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A guide to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

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    Quick insights

    • Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is an international airport with four operating terminals.
    • There are many ways to travel to ORD, including several Chicago public transit options.
    • Priority Pass members may be able to access the Swissport Lounge in Terminal 5.

    Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a major international airport located approximately 17 miles northwest of the downtown “Loop” business district. ORD features a wide range of eateries, shops and airport lounges.

    There’s always plenty of art to see at ORD thanks to Chicago’s Public Art Program; locals and travelers may recognize the iconic “Sky’s the Limit” neon light installation above the walkway between Concourses B and C. There’s also the Tower Farm aeroponic garden between Terminal 2 and 3, where plants are grown and used in several airport restaurants.

    Read on to learn how to navigate to and from ORD, what parking options are available, how to travel between terminals and more.

    Navigating to and from Chicago ORD Airport

    There are several ways to travel to and from ORD, including a range of public transit routes:

    CTA

    The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides an affordable option with the Blue Line “L” train that runs 24/7. Follow the "Trains to City” wayfinding signs in Terminals 1,2 and 3 to reach the CTA on the basement level. Those in Terminal 5 will need to take the Airport Transit System (ATS) shuttle to another terminal first.

    Metra

    The Metra is a commuter train that services Chicago and its suburbs. Metra’s North Central Service line provides weekday service to downtown Chicago and north central suburbs.

    PACE Bus

    There are a couple of PACE buses routes that take travelers into the city. PACE buses are accessible via the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), which is a large airport transportation hub. To reach the MMF, take the ATS from any terminal.

    Other transportation options

    • Taxi: There are taxi, limo and rideshare options available to and from ORD. Taxi stands are at the lower-level curb outside of baggage claim for each terminal.
    • Rideshare: When you request a rideshare pickup from the airport, navigate to the loading zones in Terminal 2 on the upper level.
    • Car rental: There are 13 car rental companies operating within ORD. Take the ATS shuttle to the MMF to access the rental car center.
    • Bus/shuttle: Regional buses are available at the Bus Shuttle Center in the MMF. If your hotel offers shuttle service, pickup is typically at the arrivals area in Terminal 2. Confirm with your hotel before pickup.

    Parking options at Chicago ORD Airport

    ORD includes several parking options, including hourly, daily and long-term/economy. Additionally, there are cell phone lots that provide temporary free parking for pickups. Refer to ORD’s website for full parking details and availability.

    Time required to navigate Chicago ORD Airport

    Many airport officials recommend arriving at the airport two hours prior to your departure so you have ample time to get through security. If your flight is international, you may want to give yourself additional buffer time. Keep in mind that factors like holidays and peak travel times may impact security wait times. TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry memberships may help expedite the security process.

    Chicago ORD Airport map

    Visit ORD’s website to view an interactive map of each terminal. Maps highlight parking, public transit, security, gates and more.

    ORD terminal information

    There are four different terminals at ORD: 1, 2, 3 and 5. There are a few options if you need to navigate between terminals:

    • The ATS is a free shuttle bus service that runs between all terminals and remote parking lots.
    • For connecting flights, some airlines provide shuttle buses between terminals as well.
    • There are also moving walkways and pedestrian walkways to speed up walking between terminals.

    Visit ORD’s website for a list of which airlines operate in each terminal.

    Priority Pass lounges at Chicago ORD Airport

    There are many airport lounges throughout ORD, including one within the Priority Pass network: the Swissport Lounge in International Terminal 5.

    • Location: Terminal 5 next to gate M13.
    • Amenities: Complimentary snacks and refreshments, Wi-Fi, TVs, newspapers and magazines.

    Access to the lounge is permitted three hours before your scheduled flight departure, and a dress code may be applicable. Children under four receive complimentary access.

    Note that each visit to a participating lounge is equal to one lounge entitlement for Priority Pass members. Check your membership level to find out more about your allocated lounge visits and fees.

    If you have a Chase Sapphire Reserve® credit card or are interested in applying for one, you may be eligible for complimentary Priority Pass membership as a credit card benefit (note that the card has an annual fee).

    In summary

    Whether you’re traveling to Chicago or just spending a few hours in ORD for a layover, there’s plenty of ways to pass the time in the “Windy City.” Learn more about Priority Pass Chicago benefits before your next trip. This article contains the most up-to-date information at the time of publication. Details since publication are subject to change. Visit Priority Pass' official website for the most up-to-date benefits information.

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