About Chicago
Chicago sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is famous for its architecture, lakefront parks, museums, live music, and deep-dish pizza. It is also one of the country's busiest air travel hubs, with frequent flights from across the United States and from international destinations.
Two airports serve the city, so comparing fares to both O'Hare and Midway can help you find the best option for your trip.
- Main airportORD
- Other airportMDW
- Best time to visitMay–Jun, Sep–Oct
- Time zoneCentral (CT)
Chicago Airports
- ORDO'Hare International
- MDWMidway International
O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States and handles most international flights. Midway is closer to downtown and mainly serves domestic routes. Both airports are connected to downtown Chicago by CTA trains: the Blue Line from O'Hare and the Orange Line from Midway.
Best Time to Visit Chicago
Late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October) offer comfortable temperatures for walking the city and the lakefront. Summer is the season for festivals, beaches, and boat tours, but it is also the busiest time to visit.
Winters are cold and windy, though travelers who don't mind the weather can often find lower fares and hotel rates.
Top Things to Do in Chicago
- See Cloud Gate, better known as "The Bean," in Millennium Park.
- Take an architecture boat tour on the Chicago River.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Step out onto the Skydeck at Willis Tower.
- Stroll the Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier.
- Catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field.
- Try a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.
Airlines Flying to Chicago
Chicago is a hub for several major airlines. Read our guides to baggage rules and check-in for some of the most popular carriers:
Tips for Booking Flights to Chicago
- Compare O'Hare and Midway fares for your travel dates.
- Allow extra time in winter, when snow and wind can cause delays.
- Use CTA trains to avoid traffic between the airport and downtown.
- Book early for summer weekends and major events.
- Review baggage allowances, since fees differ by airline and fare type.
Note: Fares, schedules and availability are set by the airlines and can change at any time until your ticket is issued. Always check your fare conditions before you book.