How Far is Too Far Between Two Airports in One City? The Case of Chicago
So, you’re planning a trip to the Windy City, huh? Good choice! Home to deep-dish pizza, iconic architecture, and a surprisingly large number of world-class museums, Chicago is a city that has something to offer everyone. Unless, of course, you’re trying to figure out which airport to fly into.
O'Hare vs. Midway: A Tale of Two Airports
Chicago boasts not one, but two major international airports. There's O'Hare, the behemoth of the Midwest, and Midway, the slightly smaller, but still impressively busy sibling. Now, you might be wondering, "Why on Earth would a city need two airports that are so close together?" Well, dear reader, let me enlighten you.
It's like having two refrigerators in your kitchen. One is huge, with endless shelves and a fancy water dispenser. The other is smaller, but it's closer to the snacks. O'Hare is the big fridge. It handles the majority of international flights and has a ridiculous number of terminals. Midway is the snack fridge. It's closer to downtown and often has cheaper flights.
The Great Chicago Airport Divide
So, how far apart are these two titans of air travel? Drumroll, please...
Approximately 29 miles.
That’s right, folks. A leisurely 30-minute drive without traffic. Which, let's be honest, is about as likely as finding a parking spot at O'Hare without paying an arm and a leg.
Why Bother With Two Airports?
You might be asking yourself, "Why not just expand O'Hare and be done with it?" Well, aside from the fact that expanding airports is about as easy as herding cats, there are a few reasons. First, Midway is located on the city’s southwest side, which is a convenient location for many travelers. Second, it helps to spread out air traffic, which can reduce delays. And finally, it gives airlines more options, which can lead to lower fares for passengers.
So, which airport should you choose? That depends on a number of factors, including the airline you're flying, your budget, and where you're staying in the city. But don't worry too much about it. Chicago is a relatively small city, and getting from one airport to the other is pretty easy.
How To...
- How to choose between O'Hare and Midway: Consider factors like airline preference, budget, and location of your accommodation.
- How to get from O'Hare to Midway: Use public transportation, taxis, rideshare services, or rent a car.
- How to save money on airport transportation: Explore public transportation options, look for shared rides, or book transportation in advance.
- How to avoid airport stress: Arrive early, check your flight status, and have all necessary documents ready.
- How to enjoy your Chicago trip: Explore the city, try deep-dish pizza, and visit iconic landmarks.
