The Ultimate Cheat Code for Chicago O'Hare Airport

Most passengers waste their time before reaching the security line at O’Hare International Airport. They get confused between the terminals and end up on a wrong terminal, look for a Terminal 4 that does not exist, or find out at the curb that they will have to take a train to reach the airline's terminal. One wrong turn at an airport of this size can cost you the ‘buffer' you created for your day. 

Being a frequent flyer from O’Hare, I have walked through connected domestic terminals and transferred through a free train to the International Terminal multiple times. I have also been to the lounge or dining areas, so the information shared in this blog comes from firsthand experience. I have verified all the details with the latest airport and industry sources available in October 2026.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport is located 17 miles (27 km) northwest of downtown Chicago. Span across 7,627 acres and has the most number of runways in the world, eight runways. It is a hub for both United Airlines and American Airlines. 

O'Hare is also an active construction site. The city's ORDNext program, which is estimated to cost about $12.5 billion, will create gates, satellite concourses, and a new Global Terminal, which is set to be built on the site of Terminal 2, eventually. Scaffolding and signage will be altered; expect it and check your gate before leaving the airport.

How to Get to O’Hare Airport? 

The Chicago O'Hare Airport location is 17 miles from the downtown of Chicago. You have multiple transport options to reach the airport, including train, public bus, rideshare, & taxis. Let’s discuss all your options one by one. 

CTA Blue Line (the budget choice)

The Blue Line runs 24 hours a day between O'Hare, the Loop, and Forest Park. The station is located beneath the parking garage for Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and there are pedestrian tunnels to the station from each of the terminals. Take trains into the city, according to the overhead signs. ATS is free from O'Hare International Airport Terminal 5 to the main terminal complex first.

• Airport to Loop: approximately 40-45 minutes. There is no express because all trains make all the stops.

• Frequency: approximately once every 7-10 minutes during the day, and every few minutes at peak times.

• Fare: An airport fare to and from O'Hare is $5 and is higher than a regular fare "L" ride. Check the price at the machines or at the CTA website.

Metra and Pace

O'Hare Transfer Station lies behind the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) and is served by Metra's North Central Service. It operates during the weekday and connects the airport to Union Station and the northwest suburbs. Also with Pace, the buses don't stop at the terminals but at the MMF, so the end of the trip is at the ATS (Airport Transit System). The ride costs range from $1.75 to $6.75, depending on the zone traveled. 

Taxi and rideshare

At each terminal on the lower level, the curb outside the baggage claim area has taxi stands. The taxi ride to downtown is usually in the $35 to $50 price range, subject to traffic. Pickup for the rideshare is by the signed zones at the airport, and the cost fluctuates according to demand; always check the ride-share app before finalizing the ride.

Driving and drop-off

The majority of drivers come to the airport from the I-190 spur. Drop-offs occur at the departure curb of each terminal, and the ATS also provides services to the Kiss 'n' Fly area. If picking someone up, a free cell phone waiting lot is positioned on Bessie Coleman Drive to wait until they are curbside.

Moving between terminals

• ATS train: free, no time restrictions, and runs between all four terminals, the economy lots, and the Multi-Modal Facility. The service is lighter at night.

• Walkways: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are connected by walkways, and underground pedestrian tunnels connect them before security.

• Terminal 5 transfer: For passengers already screened, there is also an airside transfer bus to connect to Terminal 5.

Pro-tip: Many people are surprised by the Blue Line fare of just $5 when you start at O'Hare. Have a card/cash ready at the turnstile and not walk to Terminal 5 with luggage on the ATS.

How Many Terminals Does Chicago O’Hare Airport Have?

Chicago O’Hare International Airport has a total of four terminals—1, 2, 3 & 5. Each terminal has its own characteristics. 

Terminal 1: United Airlines hub

United's home terminal is Terminal 1, which is one of the most prominent structures in the airport. It has two concourses (B and C) and serves United's domestic traffic and international flights as well as some Star Alliance flights. The United Polaris Lounge is located in Concourse C, near Gate C18.

The Chicago O'Hare Airport Terminal 1 is active early in the morning, as United flies more lines on the circuit than any other airline does anywhere at O'Hare. A new concourse (Concourse D) is anticipated to open in the next couple of years and satellite concourses are planned southwest of this terminal.

Terminal 2: the in-between terminal

Terminal 2 is the smallest terminal of all three domestic terminals and has two concourses, E & F. Concourse E hosts major carriers such as Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, Denver Air Connection (Key Lime Air), and United Express, whereas concourse F hosts carriers like United Express and Southern Airways. 

It sits between the terminals 1 & 3 and provides direct connection via walking corridors, allowing the passengers to transfer easily between terminals without existing security. The terminal is planned to replace by global terminal, which is supposed to be operational by 2034. 

Pro tip: Remember, the replica F4F-3 Wildcat can be found near Gate E1! It celebrates the nameakes of the airport, Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Commander Edward "Butch" O'Hare and serves as a photo stop. 

Terminal 3: American Airlines hub

Chicago O'Hare Airport Terminal 3 is the biggest terminal with approximately 80 gates at Concourses G, H, K and L, which are served by American and American Eagle, plus the oneworld alliance of British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Japan Airlines. There is a Hall of Flags at Concourses H and K, with one flag per country that has a nonstop flight from O'Hare.

A $300 million upgrade, known as ElevaT3, is currently underway and expected to be completed in summer 2027. The three-gate expansion of Concourse L has already been completed. Be prepared for some hoarding and detours between now and then.

Terminal 5: the international terminal

Chicago O'Hare Airport Terminal 5 is separated from Terminals 1, 2 & 3 and has a single concourse—Concourse M. It mainly serves the international flights and international arrivals (except Canada). It can be easily accessed via ATS; however, you will have to pass through the security if you are coming from another terminal. 

The terminal opened in 1993 and was expanded in 2023, adding ten gates. In 2022, Delta and the SkyTeam alliance moved here as well, and Southwest and Frontier also serve from Terminal 5.

Pro Tip: If you are coming in from overseas and need to connect to a domestic flight at one of the terminals 1-3, allow extra time. You check bags as necessary and pass security at Terminal 5 and then again after you pass customs. Always keep the Chicago O'Hare International Airport map open to navigate the terminals. 

An Interesting Fact: Terminal 4 was opened in 1984 and served nearly a decade until the construction of Terminal 5 was complete and it became operational. Terminal 4 was a temporary setup on the ground floor of O'Hare’s main central parking garage. 

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Airlines by Terminal at O'Hare

Here is a list of the airlines operating from the Chicago O’Hare International Airport from each terminal. 

Terminal 1

• All Nippon (ANA): Departures (Arrivals at Terminal 5)

• Lufthansa: Departures (Arrivals at Terminal 5)

• United Airlines: Departures (International Arrivals at Terminal 5)

Terminal 2

• Air Canada

• Alaska Airlines

• Denver Air Connection (Key Lime Air)

• JetBlue

• Southern Airways Express

Terminal 3

• Aer Lingus

• American Airlines: Departures (International Arrivals at Terminal 5)

• British Airways: Departures (Arrivals at Terminal 5)

• Contour Airlines

• Iberia Airlines: Departures (Arrivals at Terminal 5)

• Japan Airlines (JAL): Departures (Arrivals at Terminal 5)

Terminal 5 (International Terminal)

• AeroMexico

• Air France

• Air India (Temporarily suspended)

• Air Serbia

• All Nippon (ANA): Arrivals only

• American Airlines: International Arrivals only

• Arajet

• Austrian Airlines

• Avelo Airlines

• Avianca Airlines

• British Airways: Arrivals only

• Cathay Pacific Airways

• Copa Airlines

• Delta and Delta Shuttle

• EgyptAir

• Emirates

• Ethiopian Airlines

• Etihad Airways

• EVA Air

• Finnair

• Frontier Airlines

• Iberia Airlines: Arrivals only

• Icelandair

• ITA Airways

• Japan Airlines (JAL): Arrivals only

• KLM Royal Dutch

• Korean Air

• LOT Polish Airlines

• Lufthansa: Arrivals only

• Qatar Airways

• Royal Jordanian

• Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)

• Sun Country

• SWISS

• TAP Air Portugal

• Turkish Airlines

• United Airlines: International Arrivals only

• VivaAerobus

• Volaris Airlines

• WestJet Airlines

What Are the Lounges at O'Hare Airport? 

Do you want to rest before, after, or during a layover of a flight? O’Hare International Airport features premium lounges at every terminal. Almost every lounge belongs to an airline, and thus you need membership or an eligible ticket class to access the lounge. 

If you are not flying with one of these airlines, that does not mean you cannot access the lounge area at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. There are lounges such as United Club and Admirals Club, which offer day passes.  

Pro Tip 1: Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are AIRSIDE connected. A United traveler who has an Admirals Club day pass will have the option of walking across without rescreening. Day passes are available at various clubs and vary in price, please check at the club or the airline's website.

Pro Tip 2: If you're flying out of Terminal 5 with a Polaris or Flagship ticket. Those lounges can be found in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. To reach them, one must leave security and take to the ATS; make your decision before you pass through screening.

What Hotels Are Located at O’Hare Airport?

I have often seen travelers struggling with the hotels at the airport. Most make the common mistake of choosing a hotel that is far from the airport or getting a hotel nearby, which is expensive. I have brought the options of a few hotels that are closest to the airport and offer good value for money at an affordable rate.

Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport

Location: O'Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL 60666

Hilton is the only hotel inside the airport that sits across Terminal 2 and connects to other terminals via an unground walkway. You definitely want to get a good sleep before your flight, and the soundproof rooms are quiet enough to block the noise of the aircraft. If you have a layover, the hotel also provides an option to get a day-use room.  

The Hilton provides an extensive range of services, from room services and a fitness center, to sauna & steam room. Additionally, the dining options include the Andiamo, the Gaslight Club, a sports bar, and a grab-and-go market. 

The hotel is a perfect choice for both leisure and business travelers with catering, meeting rooms, shipping, and fax service. 

This is not it! It is also a pet-friendly hotel. So, if you are bringing your furry friend with you, the hotel has plenty of space to offer with world-class amenities. 

Hotels Near Chicago O'Hare Airport

Hilton is closest to your departure gate, but it may not be a wise decision to spend $250 for one night. There are several hotels near Chicago O'Hare Airport that provide free shuttles to their passengers. 

What Are the Chicago O'Hare International Airport Parking Options? 

If you are driving your own vehicle to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, you might be willing to know about the Chicago O'Hare International Airport parking options. It has several parking spaces, and which one is for you depends on how long you want to park your vehicle. 

Main Garage Hourly Parking

• The garage costs $3/hour, and it costs $79 for parking between 8 and 24 hours.

• The main garage has a clearance of 6 feet 6 inches, whereas T-5 Garage supports the parking clearance of vehicles up to 8 feet 6 inches.  

• You can park here for a maximum of 24 hours. 

• The garage is located directly adjacent to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. 

• It is best for short-term parking of less than three hours. 

Daily Parking

• The parking rate starts from just $3, and the maximum rate is $43 a day. 

• Daily parking is available on level 2 of the main garage, as well as lots B and C adjacent to it.

• An EV charging facility is available on Level 1 (Hourly Parking) in Aisle 2, near Elevator Center 3.

Tip: If you are parking for an extended trip, I recommend you skip the daily parking and main garage due to high daily rates. 

Economy Lot F

• The parking fee is $3 for the first hour and $6 for the second hour and then increases by $4 for each additional hour up to the fourth hour.

• The parking costs $30 for 4 to 24 hours. 

• You can find the parking lot on floors 4 & 5 of the Multi-Modal Facility​. 

• The electric charging stations are available on Level 4 in Rows G, H, I, and J.​​

Economy Lot G & H

• The parking costs only $3 for the first hour. 

• The maximum per day rate is $16 (the same charges apply from 2 to 24 hours). 

• You need to take a shuttle bus from Economy Parking Lots G & H to the Multi-Modal Facility, then take the ATS ride to reach any of the terminals. 

Good to know: Economy Lot F is located on the ATS line, making it faster than Lot G & H. Additionally, it is a covered parking space with a vehicle clearance limit of 8 feet and 4 inches, ideal for a tall van or car with a roof box.  

Premier Parking

• This is the most convenient parking at ORD Airport, where all spaces are covered and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. 

• Premier parking provides direct access to Terminal 1, O'Hare Airport, American Airlines departure gates, and Terminal 3, United Airlines departure gates. 

• The parking costs $63 for a day. 

Reserved Parking

• You can reserve your Chicago O'Hare International Airport parking space in advance for just $10/day (taxes & fees are not included) and guarantee a parking space.

• The parking is available on Level 2 of Terminal 5 and Level 4, or the main garage & economy lot F. 

• You can make the reservation at the official website of ORD Airport. 

What Are the Amenities at Chicago O’Hare Airport? 

Chicago O’Hare International Airport has plenty of necessary services and amenities at the airport to upscale your time at the airport. Here are a few listed below: 

• Wi-Fi: Open your device and connect to Free_Ord_Wi-Fi or Bongo Hotspot to enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi across the terminals. 

• Family lounge: The lounge is available in the main hall near gate 1 inside Terminal 2, and it offers designated space for kids to play. Additionally, it has seating spaces with charging ports and features several live entertainment throughout the year.

• Airport art: ORD features artwork from across the world. It has 70 permanent art pieces, paintings & sculptures, along with rotating art exhibitions. 

• Mother's Room: Each terminal at ORD Airport has mother's rooms, featuring electrical outlets, a diaper-changing surface, comfortable seating, and a sink. It remains open for 24 hours. 

• Food zones: The Chicago O'Hare Airport food and dining options are available throughout terminals 1, 2, 3 & 5. Most options of dining are available on the upper departure/ticket level after the security. 

• Smoking Areas: Smoking is restricted inside the airport, but you can easily find the designated spaces for smoking outside the airport. 

• Banking: Seaway Bank provides every banking service, including a currency exchange facility at ORD. Seaway has a presence in almost every terminal. 

• ATMs: If you need cash, the ATM service is available both pre- and post-security throughout the terminals.  

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Insider Tips for O'Hare Airport

• Pick your checkpoint. As all Terminals 1-3 are linked to the airside, you do not have to be confined to your own terminal's line. The far left and far right checkpoints in Terminal 1 and 3 are popular among frequent flyers. Before committing, note the posted wait times.

• Utilize the mezzanine in Terminal 3's Rotunda. It has the yoga room, plus cozy chairs for sitting and relaxing in, an aeroponic garden and tansom rooms that are less frequented than those near the gates.

• There is a quiet place to sleep. Rotunda, between Concourses F and G, is another popular spot for travelers with its couches and benches on the top floor. When booking an overnight layover, it's the safer option.

• In Terminal 5, find the interfaith room. It is located close to Gate M25 and provides a quiet place to pray or rest from the hustle and bustle.

• Do not plan on storing bags. There is no luggage storage within the O'Hare terminals, so reduce your luggage or plan to store it in the city.

• Be familiar with the ATS at night. It operates through the night, but trains are less frequent, allow for additional minutes for early flights.

• Families have options. There is a family waiting area after security at Terminal 2 and a Rotunda pet relief area at Terminal 3.

• Take two runs at the terminal. Airlines move terminals during construction, so please check the day before and first thing in the morning.

Conclusion 

If you prepare a little, you will get rewarded at O'Hare. Remember the name of the terminal (Terminal 5 is different from Terminals 1, 2 and 3), and leave a little extra time for connections that span between the three terminals. In addition, the airport has some very convenient amenities such as a well-maintained 24-hour train line into the city, an on-site hotel, lounge areas in each of three terminals, and good food options.

The airport is still a work in progress, and the operations and layout shown in this guide may change over the years as construction continues. Check the gate before you go, have a comfy cushion, and O'Hare is much more pleasant to visit for a couple of hours.