Transportation at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) offers a range of transportation choices to suit different budgets and travel demands. There are several options for getting to downtown Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or even neighboring states, including taxis, airport shuttles, rental cars, public and private transport.

ORD can be accessed through major highways, the Blue Line train operated by the Chicago Transit Authority, and regional buses, making travel to and from the airport.

This guide describes all of the facilities at Chicago O’Hare Airport enabling you to choose the best mode of transportation based on your travel preferences, destination, and budget.

List of Transportation Options at Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD)

Located roughly 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, O’Hare Airport is a major hub for both domestic and international travel. Travelers on a limited budget can use public transportation or shared shuttles, while those looking for luxury can reserve limousines or private vehicles. Here is the summarized list of the available transit choices.

1. Car Rentals

Travelers arriving at Chicago O’Hare Airport can pick from a range of car rental providers available at the rental car facility, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and National. These companies are accessible through a complimentary shuttle that operates 24 hours a day and picks up passengers from all terminals.

Renting a car is ideal for Chicago and the surrounding areas; however, budget-conscious travelers should consider downtown parking, tolls, and fuel expenses. Often, booking in advance leads to better rates, and some companies afford the ability to add toll pass options for added ease. While using public transit is a cheaper option, having a rental car is more convenient for direct transportation outside the city.

2. Taxi

Taxis are an easy and convenient way to get to and from O’Hare International Airport. There are taxi stands outside the Baggage Claim at the lower-level curb. Licensed taxis serve both Chicago and the suburbs. Always use the designated taxi stands and avoid taking rides from drivers on the departure level or outside of these zones to protect your safety.

A working meter that determines rates based on time and distance should be fitted in every cab. The usual trip from O’Hare to downtown Chicago is about $50, though this varies based on traffic.

3. Ride-sharing

Through mobile smartphones, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft link clients and drivers for hire, providing planned transportation.

Locations for Pick-Up (ORD Terminal 2)
For convenience, ride-share loading zones are color-coded:

•  Outside, north of vestibule 2A, is BLACK Zone A.
•  Vestibule 2A outside of BLUE Zone B
•  Zone C: Orange, outside vestibule 2B
•  Vestibule 2E outside of GREEN Zone D

In every terminal, Black Car pickups take place on the lowest level. Until their driver gets to the appropriate location, passengers should wait in the colored zones. There is a waiting room inside the space between vestibules 2A and 2D.

4. Public Transportation

O’Hare International Airport is conveniently accessible with a number of public transit alternatives. The most cost-effective choice is the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). The Pace Bus and Metra services are also available for passengers.

• CTA Blue Line: In the city of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, the CTA provides bus and train service. Chicago trains are referred to as the “L,” and the Blue Line trains are the simplest and least expensive option to take public transportation to O’Hare. With more frequent service throughout weekday morning and evening rush hours, the Blue Line provides 24-hour service. It is conveniently located on the lower level of the parking garage.
• Metra: Metra provides commuter rail service across the Chicagoland region. When arriving from the terminals of O’Hare International Airport, passengers can take Metra’s North Central Service trains to the suburbs or downtown via the O’Hare Transfer Station. It is located at Zemke and Mannheim Roads on the northeastern side of O’Hare.
• Pace: PACE bus pickup and drop-off are located in bus bays #8 and #9 of the Multi-Modal Facility.  The Airport Transit System (ATS) is a means for PACE passengers to travel to the terminals from the Multi-Modal Facility.

5. Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels near O’Hare Airport (ORD) provide free shuttle services for visitors, which provide convenient transportation between the airport and the hotel at regular intervals (usually every 15 to 30 minutes).

Pickup locations are typically at designated shuttle areas outside each terminal; travelers should check with their hotel for specific schedules and pickup instructions. Whether you’re arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning, hotel shuttles at ORD guarantee a hassle-free connection to your lodging.

6. Private Car and Limousine Services

There are limousines available for travel to suburban locations as well as to Chicago. Use the transportation boards next to the authorized places to make a reservation with your preferred limousine provider.

Additionally, you can look at the list of pre-arranged limousine services that are displayed close to the airport information kiosks, which are situated on the lower floor of each terminal, opposite Door C.

After picking up your bags, give your limousine service a call if you have a pickup scheduled in advance. They will give you information like the car’s description, license plate number, and the agreed-upon pickup location. Your limousine may take five to twenty minutes to arrive, depending on airport traffic.

7. Shared Ride Shuttle

The airport offers a nonstop shuttle service that can get you to your destination quickly and efficiently if you’re in a hurry. The service includes large SUVs and private vehicles. Enjoy a straightforward journey without any stops. The airport shuttle service provides shared trips to a few sites for individuals who want to save money and have spare time.

For less money than individual transportation, companies like GO Airport Express offer shared shuttle services to the suburbs and downtown. For travelers on a tight budget, this is an ideal service, as it’s less expensive than private vehicles.

The Terminal 2 Arrivals curbside is now the location for all hotel and off-airport parking shuttle pickups at O’Hare, replacing the previous Bus Shuttle Center. For further information, get in touch with your shuttle provider directly. Some shuttles will still pick up passengers in Terminal 5.

8. Parking and Park-and-Ride Options

O’Hare’s visitors are well served with a variety of parking alternatives for various modes of transportation.  Hourly and daily parking is available near the terminal for short-term stays. Although economy parking is a less expensive choice with a shuttle to the terminal.

For those who wish to leave their vehicles for a long period, Park and Ride Lots are helpful since they offer long-term parking options at ORD. All parking areas are monitored, making them safe. However, for stays longer than a few days, economy or park-and-ride options are more suitable. A regular free shuttle service ensures seamless connections between lots and terminals.

9. Helicopter Transfers

Several organizations offer helicopter services, such as Blade or Chicago Helicopter Experience, from downtown Chicago to various places, including O’Hare Airport. Fly from ORD Airport with this incredible transportation option and get an unparalleled travel experience.

For airport transfers, event transportation, or scenic excursions, a helicopter charter is perfect since it saves time and provides a smooth travel experience. O’Hare Airport helicopter transfers are the quickest method to avoid traffic and offer a distinctive, luxurious experience.

10. Airport Transit System

Convenient, quick, and dependable, the Airport Transit System (ATS) is a people-moving system at O’Hare Airport. It provides completely automated service every three to five minutes during peak hours, every day of the week.

The system provides passenger transportation to and from ORD Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) for economy parking lot F, Kiss ‘n’ Fly, Pace buses, Metra, and rental cars.

Chicago O’Hare Airport has developed a wide range of transportation options catering to every traveler’s preferences, such as luxury, expediency, or cost. For relatively short-distance travel, taxis or rideshare services would be a great option, while the CTA Blue Line is budget-friendly. People willing to pay can use private cars or limousine services and helicopter rides are also an option.

Being prepared in advance according to your time and monetary budget will guarantee a smooth arrival or departure to and from O’Hare.

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