Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is a major airport serving the city of Chicago and surrounding areas. Navigating transportation to and from Midway Airport is a key part of any traveler’s journey. Luckily, there are several efficient and cost-effective options available, with public transportation standing out as a top choice. This guide will delve into the best ways for Transportation To Midway, helping you plan your trip with ease and convenience.
Weighing Your Transportation Options to Midway
Choosing the right transportation to Midway Airport depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Here’s a comparison of common options to help you decide:
| Mode | Cost to Downtown Chicago | Travel Time to Downtown | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CTA Orange Line Train | $2.50 or less* | 20-25 minutes | Most affordable, reliable, avoids traffic, direct route | Can be crowded during peak hours | Budget-conscious travelers, solo travelers, those prioritizing speed and reliability |
| Taxi | Around $25 – $35 | 15-40 minutes (depending on traffic) | Door-to-door service, convenient with luggage | Expensive, traffic dependent, surge pricing possible | Travelers with heavy luggage, those willing to pay for convenience |
| Shuttle Van Services | Over $15 – $25 | 15-40 minutes (depending on traffic and stops) | Shared cost, can be pre-booked | Can be slower due to multiple stops, less direct | Groups or families, those seeking a balance of cost and convenience |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | Around $25 – $40 (can surge higher) | 15-40 minutes (depending on traffic) | Convenient app-based booking, door-to-door service | Price fluctuations (surge pricing), traffic dependent | Tech-savvy travelers, those familiar with rideshare apps |
| Driving & Parking | Parking fees vary (daily/hourly) | Varies greatly depending on traffic and parking location | Flexibility, control over schedule | Expensive parking, traffic congestion, stress of driving in the city | Travelers from outside the city, those needing a car at their destination |
*Consider purchasing an unlimited ride pass for even greater savings! Visit Fares for detailed fare information and How-To Guides for payment instructions.
Note: Costs and travel times are estimates and can vary based on traffic, time of day, and service availability. Taxi, rideshare, and shuttle prices do not include gratuity.
The CTA Orange Line: Your Direct Train to Midway Airport
For efficient and budget-friendly transportation to Midway Airport, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line train is an excellent choice. Providing a direct rail link, the Orange Line connects Midway Airport to downtown Chicago and various points throughout the city.
The Midway station, served by the Orange Line, is conveniently located just east of the airport terminal. An enclosed walkway provides a seamless and accessible connection directly between the station and the airline terminal, making your journey hassle-free regardless of the weather.
About the CTA Orange Line ‘L’ Train
The Orange Line is an elevated train line, often referred to as the ‘L’, that operates between Midway Airport and the downtown Loop. Every train departing from the Midway station is headed towards downtown Chicago, ensuring a straightforward trip.
The typical travel time from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago on the Orange Line is just 20-25 minutes, making it a fast option, especially when considering potential traffic delays with other modes of transport.
Orange Line service is available throughout the day, every day of the week. While service does have reduced hours overnight, alternative “owl” service is provided by the N62 Archer bus route during these times. You can consult the Orange Line schedule for detailed operating hours.
For easy transfers to other parts of Chicago, your Ventra Card, Ventra Ticket, contactless bankcard, or mobile wallet allows for up to two free transfers to other CTA trains or buses within a two-hour period. For route planning and connection details, refer to the Orange Line Route Guide or CTA Maps.
Finding the Orange Line Station at Midway Airport
Navigating to the Orange Line station from the Midway Airport terminals is simple. Just follow the clearly marked signs within the airport that read “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City”. To further guide you, an orange line is painted on the ground within the airport, leading you directly to the station entrance. The station is located just east of the main terminal building and is accessible via a direct, enclosed walkway, ensuring a comfortable walk regardless of weather conditions.
For a visual aid, you can also consult the Midway Terminal Map provided by the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Checking for Service Alerts
Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check for any potential service disruptions or alerts on the Orange Line. You can find real-time updates on the CTA website to ensure your transportation to Midway is as smooth as possible.
RSS Feed: Orange Line Alerts (Check for current alerts here)
By choosing the CTA Orange Line, you’re opting for an efficient, affordable, and direct way to travel to and from Midway Airport. Enjoy your trip to Chicago!
