Are you wondering how to get from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago? This comprehensive guide covers all transportation options from Midway Airport with up-to-date prices, travel times, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
| Transportation Option | Travel Time | Cost | Comfort Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CTA Orange Line | 20-25 minutes | $2.50 | Medium | Budget travelers, singles |
| Taxi | 20-30 minutes | $35-45 | High | Groups, travelers with luggage |
| Uber/Lyft | 20-30 minutes | $25-40 | High | Tech-savvy travelers, couples |
| Shuttle/Bus | 45-60 minutes | $15-27 | Medium-low | Groups, travelers heading to specific hotels |
| Rental Car | 20-40 minutes | $40+ per day | Very high | Travelers needing mobility |
When considering how to get from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago on a budget, the Chicago Transit Authority’s Orange Line is both the most economical and often the fastest option, especially during rush hour.
Follow the “CTA Trains” or “Trains to City” signs from the terminal. The station is connected to the airport via a covered walkway that takes about 10-12 minutes to walk.
The Orange Line travels from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago in about 20-25 minutes, stopping at stations like Roosevelt (near Museum Campus), Harold Washington Library, Adams/Wabash (near Millennium Park), and Clark/Lake (main transfer hub).
For convenient transportation, taxis provide hassle-free service straight to your destination.
Head to the lower level of the terminal and follow “Ground Transportation” or “Taxi” signs to the designated taxi area near baggage claim.
Taxis are ideal if you have heavy luggage, are traveling in a group (cost splits among passengers), or value convenience over price. They’re available 24/7 and offer air-conditioned comfort.
Rideshare services often provide slightly lower prices than taxis with the convenience of app-based booking.
After booking your ride, head to the lower level at exit 4 of the baggage claim area, cross the street to the center lane where you’ll find the rideshare pickup point.
Prices can increase significantly during peak hours, bad weather, or special events due to dynamic pricing.
Shuttle services offer a middle ground between public transit and private transportation.
GO Airport Express:
Airport Supersaver:
Expect 45-60 minutes to downtown, depending on traffic and the number of stops. While slower than taxis or trains, shuttles are often more economical for single travelers.
For those wanting complete freedom to explore Chicago and beyond, rental cars are available at the Midway Rental Car Facility.
Take the free shuttle bus from the lower level of the terminal (exit 2), which runs every 15 minutes. The journey takes 5-10 minutes.
Midway Airport is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from downtown Chicago. This relatively close proximity is why transportation options can be so quick:
This makes Midway significantly closer to downtown than O’Hare International Airport, which is about 27 kilometers (17 miles) from the city center.
One of the biggest challenges when traveling from Midway Airport to Chicago is managing luggage, especially if:
Radical Storage offers convenient luggage storage locations near Midway Airport and throughout downtown Chicago:
Each bag is covered by a $3000 guarantee for complete peace of mind.
Storing your luggage allows you to:
The Orange Line provides convenient access to many of Chicago’s top attractions:
Avoid:
Recommended times:
Yes, the CTA Orange Line runs directly from Midway to downtown Chicago. It operates from 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM on weekdays and 4:30 AM to 1:00 AM on weekends.
Cab fare is approximately $35-45 plus tip (15-20%). Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft typically range from $25-40 under normal conditions but can increase during peak hours.
The CTA Orange Line is the most economical option at $2.50 per ride. A 1-day unlimited pass costs $5.75 and allows unlimited rides on all CTA trains and buses.
Yes, GO Airport Express ($27 per person) and Airport Supersaver (from $19) offer shuttle services to downtown Chicago. Many downtown hotels also offer their own shuttle services.
Midway Airport is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from downtown Chicago, making it relatively close and convenient for travelers.
For transportation from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago, prioritize the CTA Orange Line for affordability or Uber for convenience. Use Radical Storage to ditch luggage hassles and maximize your Chicago adventure. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this guide ensures a stress-free start to your trip!
Tallinn, Estonia’s charming capital, has long intrigued travelers with its blend of medieval history and…
Is Chicago expensive? If you’re planning a visit or considering a move, you’re likely asking…
San Francisco is a city that captivates visitors and residents alike—but one question remains on…
Planning a trip to Spain's vibrant capital and wondering: is Madrid expensive? The short answer…
When planning a trip to the vibrant capital of Catalonia, many travelers first ask: is…
If you're planning a trip to the City of Light, your first question might be:…
