Chicago doesn't actually have an airport named Ordway. It's highly likely you're referring to one of Chicago's major airports: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW). This guide will help you navigate both, providing helpful information and answering common questions to plan your trip smarter.
Finding Your Way Around O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
O'Hare is a massive airport, and understanding its layout is crucial for a smooth journey. The airport's official website offers detailed maps, but here's a breakdown to get you started:
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Terminals: ORD has four terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5), each with numerous gates. Knowing your terminal and gate number is essential. Check your airline's website or your boarding pass for this information. Terminals are connected by the Airport Transit System (ATS), an automated people mover.
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Airport Transit System (ATS): The ATS is a free and efficient way to travel between terminals. It runs 24/7 and significantly reduces walking time.
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Transportation Options: ORD offers various transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft), rental cars, and public transportation (Pace buses and CTA trains). Knowing your preferred method of transportation beforehand is vital for efficient travel.
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Amenities: O'Hare boasts numerous amenities, including restaurants, shops, lounges, and Wi-Fi. Check the airport's official website for a complete list and their locations within each terminal.
Navigating Midway International Airport (MDW)
Midway is smaller than O'Hare, but a well-organized map is still beneficial.
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Terminal Layout: Midway has a single terminal with various gates. While simpler than O'Hare, understanding the gate layout is still essential for smooth transitions.
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Transportation Options: Similar to O'Hare, Midway offers various transportation options such as taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, and public transportation (CTA trains and buses).
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Amenities: Midway offers a selection of restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Again, check the airport's website for details and locations.
What are the different terminals at Chicago O'Hare Airport?
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5. Each terminal houses different airlines and numerous gates. Using the Airport Transit System (ATS) allows easy movement between terminals.
How do I get from one terminal to another at O'Hare?
The most efficient way to travel between terminals at O'Hare is using the Airport Transit System (ATS), a free, automated people mover system that operates 24/7. Walking between terminals is possible but significantly less efficient, especially with luggage.
What transportation options are available at Chicago Midway Airport?
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) offers several transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft), rental cars, and public transportation via the CTA Orange Line train and various bus routes. Pre-booking a ride-sharing service or checking public transportation schedules is advisable, especially during peak hours.
How much time should I allow for getting to my gate at O'Hare?
The time you should allow depends on several factors, including your mode of transportation, the distance from your arrival point to your gate, and the time of day (rush hour may cause delays). As a general rule, allowing at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your flight's departure time for domestic flights and 2-3 hours for international flights is a safe bet at O'Hare.
Are there maps available online for both O'Hare and Midway Airports?
Yes, both O'Hare and Midway airports have detailed interactive maps available on their respective official websites. These maps usually show terminal layouts, gate locations, amenities, and transportation options. It's strongly recommended to consult these maps before your trip.
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only. Always check the official airport websites for the most up-to-date information on maps, transportation, and amenities. Flight times and gate assignments can change, so refer to your airline or your boarding pass for accurate details.
