how far from midway to o'hare

Everly

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15-01-2025

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How Far is Midway Airport from O'Hare? Your Complete Guide to Travel Times & Options

Planning a trip between Midway International Airport (MDW) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago? Knowing the distance and travel options is key to a smooth journey. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting from Midway to O'Hare, and vice versa.

The Distance: A Straightforward Answer

The straight-line distance between Midway and O'Hare is approximately 18 miles (29 kilometers). However, actual travel time depends heavily on traffic and your chosen mode of transportation.

How to Get From Midway to O'Hare: Your Options

Several options exist for traveling between Chicago's two major airports:

1. Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft):

• Pros: Convenient, door-to-door service, readily available.
• Cons: Can be expensive, especially during peak hours or with heavy traffic. Travel time is highly variable and can range from 30 minutes to over an hour.

2. Public Transportation (CTA):

• Pros: Affordable, a reliable option, especially during off-peak hours.
• Cons: Requires multiple transfers, can be time-consuming (expect at least an hour, often longer). May not be the most convenient option with luggage. You'll need to navigate different train lines. This involves taking the Orange Line from Midway to the Washington/Wells station, transferring to the Blue Line and then heading north toward O'Hare.

3. Private Car Service:

• Pros: Comfortable, direct service, often includes luggage assistance.
• Cons: More expensive than a taxi or rideshare. Requires pre-booking.

4. Rental Car:

• Pros: Offers flexibility for further travel after arriving at O'Hare.
• Cons: Involves picking up and returning a car at two different locations, potentially adding significant cost and time. Parking fees at both airports must also be considered.

Travel Time Estimates:

• Taxi/Ride-Share: 30-75 minutes (highly variable due to traffic)
• Public Transportation (CTA): 60-90 minutes (or more, depending on transfers and wait times)
• Private Car Service: 30-60 minutes (depending on traffic)

Tips for Choosing Your Transportation:

• Consider your budget: Public transportation is the most affordable option, while private car services are the most expensive.
• Check traffic conditions: Real-time traffic apps can help you estimate travel times and choose the best route.
• Factor in luggage: Public transportation can be challenging with large or multiple pieces of luggage.
• Book in advance: Private car services and ride-shares often require pre-booking, especially during peak times.

Which option is best?

The ideal method depends on your priorities. If cost is a major concern, the CTA is your best bet. If convenience and speed are paramount, a taxi or ride-share might be preferable, though prepared for the potential cost and variable travel time. A private car service offers a balance between cost and convenience.

In Conclusion:

The distance from Midway to O'Hare is manageable, but the travel time can vary considerably. By weighing your options and considering factors like budget, time constraints, and luggage, you can choose the most efficient and comfortable way to get between these two vital Chicago airports. Remember to factor in extra time for unexpected delays, especially during rush hour.