Chicago O’Hare vs Midway: Which Airport to Choose & How a Limo Transfer Makes Travel Easier
Introduction
When planning a trip to Chicago, one of the first questions travelers face is:
“Should I fly into O’Hare or Midway?”
Both airports serve millions of passengers every year, but they differ in size, location, and convenience. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, choosing the right airport—and arranging seamless ground transportation—can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, we’ll compare Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to help you decide which airport is best for your needs. We’ll also show you why booking a limo transfer with Elite Rides Chicago makes your arrival and departure more comfortable and hassle-free.
1. Location: Which Airport Is Closer to Downtown Chicago?
- O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Located about
17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago.
- Midway International Airport (MDW): Situated just
11 miles southwest of downtown.
➡️ Verdict: If proximity to downtown matters most, Midway is closer. However, travel times can still vary depending on traffic, which is where a professional chauffeur service can make a big difference.
2. Size & Flight Options
- O’Hare: One of the busiest airports in the U.S., offering
over 200 destinations worldwide, including most international flights.
- Midway: Smaller and more traveler-friendly, serving mainly
domestic routes with airlines like Southwest.
➡️ Verdict: For international travel or more flight options, O’Hare is the winner. For domestic trips, Midway can be quicker and easier to navigate.
3. Traffic & Travel Time
Chicago’s traffic is unpredictable, especially during rush hours.
- O’Hare: Typically takes
35–60 minutes to reach downtown.
- Midway: Often
20–40 minutes, but traffic congestion can still add delays.
➡️ Tip: No matter which airport you choose, scheduling a limo transfer with Elite Rides Chicago ensures a dedicated chauffeur who plans the best route for you—saving time and reducing stress.
4. Airport Experience
- O’Hare: Offers a wider range of dining, shopping, lounges, and amenities but can feel busy and overwhelming.
- Midway: Smaller, easier to navigate, and often less crowded.
➡️ Verdict: If you prefer more comfort and services, go with O’Hare. If you value speed and simplicity, Midway is more convenient.
5. Cost Considerations
Airfares can vary based on your destination and airline. Generally:
- Midway sometimes offers
lower domestic fares thanks to budget-friendly carriers.
- O’Hare may have better deals for
international flights and premium airlines.
➡️ Check flight comparison sites before booking—but remember to factor in ground transportation costs too.
6. Why Book a Limo Transfer with Elite Rides Chicago
Regardless of the airport you choose, getting to and from it can be the most stressful part of your trip—especially in a busy city like Chicago. That’s where Elite Rides Chicago makes a difference:
- Professional Chauffeurs: Courteous, experienced drivers who know Chicago traffic patterns.
- Luxury Fleet: Choose from sleek sedans, spacious SUVs, or stretch limousines.
- Punctual Pickups: Avoid delays, parking hassles, or waiting for rideshares.
- Comfort & Privacy: Travel in a clean, climate-controlled vehicle designed for your comfort.
- 24/7 Availability: Perfect for early morning flights or late-night arrivals.
➡️ Whether you land at O’Hare or Midway, our airport limo transfer service ensures a smooth, stress-free start or end to your journey.
7. Tips for a Smooth Airport Transfer
- Book Early: Reserve your limo in advance to lock in your preferred vehicle.
- Provide Flight Details: Helps your chauffeur track delays or early arrivals.
- Plan Buffer Time: Chicago traffic can be unpredictable—plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Both O’Hare and Midway have unique advantages.
- Choose O’Hare for more flight options and international connections.
- Pick Midway for closer proximity to downtown and quicker domestic travel.
No matter which airport you choose, Elite Rides Chicago ensures that your journey is comfortable, stylish, and stress-free.
Which airport is closer to downtown Chicago, O’Hare or Midway?
Midway Airport is about 11 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, making it closer than O’Hare Airport, which is about 17 miles northwest of the city center. However, travel time depends on traffic conditions.
Which airport is better for international flights in Chicago?
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) offers more international routes and airlines, making it the preferred choice for global travelers. Midway (MDW) mainly serves domestic flights.
How long does it take to travel from downtown Chicago to each airport?
On average:
O’Hare: 35–60 minutes
Midway: 20–40 minutes
These times vary during rush hours.
Booking a limo transfer with Elite Rides Chicago helps you save time with professional route planning.
Are limo transfers available 24/7 for both O’Hare and Midway airports?
Yes! Elite Rides Chicago offers 24/7 limo services to and from both O’Hare and Midway airports, ensuring smooth transfers for early morning or late-night flights.
How much does a limo transfer from O’Hare or Midway to downtown Chicago cost?
Pricing depends on factors like distance, vehicle type, and time of day. Contact Elite Rides Chicago for an accurate quote and to choose from luxury sedans, SUVs, or stretch limousines.
Can I book a limo for a group arriving at the airport?
Absolutely. Elite Rides Chicago offers spacious SUVs and stretch limousines that can comfortably accommodate groups, families, or business teams.
Why should I book a limo instead of a rideshare from the airport?
A limo transfer offers guaranteed comfort, punctuality, privacy, and professional chauffeurs—perfect for avoiding the unpredictability of rideshares and ensuring a stress-free journey.
