Airport Overview
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world. Located about 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, it serves as a global gateway and a central hub in the U.S. aviation system. ORD is named after Edward “Butch” O’Hare, a WWII hero and Medal of Honor recipient.
Since opening in 1955, the airport has grown to accommodate more than 83 million passengers annually, offering help to every continent except Antarctica. O’Hare is a hub for United Airlines and American Airlines, and it offers nonstop flights to over 200 destinations worldwide.
As a key player in both domestic and international travel, ORD has received numerous accolades for its efficiency, design, and customer help. Need help while traveling? Speak _ for immediate support.
Terminals and Layout
Chicago O’Hare has four passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5. The terminals are connected by an automated Airport Transit System (ATS), making transfers quick and convenient.
Terminal Breakdown:
- Terminal 1: Primarily used by United Airlines and its Star Alliance partners.
- Terminal 2: Serves Delta, Air Canada, and other domestic carriers.
- Terminal 3: Dedicated to American Airlines and its partners, including JetBlue and Alaska.
- Terminal 5: Chicago’s main international terminal, used by all foreign carriers and some domestic low-cost airlines.
Key Features:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals
- Moving walkways for faster transit
- Baggage claim areas in all terminals
- Food courts, retail outlets, and lounges
- Customs and immigration helps in Terminal 5
Need assistance finding your terminal or amenities? Speak _.
Airlines and Destinations
O’Hare connects travelers to hundreds of destinations both within the United States and across the globe.
Major Airlines at ORD:
- United Airlines (primary hub)
- American Airlines (primary hub)
- Delta Air Lines
- Alaska Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Spirit Airlines
- Lufthansa
- British Airways
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Air France
Top Domestic Routes:
- New York (JFK, LGA)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Dallas (DFW)
- Denver (DEN)
- Atlanta (ATL)
Popular International Destinations:
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- Frankfurt (FRA)
- Tokyo Narita (NRT)
- Paris (CDG)
- Toronto (YYZ)
- Mexico City (MEX)
- Dubai (DXB)
Need to check flights or book tickets? Dial _ for assistance.
Transportation Options
ORD provides a variety of ground transportation options for easy access to and from the airport.
By Road:
- Taxis: Flat rates to downtown Chicago; taxi stands located outside each terminal.
- Rideshare Services: Uber, Lyft, and Via pick up at designated spots.
- Car Rentals: Available at the Multi-Modal Facility, accessible by shuttle bus.
Public Transit:
- CTA Blue Line: Offers direct 24/7 rail help between ORD and downtown Chicago.
- Metra Rail: O’Hare Transfer station connects to the North Central Service Line.
- Pace Suburban Bus Service: Multiple suburban destinations accessible.
Parking:
- Hourly Parking: For short visits (up to $3/hour)
- Daily Parking: Ideal for trips ($30/day)
- Economy Lot G, H, and Lot F: Budget long-term parking options
- Valet and reserved premium options available
Need help with transport planning or reservations? Speak _.
Check-in and Security
ORD offers efficient check-in and security procedures to ensure a smooth experience.
Check-in Options:
- Traditional counters and self-help kiosks in each terminal
- Online and mobile check-in
- Curbside check-in available for select airlines
Security Screening:
- TSA checkpoints located in all terminals
- TSA PreCheck and CLEAR available
- International security checks and customs in Terminal 5
Tips:
- Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international.
- Keep boarding pass and ID easily accessible.
- Remove electronics and liquids for screening.
Questions about screening or baggage? Contact _.
Services and Amenities
O’Hare provides a wide range of helps to keep passengers comfortable and entertained.
Shopping & Dining:
- Duty-free shops in Terminal 5
- Brands: Hudson News, MAC Cosmetics, Brookstone, Coach
- Dining: Tortas Frontera (Rick Bayless), Garrett Popcorn, Starbucks, Wow Bao, Chili’s
Lounges:
- United Polaris Lounge (Terminal 1)
- American Admirals Club (Terminal 3)
- Delta Sky Club (Terminal 2)
- British Airways and Lufthansa lounges (Terminal 5)
- The Club ORD (available for Priority Pass holders)
Connectivity & Comfort:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- Charging stations and workspaces
- Yoga room (Terminal 3 Rotunda)
- Mother’s rooms and family restrooms
Other Services:
- Currency exchange counters
- ATMs
- Lost and found
- Airport art exhibits and live music programs
Need help accessing these helps? Speak _.
Nearby Hotels
ORD is surrounded by excellent accommodations, ideal for layovers, early flights, or business trips.
Recommended Hotels Near ORD:
- Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport – Directly connected to Terminal 2
- Hyatt Regency O’Hare
- Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel
- Marriott O’Hare
- Aloft Chicago O’Hare
All hotels offer:
- Airport shuttle help
- Business and fitness centers
- 24-hour concierge
Need help booking a hotel? Contact _.
Travel Tips and Guidelines
Before You Travel:
- Check gate and terminal info via airline app or monitors
- Use mobile boarding passes for faster access
- Be mindful of traffic delays during rush hours
Packing Tips:
- Carry a universal plug adaptor for international travel
- Limit liquids to 3.4 oz in carry-on bags
- Keep medications and documents in your personal item
Currency & Payments:
- Currency exchange in Terminal 5
- ATMs and credit card payment accepted everywhere
For expert travel tips and last-minute advice, call _.
Emergency and Contact Information
Your safety and support are a top priority at ORD.
Important Contacts:
- General Support Line: _
- Lost & Found: Terminal 1 Baggage Claim area
- Police & Security: Chicago Police Airport Unit
- Medical Services: First aid available in Terminals 2 & 5
- Information Desks: Located near ticketing areas in each terminal
FAQs About Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- What is the airport code for O’Hare?
ORD. - Which terminal does United Airlines use?
Terminal 1 (domestic), Terminal 5 (international). - How do I get from ORD to downtown Chicago?
Take the CTA Blue Line train or a taxi/rideshare. - Is there free Wi-Fi at O’Hare?
Yes, across all terminals. - How early should I arrive before my flight?
2 hours for domestic, 3 hours for international. - Can I sleep overnight at the airport?
Yes, especially in Terminal 5 and gate seating areas. - Are there showers at ORD?
Available in airline lounges such as United Polaris and American Flagship. - Can I store luggage at ORD?
Currently, baggage storage is not available. - Where are pet relief areas?
Inside security and near terminal exits. - Is ORD accessible for disabled passengers?
Yes, fully ADA-compliant with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. - What is the best way to transfer between terminals?
Use the free ATS (Airport Transit System) train. - Are there play areas for kids?
Limited, but family restrooms and mother’s rooms are available. - How do I check for lost items?
Speak lost and found or dial _. - Where can I exchange currency?
Terminals 1, 3, and 5. - Are duty-free shops available?
Yes, especially in Terminal 5 for international travelers. - Can I use a Priority Pass at ORD?
Yes, at The Club in Terminal 5. - Are there lounges for economy travelers?
Yes, access via day pass or Priority Pass. - What’s the fastest security line?
Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if eligible. - Where is baggage claim located?
On the lower level of each terminal. - What’s the best parking option for long stays?
Economy Lot G or H for budget-friendly extended parking.
Book Flights From/To Chicago O’Hare International Airport
Fly to and from Chicago O’Hare with hundreds of options daily. Whether traveling for business, family, or adventure, ORD offers:
- Nonstop connections to 200+ cities
- Competitive pricing and frequent deals
- Easy access via road or rail
Need flight deals, rebooking, or help choosing a route? Speak _ for expert support.
Related Airports and Destinations
If ORD isn’t ideal for your route, consider these nearby options:
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) – Smaller airport ideal for domestic flights
- Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) – Less crowded and still close to Chicago
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – Offers flexible connections and low-cost options
Need help comparing airports or flights? Contact _ for real-time travel planning assistance.
