Plan ahead
As travel surges over the coming days, it’s important to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stress, whether you’re flying into or out of Chicago.
Travelers should prepare for longer-than-usual security checkpoint wait times and potential delays. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours ahead for international departures.
Avoid Traffic Congestion
It goes without saying that additional traffic is to be expected over the holiday season, so travelers will want to factor longer airport commutes into their overall travel time.
To bypass expressway congestion altogether, consider taking the CTA, which offers direct access to both O’Hare and Midway airports via the Blue and Orange Lines, respectively.
Rideshares also provide a convenient option for getting to the airport. Click here for detailed information on rideshare drop-off and pick-up locations at Chicago’s airports.
Enjoy the Holiday Decorations
In the spirit of the season, both O’Hare and Midway will be decked out with holiday trees, wreaths, garlands, snowflakes, and ornaments.
Passengers at O’Hare can take at self-guided tour of the airport’s Christmas tree display. The annual tradition features 12 Christmas trees decorated by community organizations and airport partners.