Chicago O'Hare International Airport
Chicago, United States · Since 1944
Last updated:
About ORD
Chicago O'Hare International Airport, named after World War II flying ace Edward "Butch" O'Hare, is one of the busiest airports in the United States and the world. Located approximately 14 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, O'Hare has served as a major airline hub since the jet age began and remains central to American aviation. The airport operates four terminals with nine concourses, connected by the Airport Transit System (ATS). O'Hare is famous for its operational complexity, handling a staggering number of daily flights. A massive modernization program is underway to add a new global terminal and improve the overall passenger experience.
Why "ORD"?
ORD comes from the airport original name, Orchard Field, which was built on the site of a Douglas aircraft factory during World War II. The field was renamed O Hare in 1949 after Navy pilot Edward "Butch" O Hare, a Medal of Honor recipient.
Hub For
Airlines Operating
United Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Finnair, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Air France, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Japan Airlines, ANA, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, EVA Air, Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Aeromexico, LATAM, Copa Airlines
Terminals
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the primary hub for United Airlines. This modern terminal features the famous underground pedestrian tunnel connecting Concourses B and C, lined with a mesmerizing neon light sculpture by Michael Hayden. Recently renovated gates and expanded dining options make this one of the busiest terminals at O Hare.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 handles Delta Air Lines and some United domestic flights. A smaller terminal undergoing significant renovation as part of the O Hare 21 modernization program. Features convenient connections to Terminals 1 and 3 via airside connectors.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is the main hub for American Airlines, the largest carrier at O Hare. The terminal spans Concourses G, H, K, and L, making it the largest terminal complex at the airport. The Admirals Club lounges here are among the largest in the American Airlines network.
Terminal 5 (International)
Terminal 5 handles all international arrivals and most international departures (except those operated by United and American from their domestic terminals). The terminal features Global Entry and TSA PreCheck lanes, a large duty-free area, and the only international arrivals hall at O Hare. Connected to the domestic terminals by the free ATS people mover train.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at ORD
Getting There & Away
CTA Blue Line train runs 24/7 to downtown Chicago in 45-60 minutes ($5.00). Metra North Central Service commuter rail connects to downtown and northern suburbs. Pace suburban buses serve surrounding communities. Taxis to downtown cost approximately $40-60 plus tip. Uber and Lyft available at designated areas in each terminal. GO Airport Express shared shuttles to downtown hotels and suburbs. Rental car center accessible via ATS train. Excellent interstate highway access via I-90 and I-190.
Taxi
$35-55 (metered, plus tip and tolls)
30-60 minutes depending on traffic to city center
Public Transport
$5 (CTA Blue Line)
45 minutes to downtown Loop to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at ORD
Main Parking Garage
Economy Parking Lot E
Economy Parking Lot F
Terminal 5 Parking
Airport Lounges
United Polaris Lounge
One of the finest airline lounges in the United States. Features a full a la carte restaurant, craft cocktail bar, shower suites with spa products, daybeds, and beautifully designed spaces. The menu changes seasonally and includes dishes by renowned Chicago chefs. A highlight of flying through O Hare.
American Airlines Flagship Lounge
American Airlines premium lounge with a la carte dining, premium wines and spirits, shower suites, rest spaces with daybeds, and a dedicated concierge team. Significantly more upscale than the standard Admirals Club with better food and service.
Delta Sky Club (Terminal 2)
Recently renovated Delta Sky Club featuring a full-service bar, hot food offerings, premium seating, and a relaxed atmosphere. Shower facilities available. The club features floor-to-ceiling windows with good tarmac views. Amex Platinum card provides access.
British Airways Galleries Lounge
British Airways dedicated lounge in Terminal 5 offering a buffet with British and international dishes, a well-stocked bar with wines and spirits, shower facilities, and work areas. A comfortable pre-flight space for transatlantic travelers.
United Club (Terminal 1 Concourse B)
Large United Club in Concourse B with ample seating, complimentary drinks and snacks, hot food bar, shower facilities, and a dedicated work area. Can get crowded during peak travel times, especially in the afternoon.
Minute Suites
Private suites with daybeds, workstations, and sound masking technology. Available by the hour in Terminal 3, Concourse K. Perfect for long layovers or delayed flights. Shower facilities included. No food/beverage service but provides a quiet, private rest space.
American Airlines Admirals Club (Concourse H)
The largest Admirals Club at O Hare located in Concourse H. Offers complimentary snacks and beverages, a premium bar, shower rooms, and business center. The club was recently renovated with improved seating and dining options.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Hilton Chicago O Hare Airport
Connected to Terminal 2 via an enclosed pedestrian walkway across the parking structure
The only hotel directly connected to O Hare terminals. Walk through the indoor skybridge from Terminal 2 without going outside. Full-service hotel with multiple restaurants, fitness center, indoor pool, and business center. Day-use rooms available. The most convenient option for layovers.
Nearby Hotels
Holiday Inn Chicago O Hare Area
On Touhy Avenue, free shuttle from all terminals (10-minute ride)
Reliable mid-range option with comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and 24-hour airport shuttle. Recently renovated rooms. Good value for overnight stays with early-morning flights. Close to Rosemont entertainment district restaurants.
Aloft Chicago O Hare
On Mannheim Road, free shuttle from all terminals (7-minute ride)
Trendy and modern hotel with a loft-inspired design, W XYZ bar, splash pool, and complimentary shuttle to the airport. Pet-friendly. The RE:MIX lounge is a great spot for socializing. Good value for a stylish airport stay.
Crowne Plaza Chicago O Hare Hotel & Conference Center
On Bryn Mawr Avenue, free shuttle from all terminals (8-minute ride)
Full-service hotel with comfortable rooms, on-site dining, indoor pool, fitness center, and a large conference center. Free airport shuttle runs every 15 minutes. Day rooms available for layover passengers. Quiet rooms available for light sleepers.
Hyatt Regency O Hare
On Bryn Mawr Avenue, free shuttle from all terminals (5-minute ride)
Modern hotel with spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and meeting facilities. Free 24-hour airport shuttle. The recently renovated lobby and rooms offer a comfortable experience. Popular with business travelers.
Food & Dining
Garrett Popcorn Shops
Snacks / Popcorn
Iconic Chicago popcorn shop famous for the Garrett Mix (a blend of caramel and cheese popcorn). A must-try Chicago treat and a great gift to bring home. Lines can be long but move quickly. The large tins make excellent souvenirs.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Billy Goat Tavern
American Burgers
Chicago legendary tavern immortalized in the Saturday Night Live Cheezborger sketch. Simple, no-frills burgers and hot dogs. The double cheeseburger is the classic order. A taste of authentic Chicago character and history.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Starbucks
Coffee / Cafe
Multiple Starbucks locations throughout O Hare for reliable coffee, espresso drinks, pastries, and light meals. Mobile ordering available to skip the line. The busiest locations are in Terminal 1 Concourse C and Terminal 3 Concourse K.
4:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless
Mexican
Celebrity chef Rick Bayless brings his award-winning Mexican flavors to O Hare. Famous for gourmet tortas (Mexican sandwiches), guacamole, and breakfast chilaquiles. Uses locally sourced ingredients. Widely considered the best restaurant at O Hare.
5:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Giordano's
Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago famous stuffed deep-dish pizza right at the airport. Thick, cheesy, and loaded with toppings. Allow 30-40 minutes for a fresh pizza to be made. Personal-size pizzas available for quicker service. An essential Chicago food experience before flying out.
10:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Reggio's Pizza
Italian / Pizza
Chicago-style thin-crust and deep-dish pizza in the international terminal. Slices available for quick bites or full pies for groups. Italian-American classics like pasta and salads also on the menu. Good option for a satisfying meal before a long international flight.
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
Enterprise
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
Avis
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
Budget
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
National
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
Alamo
Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) connected via ATS train from all terminals
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Neon Light Tunnel (Sky is the Limit)
Walk through the famous underground neon light tunnel connecting Terminal 1 Concourses B and C. Michael Hayden installation features color-changing neon lights synced to music. A quintessential O Hare experience and a must-see for any visitor. Free and accessible to all ticketed passengers in Terminal 1.
Urban Garden (Terminal 2)
A living rooftop garden visible from the rotunda of Terminal 2. Features seasonal herbs, vegetables, and plants grown using aeroponic towers. The produce is used by some airport restaurants. Educational displays explain urban farming. A unique green space in an unexpected setting.
Yoga Room (Terminal 3)
A free, dedicated yoga and meditation room in Terminal 3 with yoga mats, blocks, and instructional cards. A quiet space to stretch and decompress during a layover. Dimmed lighting and calming decor create a peaceful atmosphere away from the terminal bustle.
O Hare Airport Art Program
O Hare features one of the most extensive airport art programs in the world. Rotating exhibitions and permanent installations are displayed throughout all terminals. Notable works include a Brachiosaurus dinosaur skeleton in Terminal 1 and a massive American flag sculpture. Free self-guided tour maps available.
Plane Spotting from the Hilton Lounge
The Gaslight Club at the Hilton O Hare (connected to Terminal 2) offers panoramic views of the runways. Enjoy a drink while watching aircraft operations at one of the busiest airports in the world. Accessible without leaving the airport via the Terminal 2 skybridge.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Visit Millennium Park and The Bean
Take the Blue Line to Washington station (45 min) to visit Chicago iconic Millennium Park. See the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean), the Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden. The Art Institute of Chicago is right next door. Free park entry. Allow 4-5 hours total including travel.
Deep-Dish Pizza Crawl in the Loop
Take the Blue Line to downtown and taste Chicago famous deep-dish pizza. Lou Malnati, Giordano, and Pequod are all within reach of Blue Line stations. Allow 30-45 minutes for a fresh deep-dish pizza to be made. Combine with a walk down Michigan Avenue or through Millennium Park.
Architecture Boat Tour on Chicago River
Take the Blue Line downtown and join a 90-minute architecture boat tour along the Chicago River. See iconic skyscrapers and learn about Chicago architectural heritage. Multiple operators run tours from Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Book in advance during summer. Total time including transit: 5-6 hours.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (30 minutes free, then paid plans)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type A/B (US standard), USB charging stations at most gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $10-20 per bag per day at SafePlace luggage storage in Terminal 2
- Showers: Free in select airline lounges; paid showers at Minute Suites ($40/hour)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: US Dollar (USD / $)
- Exchange: Travelex currency exchange counters in Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5 (International). ICE Currency Exchange in Terminal 5 arrivals.
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (varies by terminal)
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in the US. Tip 15-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per bag for porters/skycaps, and 15-20% for taxi rides.
Airport exchange rates are typically poor. Use your bank ATM or debit card for better rates, or exchange currency before arriving. Many places accept contactless payment.
Smoking Areas
O Hare is a non-smoking airport. No indoor smoking areas. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located outside each terminal before the security checkpoint.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +1-773-686-2385
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
Most visitors need an ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) or visa. ESTA must be applied for at least 72 hours before travel. Citizens of 41 countries qualify for the VWP.
Insider Tips
O'Hare is notorious for delays due to weather and sheer volume - build extra time into your itinerary, especially during winter. Terminal 5 is separated from Terminals 1-3 and requires the ATS train (allow 20+ minutes). United dominates Terminal 1; American is primarily in Terminal 3. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are highly recommended as security lines can be very long. The Hilton O'Hare is convenient for early departures or long layovers. Chicago-style deep dish pizza is available at several airport locations. Consider alternative airports like Midway for Southwest flights. The Blue Line is the most economical way to downtown but takes longer than taxis during off-peak hours.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Four terminals with extensive dining and shopping options. Terminal 5 serves international arrivals with modern facilities. The Hilton Chicago O'Hare is connected to the airport via underground walkway. Numerous United Club and American Admirals Club lounges. Priority Pass-accessible lounges available. Yoga room in Terminal 3 for relaxation. Chicago attractions displays and public art throughout terminals. Free WiFi with premium speeds available for purchase. Charging stations throughout. Urban Garden program with traveling exhibitions. Kid-friendly play areas and nursing rooms. Multi-faith chapel in Terminal 2.
Official Website
Phone
+1-800-832-6352
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