A guide to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) (2024)

by Nick Hagan / May 30, 2024

Estimated reading time:17 minutes

Get the essential information about Chicago O’Hare Airport through our comprehensive guide, covering everything you need to know.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) opened its doors to the public in 1955, and over the years has also been used as a US Air Force base. The name O’Hare and the airport code ORD are both nods to its past; Edward ‘Butch’ O’Hare was the US Navy’s first flying ace, while ‘ORD’ references the site’s former name, Orchard Field Airport.

Today O’Hare is one of the busiest travel hubs in the USA, with over 500 flights daily and over 73 million passengers in 2023. It’s the big sister to Chicago’s Midway International Airport – offering a much larger number of carriers, connections and amenities.

Situated on Chicago’s Northwest Side, O’Hare can be reached from the city center in around an hour. Likewise, it’s only around 17 miles (27 kilometers) from the Loop business district – Chicago’s commercial nexus.

With four terminals and a world record-holding eight runways, there’s no denying that O’Hare is an absolutely colossal piece of infrastructure. The airport boasts so much space that it’s even possible to see the rare phenomenon of two or three planes touching down simultaneously – known as parallel landings.

Due to its capacity and exceptional location in the American Midwest, O’Hare was voted the top US domestic megahub across 2022 and 2023 running.

With so much on offer, we recommend the use of this handy Chicago O’Hare International Airport Map, plus our convenient guide, to get the most out of your time in this amazing airport.

Table of Contents

• Where is Chicago O’Hare Airport
• How to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport
• Chicago O’Hare Airport Parking
  • Reserved Parking
  • Main Garage Hourly Parking
  • Daily Parking
  • Economy Parking
  • Valet Parking
  • Pick-Up Areas
• Chicago O’Hare Airport Terminal Overview
• Airlines Flying Out of Chicago O’Hare Airport
  • Terminal 1
  • Terminal 2
  • Terminal 3
  • Terminal 5
• Lounges at Chicago O’Hare Airport
  • Terminal 1 Lounges
  • Terminal 2 Lounges
  • Terminal 3 Lounges
  • Terminal 5 Lounges
• Chicago O’Hare Airport Restaurants
• Chicago O’Hare Airport Shops
  • Terminal 1
  • Terminal 2
  • Terminal 3
  • Terminal 5 (International Terminal)
• Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotels
  • Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport
  • Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
  • Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel
• Amenities at Chicago O’Hare Airport
• The Best Way to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport

Where is Chicago O’Hare Airport

Address: 10000 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, United States

Phone: +18008326352

How to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport

There are a number of fast, convenient ways to get to O’Hare if you’re not driving.

• Chicago Transport Authority (CTA) Blue Line Train: Want to arrive directly inside the airport with minimum hassle? The CTA Blue Line station is conveniently situated inside O’Hare’s lower level concourse. Choosing the Blue Line train will give you direct transit to and from the downtown area in 45 minutes – with fares costing just $5 or less. Buy your ticket with your contactless bank card, Apple Pay, Android Pay or Samsung Pay. Alternatively you can buy a Ventra ticket (the STA’s payment system) to ride, or top up a Ventra card for multiple journeys. Blue Line trains run 24/7.

• Metra North Central Service (NCS): If you’re traveling to or from Chicago’s northern suburbs, the NCS will get you there in around an hour.Often used by commuters, the Metra has a more limited schedule than the CTA Blue Line – make sure you check ahead to get the transport you need.

• Pace Bus: A direct route to O’Hare can be found via Pace buses, which operate in a number of suburban locations around Chicago. If you’re planning to stay outside the city center, this could be your best bet for reaching your flight.

• Airport Express Shuttle: Get a door-to-door delivery from your base to the airport, with the fast and convenient Airport Express Shuttle. If you’re bringing a lot of luggage with you, this could be the smart option, cutting out the less appealing aspects of public transport. The Airport Express takes approximately an hour from downtown.

• Amtrak: If you’re traveling to O’Hare from a different city, consider an Amtrak train to get you into Chicago. You’ll arrive at the famous Union Station downtown, where you can hop on the CTA Blue Line or opt for a taxi or rideshare to the airport itself.

• Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Parking

Chicago O’Hare Airport offers convenient parking options for travelers. Here are the details:

Reserved Parking

• If you want to book a covered space in advance and save time hunting for a good spot, Level 4 of the main garage offers allocated reservations.
• A covered space can be booked in advance for a $10 fee, not including taxes, fees and the actual cost of parking.

Main Garage Hourly Parking

• For shorter stays, the main garage on level 1 next to O’Hare’s domestic terminals is ideal.
• You can park here for up to 24 hours.
• Prices start at just $3 an hour.

Daily Parking

• Level 2 of the main garage, and lots B and C next to the garage, are for daily parking.
• If you’re planning to keep your car at the airport for a whole day, this could be the smoothest option.

Economy Parking

• Economy parking is also a suitable option for longer trips.
• Covered lots F, G and H are allocated for long-term stays and can be found on floors 4 and 5 of the Multi Modal Facility (MMF).
• Daily rates range from $15 to $22 per day.
• A free shuttle service runs from the economy lots to O’Hare’s various terminals, 24 hours a day.

Valet Parking

• For a comfortable parking option with staff assistance, valet parking is available next to Terminals 1, 2 and 3.
• Prices and services vary – check online before you arrive to find the best option.

Pick-Up Areas

• O’Hare’s curb front pick up area is located outside the lower level – just follow the Arrivals signs to find it.
• Parking here is limited to 15 minutes – so you’ll have to be quick!
• Alternatively, the cell phone lot is available to the south of Lot G. Friends or family can wait here in the car for an arrival, free of charge.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Terminal Overview

With various airlines and amenities spread across four terminals at O’Hare, it’s best to know which zone you’re departing from.

Be aware that the terminals are numbered 1, 2, 3 and 5 – the former Terminal 4 is now a bus depot for the airport. Pedestrian tunnels help you move between terminals, or you can take the Terminal Transport Bus (TTB) during the day to avoid re-entering security. At night this is trickier, as the TTB doesn’t run; passengers will need to exit security and take the Airport Transit System (ATS) before being rescreened. Therefore, we recommend heading to your terminal as early as possible.

Airlines Flying Out of Chicago O’Hare Airport

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 operates on three levels, and Concourses B and C connect passengers to their planes. The airlines operating out of Terminal 1, which include several air taxi services, are:

• Aer Lingus
• Air Canada
• Air China
• Air India (departures)
• Air New Zealand
• All Nippon Airways
• Asiana
• Austrian Airlines
• Avianca
• Avianca Brazil
• Azul
• Brussels Airlines
• Copa
• Ethiopian Airlines
• EVA Air
• ExpressJet
• GoJet
• Lufthansa
• LOT Polish Airlines
• NetJets
• Republic Airlines
• SAS Scandinavian
• Singapore Airlines (departures
• SkyWest
• South African Airways
• SWISS
• TAP Portugal
• TransState Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines

Terminal 2

Here you’ll find Concourses E and F, plus four levels of shops, airport services, waiting areas, and prayer rooms. Airlines flying out of Terminal 2 are:

• Aer Lingus
• Aeroflot
• Aerolineas Argentinas
• Aeromexico
• Air Canada
• Air Canada Jazz
• Air Europa
• Air France
• Air New Zealand
• Air Wisconsin
• Alitalia
• All Nippon Airways
• Asiana
• Austrian Airlines
• Avianca
• Brussels Airlines
• China Airlines
• China Eastern Airlines
• China Southern Airlines
• Copa Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Endeavor Air
• ExpressJet
• GoJet
• Jet Airways
• Kenya Airways
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Lufthansa
• Republic Airlines
• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Sky Regional
• SkyWest
• SWISS (Arrivals only)
• United Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet

Terminal 3

You’ll find Concourses G, H, K and L in Terminal 3, which takes up three levels. Here are the airlines operating out of Terminal 3:

• Aeromexico (arrivals only)
• Air Choice One
• Air Tahiti Nui
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Cape Air
• Cathay Pacific
• China Southern Airlines
• Delta Airlines (arrivals only)
• El Al Israel Airlines
• Emirates
• Envoy Air
• Fiji Airways
• Finnair
• Gulf Air
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Iberia
• Icelandair
• JAL Japan Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Korean Air
• LATAM Airlines
• LATAM Airlines Argentina
• LATAM Airlines Brasil
• LATAM Airlines Ecuador
• Malaysia Airlines
• PSA Airlines
• Qantas
• Qatar Airways
• Royal Air Maroc
• Royal Jordanian
• Singapore Airlines
• SkyWest Airlines
• South African Airways (arrivals only)
• Spirit
• TAP Portugal

Terminal 5

While international flights arrive and depart from all the other O’Hare terminals, Terminal 5, which contains only one concourse (Concourse M), is mostly devoted to international flights. Take a look at the airlines flying out of Terminal 5:

• Aer Lingus
• Aeromexico
• Air Canada (arrivals only)
• Air China (arrivals only)
• Air France
• Air India
• Air Seychelles
• Alitalia
• All Nippon Airways (arrivals only)
• American Airlines (arrivals only)
• Asiana (arrivals only)
• Austrian Airlines
• Avianca
• Avianca Costa Rica
• Azul Airlines (arrivals only)
• British Airways
• Brussels Airlines (arrivals only)
• Cathay Pacific
• Cayman Airways
• China Eastern Airlines
• Copa Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• El Al Israel Airlines (arrivals only)
• Emirates
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Etihad Airlines
• EVA Airlines
• Finnair
• Frontier Airlines
• Gulf Air (arrivals only)
• Hainan Airlines
• Iberia
• Icelandair
• Interjet
• JAL Japan Airways (arrivals only)
• Jet Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Lufthansa (arrivals only)
• Malaysia Airlines
• Norwegian Air UK
• Qatar Airlines
• Royal Jordanian Airlines
• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Singapore Airlines
• SkyWest Airlines (arrivals only)
• Spirit (arrivals only)
• SriLankan Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• SWISS
• TACA
• Thai Airways International
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines (arrivals only)
• Uzbekistan Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

Lounges at Chicago O’Hare Airport

Chicago O’Hare offers some truly outstanding lounges to help you make the most of your visit before you fly.

Terminal 1 Lounges

If you’re flying on United, this is the terminal where you’ll find your lounges. United Club members may use the United Club lounges at Gates B6, B18, and C16. Other United travelers may be able to purchase a one-day pass for $59 per person, if space is available. Star Alliance Gold members also have access to this lounge, which offers food and drink, free Wi-Fi, and printers.

The United Polaris Lounge at Gate C18 is open to international first-class and business-class passengers. Multi-course meals are available, and rest pods and shower facilities give you a chance to freshen up before your flight.

Terminal 2 Lounges

You’ll find another United Club lounge in Terminal 2, with much the same amenities as those in Terminal 1. Head to Gate F9 to relax in this lounge.

Delta also offers its Sky Club at Gate E6. Delta Sky Club members and their guests can take advantage of this spacious lounge, and one-day passes are also available starting from $50 per person. While Sky Club doesn’t offer much in the way of business services, complementary food and drink can help you prep for your flight.

Terminal 3 Lounges

If you’re an Admirals Club member flying American Airlines, JAL or Iberia, the Admirals Clubs in Terminal 3 are available to you. Look for them at Gates G8, L1, H6, and K6. You’ll find complementary food and drinks across each lounge, while some locations also offer business services, made-to-order meals, and shower facilities.

Those flying first-class and business-class on American, as well as qualifying elite AAdvantage members and oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members can relax at the American Flagship Lounges at Gates H6 and K6. Premium wines, specialty co*cktails and personalized meal service await you here, along with shower suites and plenty of space to spread out.

Terminal 5 Lounges

Since Terminal 5 is the international terminal at O’Hare, it’s not surprising to see high-end lounges from several international carriers. The Air France/KLM lounge provides free Wi-Fi and international newspapers to guests not only of these two airlines but also those flying Air India, Alitalia, Royal Jordanian, Etihad Airways, and LOT Polish Airlines. Priority Pass customers also have access to this lounge.

British Airways has a couple of Terminal 5 lounges. Its First Lounge, open to first-class passengers, has separate business and entertainment areas and offers pre-flight, waiter-service dining. The Terraces lounge, for business-class passengers, offers free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and pre-flight dining. Both lounges are near Gate M12, and both are also open to eligible Cathay Pacific passengers.

Other airlines offering lounges in Terminal 5 include SAS, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Finnair. Priority Pass members may use the Swissport Lounge at Gate M7.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Restaurants

Chicago O’Hare Airport offers an impressive range of refreshment and dining options, allowing you to whet your whistle in style before you take to the skies.

• Publican Tavern: Get a tasty slice of Chicago at this trad-style tavern, with a menu inspired by the windy city’s famous restaurant The Publican. Delicious dishes include pork belly sandwiches, mussels and craft beers. The vibe is easygoing and warm – an old-school tavern ambience with modern touches.
• Tortas Frontera: Authentic, fresh Mexican flavor reigns at celebrity chef Rick Bayless’ Tortas Frontera. Try the mouth-watering tortas (Mexican sandwiches) and gorgeous guacamole in a laid back setting that’s perfect for a quick lunch stop before you fly.
• Berghoff Cafe: O’Hare is all about international connections – and this reimagining of Chicago’s famous German-American Berghoff restaurant serves up the heritage with flair to spare. Pretzels, sausages, sandwiches and beer are all on offer.
• Beaudevin: For a luxury option that places the emphasis on exquisite taste, check out the Beaudevin. This wine bar has an extensive selection of wines, complemented by a dazzling array of small plates, cheese boards and charcuterie for pairing. Soak up the sophisticated ambience and unwind before you fly.
• Garrett Popcorn Shops: Enjoy a sweet treat from this Chicago institution. Their awesome Garrett Mix brings caramel and cheese popcorn together in a delicious combo that’s crying out to be taken with you on your trip.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Shops

Like everything else at Chicago O’Hare Airport, shopping is spread out across the various terminals. Choose from the wonderful list of shops below to make the most of your visit with a dose of retail therapy.

Terminal 1

• Hudson News: For books and magazines, Hudson News has you covered. Get some decent reading material for the plane, and stock up on snacks, beverages and travel accessories.
• Tech on the Go: Your tech needs are fully catered to at Tech on the Go, with electronics, tech accessories and mobile accessories all available. Perfect for that travel charger you forgot.
• Coach: Dreaming of a new designer handbag, accessory, or apparel? Luxury store Coach has a world-renowned selection waiting to be added to your wardrobe.

Terminal 2

• MAC Cosmetics: For makeup, skincare products and beauty accessories, MAC goes big and bold. Step off the plane looking your very best.
• Spirit of the Red Horse: Who doesn’t love a little airport Americana? At Spirit of the Red Horse you’ll find all manner of Western apparel, accessories, and gifts all under one roof.
• Barbara’s Bookstore: A long flight is a chance to ditch the screen and double down on some quality reading time. Barbara has you covered, with a great range of books, magazines, gifts, and travel essentials.
• Duty-Free: Take advantage of those tempting duty-free prices, with liquor, tobacco, fragrances, cosmetics and travel-exclusive products all available. Just the place to find a gift for a friend or loved one.

Terminal 3

• InMotion Entertainment: Whether you’re catching up on the latest TV and movies during your flight or getting things done for work, make sure you have the right electronics. InMotion has headphones, travel gadgets and much more.
• Johnston & Murphy:For a special trip, why not invest in style? Johnston & Murphy offer footwear, apparel, and accessories for men.
• L’Occitane: Add premium skincare, bath and body products and fragrances to your collection, with a French twist. L’Occitane has an excellent range for your perusal.

Terminal 5 (International Terminal)

• Michael Kors: Flying international is an excuse to celebrate in style. Michael Kors offers high quality designer clothing, handbags, accessories, and watches.
• Vosges Haut-Chocolat:Live the sweet life, with this gorgeous store’s selection of gourmet chocolates, confections, and gift items. Irresistible.
• Emporio Armani: A powerhouse in luxury fashion, Emporio Armani needs no introduction. Treat yourself to accessories, eyewear and plenty more.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotels

Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport

Location: O’Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL 60666

Why stay near the airport when you can actually stay in it? The Hilton Chicago O’Hare connects you to the terminals via underground walkways, making it remarkably easy to travel between your accommodation, O’Hare’s amenities and, ultimately, your flight.

Absolutely perfect if you’ve got an early morning departure – and the only hotel located directly within the airport.

Of course, you’ll want a good night’s sleep before you fly, and the Hilton’s rooms are sound-proofed to block out aircraft noise and facilitate a refreshed wake-up. Or, if you have a lot of time to kill before the flight and want to spend it in comfort, you can also rent a day-use room.

The Hilton’s range of services is extensive, from room service to concierge and fitness center complete with pool, sauna and steam room. Dining is similarly high quality, with Italian cuisine offered by Andiamo and proper steaks by Gaslight Club.

The Hilton’s Business Center is also world-class, offering meeting rooms, catering, event planning and a full range of copying, packaging, shipping and fax services. Fit for purpose for an important business trip.

As if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also caters for pets – meaning there’s space for your cuddly companion as well as hard-nosed business.

Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago

Location: 9300 Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, IL 60018
Free airport shuttle: Yes

Situated just a 6-minutes drive from Chicago O’Hare Airport, the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago is a stunning contemporary space which is ideal for travelers who value quality and proximity to interesting things to do.

The hotel’s beautiful 11-story atrium is a highlight, as is its location near to key local sites like the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the Rosemont Theatre and Fashion Outlets of Chicago.

Business travelers have an impressive range of services at their fingertips, with over 110,000 square feet of meeting rooms available, including conference rooms and ballrooms. The Hyatt Regency also boasts a 24-hour fitness center, complete with high-quality machines, and features including concierge, laundry and room service.

For dining and unwinding you’re also well-covered, thanks to the O’H American Grill and the hotel bar and lounge. A complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to and from O’Hare tops off the reasons why the Hyatt Regency is an excellent choice of places to stay.

Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel

Location: 5300 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018
Free airport shuttle: Yes

If you’re seeking a cultured experience close to O’Hare, Loews offers luxury and sophistication in spades. Located next to the Rosemont Entertainment District means you’re a stone’s throw from attractions like the Fashion Outlets of Chicago and the Rosemont Theatre, not to mention the regular program of cultural events like live music concerts in nearby Parkway Bank Park.

Amenities at Chicago O’Hare Airport

Chicago O’Hare Airport offers a great range of services and conveniences to enhance your travel experience. Here’s the rundown on the various amenities and where to find them:

• Wi-Fi: Enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi access across terminals, both before you’ve been through security and after. Simply select ‘Free_Ord_Wi-Fi’ or ‘Bongo Hotspot’ on your device to get started.
• Power Stations: Keeping your gadgets and personal devices charged while traveling can be tricky at times. Thankfully, O’Hare boasts power stations in all of its terminals, making it easy and free of charge (pun intended) to juice up your phone, tablet or laptop while you’re in transit. With seated workstations built in, you can also get things done while you’re charging.
• Spa Center: We’ve already mentioned one of O’Hare’s spa service providers, but the airport also contains a dedicated spa center, called the Spa Terminal Gateway. A range of classic wellbeing services are on offer here – full body, chair, Swedish and deep tissue massage; hand, foot and leg treatments; manicures and pedicures and even polish changes and soak offs. The perfect solution for a long layover, or a way to unwind pre-trip.
• Yoga Room: In Terminal 3 at Mezzanine Level Chicago O’Hare Airport has its own special space for visitors to practice yoga, meditation or just general relaxation as part of their wellness routines. Exercise mats are available and the Yoga Room is open 6am to 10pm every day.
• Baby Changing: For moms traveling with babies, Chicago O’Hare provides special rooms for breastfeeding in a private setting. Mothers Rooms provide a sink and wash area within a comfortable, quiet space.
• Banking: Need cash, or other banking services? A variety of ATMs are available both pre- and post-security in all terminals. Or, if you need to speak to a professional, Seaway Bank also has a presence inside each and every terminal – giving you easy access to foreign currency exchange and other banking services.
• Art: Seeking inspiration on your travels? Chicago O’Hare Airport places a big emphasis on art, with paintings, sculptures and other pieces dotted around the site as part of its public art program.
• Water Filling Stations: O’Hare is no slouch when it comes to free water facilities – stations are dotted all over the airport, with a high cleanliness rating. You’ll typically find them nearby the toilets in all terminals.
• Chapel: For those seeking a quiet moment of reflection, the airport’s Chapel can be found at Mezzanine level in Terminal 2.
• Smoking Areas: Designated smoking areas can be found outside the airport. Smoking of any kind, including vaping, is not permitted inside the airport.

The Best Way to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport

When traveling to and from Chicago O’Hare Airport, choose the convenience of Blacklane’s car service. With Blacklane, you avoid the hassle of negotiating with local taxis, the search for parking, the challenge of city traffic, and the complexity of organizing rides. Our experienced chauffeurs ensure a smooth and comfortable trip, helping you reach your destination relaxed and on time.

Explore more than just airport rides; Blacklane also offers long-distance services that make traveling from Chicago to cities such as Milwaukee seamless. For all your transportation needs, trust Blacklane to provide both convenience and reliability.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nick Hagan

Nick Hagan is a freelance writer based in Oxford and Reading, UK. He runs Curio Books and Culture in Oxford, and enjoys writing about culture, travel, film, psychology and just about everything in-between.