Chicago, a bustling metropolis, welcomes millions of travelers annually through its two major airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). While various transportation options exist, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) ‘L’ train system stands out as the most efficient, cost-effective, and stress-free way to travel between these airports and downtown Chicago. Forget about expensive parking, unpredictable taxi fares, or surge-pricing rideshares. Embrace the ‘L’ and experience seamless Ord Transportation and Midway transportation.
Why Choose the CTA ‘L’ for Airport Transfers?
Choosing the CTA ‘L’ for your airport transportation in Chicago offers numerous advantages, making it a superior choice compared to taxis, shuttle vans, or rideshare services. Let’s break down the key benefits:
Cost-Effective Travel
The CTA ‘L’ is significantly more affordable. A single ride on the train to or from O’Hare costs just $5 or less, while Midway is even cheaper at $2.50 or less. Compare this to the estimated costs for other modes:
| Mode | Cost: O’Hare to Downtown | Travel Time: O’Hare to Downtown | Cost: Midway to Downtown | Travel Time: Midway to Downtown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CTA Trains | $5 or less* | 45 minutes | $2.50 or less* | 25 minutes |
| Taxi | Around $40 | 25-90 minutes | Around $25 | 15-40 minutes |
| Shuttle Van Services | Over $25 | 25-90 minutes | Over $15 | 15-40 minutes |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | Around $35-50 (can surge to $140+) | 25-90 minutes | Around $25-40 (can surge to $100+) | 15-40 minutes |
*Consider purchasing an unlimited ride pass for even greater savings if you plan to use public transport extensively during your stay. For detailed fare information, visit CTA Fares. Learn more about payment options with CTA How-To Guides.
Note: Prices for taxis, rideshares, and shuttles are estimations and do not include gratuity. Travel times are estimates under normal conditions and while train service operates normally.
Time-Efficient and Predictable Journeys
While travel times for taxis, shuttles, and rideshares are heavily dependent on traffic conditions, the CTA ‘L’ offers a much more predictable journey time, especially during peak hours. Trains operate on dedicated tracks, bypassing road congestion and ensuring a relatively consistent travel duration. The Blue Line to O’Hare typically takes around 45 minutes to downtown, and the Orange Line from Midway takes approximately 25 minutes.
Convenience and Reliability
The CTA ‘L’ provides direct service to both airports, eliminating the need for multiple transfers or navigating unfamiliar streets. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and the service to O’Hare on the Blue Line operates 24/7, offering unparalleled reliability, even for late-night or early-morning flights.
O’Hare Airport (ORD) Transportation: The Blue Line
For ORD transportation, the CTA Blue Line is your direct link to downtown Chicago and beyond. The O’Hare station is conveniently located in the lower level concourse, easily accessible from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and via a free airport shuttle train from Terminal 5.
Accessing the Blue Line at O’Hare
Upon arrival at Terminals 1, 2, or 3, simply follow the signs for “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City.” These signs will guide you directly to the station within a short walk from baggage claim, typically under ten minutes.
For passengers arriving at International Terminal 5, follow signs for the Airport Transit System (ATS). Take the ATS to Terminal 2 and then follow the signs for “CTA Trains” to reach the Blue Line station.
Blue Line Route and Travel Time
All Blue Line trains departing from the O’Hare station travel through downtown Chicago on their route towards Forest Park (or UIC-Halsted during certain hours). The average travel time from O’Hare to downtown is approximately 40-45 minutes.
Transfers and Connections
The CTA system allows for seamless transfers. You can transfer to other CTA train lines or buses for free up to two times within a two-hour period using the same Ventra Card, Ventra Ticket, contactless bankcard, or mobile wallet. Consult the Blue Line Route Guide or CTA Maps for detailed connection information to reach your final destination in Chicago.
Navigating O’Hare Terminals to the Blue Line
From Terminals 1, 2, and 3
Follow airport signage directing you to “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City.” The Blue Line station is easily walkable from baggage claim areas in these terminals.
From Terminal 5
Take the Airport Transit System (ATS) train to Terminal 2. Exit the ATS at Terminal 2 and follow the signs for “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City” to reach the Blue Line.
For further terminal details, refer to the O’Hare Terminal Map provided by the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Entrance to the Blue Line station at O’Hare International Airport, providing direct train access to downtown Chicago.
Stay Informed: Blue Line Service Alerts
Before you travel, it’s always wise to check for any potential service disruptions. You can find current and upcoming alerts for the Blue Line and other CTA services at CTA Service Alerts.
Harlem (O’Hare branch) Station’s West Entrance Temporary Closure Special Note
The west entrance to the Harlem (O’Hare branch) Blue Line station on Higgins Avenue and the adjacent Park and Ride lot will be temporarily closed.
Boarding Change, Delays Between Irving Park and Logan Square Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Irving Park and Logan Square, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Belmont and California, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Belmont and California, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Belmont and California, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Belmont and California, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Blue Line trains will operate on the same track between Belmont and California, resulting in a boarding change and minor delays.
Stay updated with the RSS Feed for Blue Line Alerts.
Midway Airport (MDW) Transportation: The Orange Line
For Midway transportation, the CTA Orange Line provides direct and efficient service to downtown Chicago. The Midway station is conveniently located just east of the airport terminal, connected via an enclosed walkway.
Accessing the Orange Line at Midway
The Midway station is directly accessible from the airport terminal via an enclosed, accessible walkway. Simply follow signs for “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City.” An orange line painted on the ground will also guide you to the station.
Orange Line Route and Travel Time
All Orange Line trains from Midway travel directly to the downtown Loop. The typical travel time from Midway to downtown is a swift 20-25 minutes.
Service Hours and Overnight Options
The Orange Line operates throughout the day and evening. For overnight travel, the N62 Archer bus route provides alternate “owl” service. Refer to the Orange Line Schedule for detailed operating hours.
Transfers and Connections
Similar to the Blue Line, the Orange Line allows for free transfers to other CTA trains and buses within two hours of your initial fare payment. Utilize the Orange Line Route Guide or CTA Maps to plan your complete journey within Chicago.
Navigating Midway Terminal to the Orange Line
Follow airport signs for “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City.” The Orange Line station is connected to the terminal by an enclosed walkway, easily identifiable by the orange line on the ground.
For more details on the airport layout, see the Midway Terminal Map from the Chicago Department of Aviation.
An Orange Line train approaching the Clark/Lake station from Midway Airport, illustrating the direct connection to downtown Chicago.
Stay Informed: Orange Line Service Alerts
Currently, there are no active or scheduled service alerts for the Orange Line. However, it’s always recommended to check for updates before your travel.
Stay informed with the RSS Feed for Orange Line Alerts.
Conclusion: Choose the CTA ‘L’ for Smart Airport Transportation
For travelers seeking efficient, affordable, and reliable ord transportation and Midway transportation, the CTA ‘L’ train system is undeniably the best choice. Avoid the uncertainties and expenses of other options and embrace the convenience of Chicago’s public transit to smoothly navigate between the airports and the heart of the city. Enjoy your trip to Chicago!
