
Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and research opportunities. When it comes to accessibility by air, the closest airport to Northwestern University is Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Situated approximately 18 miles south of the university, O'Hare Airport is a major transportation hub serving the Chicago metropolitan area. It offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it convenient for students, faculty, and visitors to reach Northwestern University from various locations around the world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Chicago O'Hare International Airport |
| Distance from Northwestern University | Approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) |
| Travel Time by Car | Around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic |
| Public Transportation Options | Yes, via CTA Purple Line and Metra Union Pacific North Line |
| Airport Code | ORD |
| Number of Terminals | 4 |
| Airlines Serving | Major airlines including American, United, Delta, and Southwest |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | Over 70 million passengers |
| Facilities | Restaurants, shops, lounges, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and more |
| Parking Options | Short-term, long-term, valet, and economy parking available |
| Accessibility Features | Wheelchair accessible, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry available |
| Nearby Hotels | Several options including Hyatt Regency O'Hare and Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport |
| Dining Options | Wide variety including fast food, casual dining, and fine dining |
| Entertainment Options | Bars, lounges, and live music venues |
| Shopping Options | Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and boutiques |
| Security Features | Advanced security screening, surveillance cameras, and security personnel |
| Environmental Initiatives | Sustainability programs, energy-efficient facilities, and waste reduction efforts |
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What You'll Learn
- Chicago O'Hare Airport: Located about 17 miles from Northwestern University, it's the closest major airport
- Chicago Midway Airport: Situated approximately 22 miles from the university, offering domestic flights
- Milwaukee Mitchell Airport: About 90 miles away, serving as an alternative with fewer crowds
- Gary/Chicago Airport: Roughly 35 miles from Northwestern, providing regional flight options
- Airport Transportation: Various options like taxis, shuttles, and public transport connect Northwestern to nearby airports

Chicago O'Hare Airport: Located about 17 miles from Northwestern University, it's the closest major airport
Chicago O'Hare Airport, situated approximately 17 miles from Northwestern University, stands as the closest major airport to the institution. This proximity offers significant advantages for travelers visiting the university, whether they are prospective students, current students returning from breaks, faculty members, or guests attending campus events. The relatively short distance translates to quicker travel times and potentially lower transportation costs compared to other regional airports.
One of the key benefits of O'Hare's closeness to Northwestern is the convenience it provides for international travelers. As one of the busiest airports in the world, O'Hare offers a wide range of international flights, making it an ideal gateway for those coming from abroad. This accessibility is particularly valuable for Northwestern's diverse community, which includes students and faculty from over 100 countries.
Moreover, the airport's extensive domestic flight network ensures that travelers from across the United States can easily reach Northwestern. With numerous airlines operating at O'Hare, there are ample options for flights, often resulting in competitive pricing and flexible scheduling. This is especially beneficial for students and faculty who may need to travel frequently for academic conferences, research collaborations, or personal reasons.
For those making the journey from O'Hare to Northwestern, various transportation options are available. These include taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, public transportation via the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), and private car rentals. The university also offers a shuttle service for students, faculty, and staff, providing a direct and cost-effective link between the airport and campus.
In conclusion, Chicago O'Hare Airport's proximity to Northwestern University is a significant asset, offering convenience, accessibility, and cost savings for travelers. Its extensive international and domestic flight networks, combined with a variety of transportation options to and from the university, make it an ideal choice for those visiting Northwestern.
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Chicago Midway Airport: Situated approximately 22 miles from the university, offering domestic flights
Chicago Midway Airport, located approximately 22 miles from Northwestern University, is a convenient option for domestic travelers. This airport offers a range of flights to various destinations within the United States, making it an ideal choice for students and faculty members looking to travel domestically.
One of the key advantages of Chicago Midway Airport is its proximity to the university. The 22-mile distance can be easily covered by car or public transportation, making it a more accessible option compared to other airports in the area. Additionally, the airport's focus on domestic flights means that travelers can avoid the hassle of international travel, such as lengthy security checks and customs procedures.
Chicago Midway Airport also offers a variety of amenities and services to make the travel experience more comfortable. From dining options to retail stores, travelers can find everything they need to make their journey more enjoyable. The airport also provides convenient parking options, making it easy for travelers to park their cars and access the terminal.
For those looking to travel domestically, Chicago Midway Airport is a great choice due to its location, convenience, and range of services. Whether you're a student heading home for break or a faculty member attending a conference, this airport can meet your travel needs.
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Milwaukee Mitchell Airport: About 90 miles away, serving as an alternative with fewer crowds
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, located approximately 90 miles from Northwestern University, serves as a viable alternative for travelers seeking to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger airports. This airport, while not the closest in terms of distance, offers a more relaxed and less crowded environment, which can be particularly appealing to those who value a smoother travel experience.
One of the key advantages of Milwaukee Mitchell Airport is its smaller size, which translates to shorter lines at security checkpoints and immigration, as well as a more manageable layout for navigating terminals and gates. This can save travelers significant time and reduce the stress associated with air travel. Additionally, the airport's location in Milwaukee provides access to a charming city with its own attractions, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the historic Pabst Theater, offering a pleasant diversion for those with layovers or extended travel plans.
Travelers opting for Milwaukee Mitchell Airport can reach Northwestern University via a combination of driving and public transportation. The airport is well-connected to major highways, making it a straightforward drive to the university. Alternatively, passengers can utilize the airport's shuttle services or public buses to reach a nearby train station, from which they can take a train directly to Northwestern University's campus.
In terms of flight options, Milwaukee Mitchell Airport is served by several major airlines, providing a range of domestic and limited international routes. While the selection may not be as extensive as that of larger airports, it is sufficient to accommodate the needs of most travelers. Furthermore, the airport's smaller scale often results in more competitive pricing, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals.
Overall, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport presents a compelling option for those traveling to Northwestern University, particularly for those who prioritize a less hectic airport experience. Its proximity, combined with its smaller size and accessible transportation options, makes it a noteworthy alternative to consider when planning a trip to the region.
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Gary/Chicago Airport: Roughly 35 miles from Northwestern, providing regional flight options
Gary/Chicago Airport, located approximately 35 miles from Northwestern University, offers a range of regional flight options for travelers. This airport, also known as Gary International Airport, serves as a convenient alternative to the larger O'Hare International Airport, which is situated further away from the university. The airport's proximity to Northwestern makes it an attractive choice for students, faculty, and visitors looking to access regional destinations without the hassle of navigating through a major international airport.
One of the key advantages of Gary/Chicago Airport is its focus on regional connectivity. The airport is served by several airlines that operate flights to various cities within the Midwest and beyond, providing travelers with easy access to a wide range of destinations. Additionally, the airport's smaller size and less congested environment can make for a more relaxed and efficient travel experience, particularly for those flying within the region.
Travelers flying into Gary/Chicago Airport can take advantage of a variety of ground transportation options to reach Northwestern University. The airport is accessible via major highways, making it easy to drive or take a taxi to the university. Public transportation options, such as buses and trains, are also available, providing affordable and convenient ways to travel between the airport and the university.
In terms of amenities, Gary/Chicago Airport offers a selection of dining and shopping options for travelers. The airport features several restaurants, cafes, and retail stores, allowing passengers to grab a bite to eat or pick up any last-minute travel essentials before their flight. Additionally, the airport provides various services, such as luggage storage and rental car facilities, to cater to the needs of its passengers.
Overall, Gary/Chicago Airport serves as a practical and convenient option for travelers looking to access regional destinations from Northwestern University. Its location, regional flight options, and range of amenities make it an attractive choice for those seeking a more relaxed and efficient travel experience.
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Airport Transportation: Various options like taxis, shuttles, and public transport connect Northwestern to nearby airports
Navigating airport transportation can be a daunting task, especially when trying to reach a specific destination like Northwestern University. Fortunately, there are several options available to make the journey smoother. Taxis, shuttles, and public transport are all viable means of connecting Northwestern to nearby airports, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.
Taxis offer a direct and convenient way to travel between Northwestern and the airport. They can be hailed on the spot or booked in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. However, taxis can be more expensive than other options, especially during peak travel times or in heavy traffic. It's also important to ensure that the taxi is a reputable service to avoid any safety concerns.
Shuttles are another popular choice for airport transportation. Many hotels and universities, including Northwestern, offer shuttle services to and from the airport. These shuttles are often more affordable than taxis and can be a more comfortable option for travelers with luggage. However, shuttle schedules may be limited, and travelers may need to plan their trips around the shuttle's availability.
Public transport is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for traveling between Northwestern and the airport. Chicago's "L" train system and buses provide convenient connections to both O'Hare and Midway airports. Travelers can use the CTA website to plan their route and check schedules. While public transport may require more time and effort than taxis or shuttles, it can be a reliable and affordable option for those who are comfortable navigating the city's transit system.
In conclusion, there are several airport transportation options available to connect Northwestern University to nearby airports. Each option has its own set of advantages and considerations, and travelers should choose the option that best fits their needs and preferences. By planning ahead and considering factors such as cost, convenience, and schedule, travelers can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey to and from the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
The closest airport to Northwestern University is Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), located approximately 12 miles away from the university's main campus in Evanston, Illinois.
You can reach Northwestern University from Chicago O'Hare International Airport by taking a taxi, rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or by using public transportation. The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) Purple Line train is a convenient option, with the Noyes station being the closest to the university's Evanston campus.
Yes, another option is Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), which is located about 20 miles away from Northwestern University. However, O'Hare International Airport is generally the more convenient choice due to its proximity and wider range of flight options.
When deciding between O'Hare and Midway airports, consider factors such as flight availability, airline options, and your specific travel needs. O'Hare International Airport offers more flights and airlines, making it a better choice for international travelers or those with tight schedules. Midway International Airport, while further away, may offer more affordable flights or be more convenient for travelers coming from certain parts of the country. Additionally, consider the transportation options and costs from each airport to Northwestern University when making your decision.











































