkway between E and F, but only in the event of cancellations or bad weather.
Yes, there is a hotel situated outside Terminal 2, which offers day rooms. There is also a lounge in Terminal 1, which you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or using a lounge membership program.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including the Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport Hotel, the Best Western O'Hare, and the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Chicago-O'Hare. These hotels offer free airport shuttles.
Yes, you could take an Uber or taxi to KingSpa, which is close to the airport and offers showers, whirlpools, saunas, and food.
