Windy City Woes: How Many Airports Does Chicago REALLY Have?
Ah, Chicago. City of broad shoulders, deep-dish pizza, and... a surprisingly confusing airport situation. You might think, "How hard can it be? Just Google it!" But my friend, buckle up for a wild ride through the world of Chicago's aerial arrivals.
The Usual Suspects: O'Hare and Midway
Let's start with the big boys. Chicago O'Hare International Airport, or ORD for those in the know, is a titan. It's massive, it's busy, and it's probably where you'll end up if you're flying into the city from, well, anywhere that isn't next door. Think of it as the Michael Jordan of Chicago airports: a legend. Then there's Midway International Airport, or MDW. Think of Midway as Scottie Pippen: a reliable teammate, but maybe a little less flashy. It's smaller, easier to navigate, and often has better deals on flights.
But Wait, There's More!
Now, here's where things get interesting. Chicago, in its infinite wisdom, decided two airports just weren't enough. Enter Gary/Chicago International Airport, or GARY (because subtlety is not Chicago's strong suit). GARY is like the Dennis Rodman of Chicago airports: a wildcard, a little out there, and located a whole 25 miles away from downtown. It mostly handles cargo and private jets, but technically, you could fly in there. Just be prepared for a longer commute to your deep-dish dinner.
So, How Many Airports Does Chicago REALLY Have?
The answer, my friend, depends on how you define "airport." Do you want a bustling international hub with all the trimmings (and maybe a few delays)? Then O'Hare's your guy. Looking for a more manageable option with potentially cheaper flights? Midway might be your best bet. Do you have a thing for ex-basketball players and don't mind a little extra drive? Well, then GARY is waiting for you with open arms (and possibly a hangar).
Ultimately, the number of Chicago airports is a delightful Schrodinger's Cat situation: both two and three at the same time, depending on your needs and sense of adventure. Just remember, when it comes to Chicago's airports, a little research can save you a lot of post-flight taxi fare (or a very long walk from GARY).
