Chicago Quick Facts
Airports: ORD, MDW
Flight Time: 1-5 hours (US)
Time Zone: CST (UTC-6)
Best Prices: Jan-Feb, Sep-Nov
Weather: 20-85°F
Peak: Summer, Holidays
Best Airlines for Chicago Flights
| Airline | Airport | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | ORD (Major Hub) | $79-350 |
| American Airlines | ORD (Hub) | $79-320 |
| Southwest Airlines | MDW (Focus City) | $59-250 |
| Delta Air Lines | ORD | $89-340 |
| Spirit Airlines | ORD | $49-180 |
O'Hare vs Midway Airport
- ORD (O'Hare): 3rd busiest US airport, 17mi from Loop, United/American hubs, most flight options
- MDW (Midway): Closer to downtown (10mi), Southwest focus, often cheaper, smaller/faster
Pro Tip: Midway is often cheaper via Southwest and closer to downtown. O'Hare has more schedule options. Both have direct L train access for $5.
Getting to Downtown Chicago
- From O'Hare: Blue Line L train ($5, 45 min) or taxi/Uber ($40-60, varies with traffic)
- From Midway: Orange Line L train ($5, 25 min) or taxi/Uber ($25-40)
Best Time to Visit Chicago
- Cheapest: January-February (very cold, 20-35°F) and September-November
- Best Weather: May-June, September-October (60-75°F)
- Summer: Lollapalooza, festivals drive prices up in July-August
- Winter: Cold but great for museums, indoor attractions, and deep dish pizza
FAQs
Should I fly into O'Hare or Midway?
Midway is closer to downtown (10mi) and often cheaper via Southwest. O'Hare has more flights and is better for connections. Check both!
How cold does Chicago get in winter?
January averages 22°F with wind chill making it feel colder. Layer up! But flights and hotels are 30-50% cheaper than summer.
What's the best way from O'Hare to downtown?
Blue Line L train: $5, runs 24/7, about 45 minutes to the Loop. Taxi/Uber: $40-60 but can take longer in rush hour traffic.
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