- Terminals
- 4 terminals (1, 2, 3 domestic; 5 international)
- Distance to city
- About 17 miles (27 km) northwest of downtown Chicago
- Getting downtown
- CTA Blue Line train (~45 min), taxi, rideshare
- Min. connection time
- ~60 min domestic; 2–3 hrs international (Terminal 5 changes)
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi throughout
Chicago O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States and a major hub for both United and American Airlines, as well as a key international gateway to the Midwest. Its four terminals handle a huge volume of connecting traffic, and the CTA Blue Line offers a cheap, direct ride into the heart of Chicago.
This guide covers the terminal layout, the airport transit system, and getting downtown.
Terminals & Layout
O'Hare has four terminals: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 handle domestic flights (Terminal 1 is United's hub; Terminal 3 is American's), and Terminal 5 is the main international terminal. Terminals 1–3 are connected airside, but Terminal 5 has historically been separate, reached by the airport transit system.
The Airport Transit System (ATS) — an automated people mover — links the terminals and the remote parking and rental-car centre. International arrivals at Terminal 5 connecting to a domestic flight typically clear customs, then transfer to Terminals 1–3.
Getting To & From Downtown
| Option | Time to downtown Chicago | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CTA Blue Line | ~45 min | Cheap, direct, and runs 24/7 to downtown (the Loop). Station beneath Terminals 1–3. |
| Taxi | 30–60 min | Flat-rate to downtown zones; traffic-dependent. |
| Rideshare | 30–60 min | Pickup at the designated areas; surge at peaks. |
| Metra (from O'Hare Transfer) | Varies | Commuter rail option for some suburbs. |
Layovers & Connections
Domestic connections within Terminals 1–3 can work from about 60 minutes since they're connected airside. International connections via Terminal 5 need 2–3 hours, as you clear customs and transfer terminals using the ATS. Winter weather can cause delays at O'Hare, so build in buffer during snow season.
For a long layover, the CTA Blue Line runs 24/7 and reaches downtown Chicago in about 45 minutes, making a city trip feasible on 5+ hours — Chicago's downtown is compact and walkable once you arrive.
Planning a flight through ORD?
Estimate your flight time and compare fares before you book — then find a hotel right by the airport for early departures and long layovers.
Food, Lounges & Sleep
- All terminals have solid dining, including Chicago staples; Terminal 5 and Terminal 1 are well served.
- United and American lounges plus Priority Pass options across the terminals.
- An on-site hotel and many nearby airport hotels (with shuttles) suit early flights and layovers.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CTA Blue Line is the best option — cheap, direct, runs 24/7, and reaches downtown (the Loop) in about 45 minutes from the station beneath Terminals 1–3. Taxis and rideshares take 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.