Navigating transportation after arriving at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) can be straightforward and budget-friendly. While taxis, ride-shares, and shuttle vans are readily available, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) ‘L’ train system offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative to reach downtown Chicago and various parts of the city. This guide will detail everything you need to know about utilizing the CTA Orange Line for seamless Transportation From Midway Airport.
Weighing Your Transportation Options from Midway Airport
Choosing the right mode of transport depends on your priorities – cost, time, and convenience. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
| Mode | Cost: Midway to downtown | Travel time: Midway to downtown |
|---|---|---|
| CTA Orange Line | $2.50 or less* | 20-25 min |
| Taxi | around $25 | 15-40 min |
| Shuttle Van Services | over $15 | 15-40 min |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | around $25-40 (surges higher) | 15-40 min |
*Consider purchasing an unlimited ride pass for even greater savings if you plan to use public transit frequently during your stay. For detailed fare information, visit CTA Fares. For guidance on using farecards and riding the train, refer to the How-To Guides.
Note: Costs for taxi, rideshare, and shuttle services are estimations and may vary based on time of day, traffic, and demand. Gratuity is not included. Travel times are estimates under normal conditions.
CTA Orange Line Service from Midway Airport (MDW)
The CTA Orange Line is your direct link between Midway Airport and downtown Chicago, operating on elevated tracks for a unique city view. It provides a reliable and traffic-free journey to the heart of Chicago.
About the CTA Orange Line ‘L’
All Orange Line trains departing from the Midway station are heading towards the downtown Loop, making it incredibly simple to navigate. The typical travel time from Midway to downtown is a swift 20-25 minutes.
Trains run throughout the day, every day, with reduced service during overnight hours. For overnight travel, the N62 Archer bus route provides alternative “owl” service. Always check the Orange Line schedule for the most up-to-date timings, especially for early morning or late-night travel.
Your CTA fare allows you to transfer to other CTA trains or buses for free, up to two times within a two-hour window, when using a Ventra Card, Ventra Ticket, contactless bankcard, or mobile wallet. Explore the Orange Line Route Guide or CTA Maps to plan connections for your final destination.
Directions from Midway Terminals to Orange Line Trains
Accessing the Orange Line station from the Midway Airport terminal is incredibly convenient. The accessible Midway station is located just east of the airport terminal building. An enclosed walkway directly connects you from the terminal to the station, ensuring a comfortable walk regardless of the weather.
Simply follow the clearly marked signs within the airport that read “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City”. For added ease, an orange line is painted on the ground to guide you directly to the station entrance. The entire walk is short, well-signposted, and designed for easy navigation even with luggage.
For a visual layout of the airport, refer to the Midway Terminal Map provided by the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Service Alerts for the Orange Line
Stay informed about any potential service disruptions on the Orange Line. Currently, there are no active or scheduled alerts. However, it’s always advisable to check for real-time updates before you travel.
You can access the RSS Feed for Orange Line Alerts for the latest information on service changes, delays, or any planned maintenance that might affect your journey. Staying informed ensures a smooth and predictable commute.
Transportation from O’Hare Airport: The Blue Line Option
For travelers arriving at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), the CTA Blue Line provides equally efficient service to downtown and other Chicago neighborhoods. While this article primarily focuses on Midway, understanding your options at both airports is helpful for future travel or if your plans change.
About the CTA Blue Line
The Blue Line operates 24/7, ensuring transportation is available regardless of your arrival time at O’Hare. Importantly, all trains from the O’Hare station travel through downtown Chicago. The journey from O’Hare to downtown typically takes 40-45 minutes.
Similar to the Orange Line, free transfers to other CTA services are available. Consult the Blue Line Route Guide or Maps for connection details.
Directions from O’Hare Terminals to Blue Line Trains
The O’Hare Blue Line station is situated in the lower level concourse, directly connecting to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. From Terminal 5 (international arrivals), a free airport shuttle train (Airport Transit System – ATS) provides convenient access to Terminal 2, from where you can easily reach the Blue Line station.
Follow airport signage directing you to “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City” from all terminals. From Terminals 1, 2, and 3, the walk to the station is typically less than ten minutes.
For a detailed visual guide, refer to the O’Hare Terminal Map from the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Blue Line Service Alerts
Stay updated on any potential Blue Line service changes.
Current Blue Line Alerts 2 Blue Line
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 boarding changes and minor delays.
Harlem (O’Hare branch) Station’s West Entrance Temporary Closure Special Note
The west entrance to the Harlem (O’Hare branch) Blue Line station and the adjacent Park and Ride lot are temporarily closed.
Upcoming Blue Line Alerts 5 Blue Line
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Boarding Change, Delays Between Belmont and California Planned Work
Conclusion
For affordable, efficient, and reliable transportation from Midway Airport, the CTA Orange Line is an excellent choice. It provides a direct, quick connection to downtown Chicago, allowing you to avoid traffic congestion and expensive taxi or rideshare fares. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, utilizing the ‘L’ train system simplifies your airport commute and offers a true Chicago experience. Remember to check for service alerts before your journey and enjoy the ride!
