Chicago's Airport Conundrum: A Tale of Two Hubs
So, you're planning a trip to the Windy City, huh? Good choice! But let's clear something up right away: Chicago has not one, but two major airports. Two. And yes, this is a problem.
O'Hare: The Big Kahuna
O'Hare, or ORD as the cool kids call it, is the behemoth of Chicago airports. It's like the Empire State Building of aviation, except with more delays and overpriced food. O'Hare is where dreams of on-time flights go to die. But hey, it's got plenty of shops to distract you from the inevitable boredom. Just don't expect to find a decent meal without mortgaging your house.
Midway: The Underdog
Midway, or MDW, is O'Hare's smaller, more humble sibling. It's like the little engine that could, except it actually manages to get you to your destination on time. Okay, maybe not always, but it's definitely less chaotic than O'Hare. Plus, it's closer to downtown, which means you can spend less time in a cab and more time eating deep-dish pizza.
How Far Apart Are They, Anyway?
You're probably wondering why I'm torturing you with this airport drama. Well, the distance between O'Hare and Midway is about 29 miles. It's like driving from one end of Manhattan to the other, but with less traffic (usually). So, if you're planning on switching airports, be prepared for a bit of a journey.
Important note: Don't even think about trying to walk between the two. You'll be greeted by a chorus of honking cars and the distinct smell of jet fuel. It's not pretty.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
This is the million-dollar question. If you're a risk-taker who enjoys a good challenge, O'Hare is your jam. If you prefer a smoother experience and value your time, Midway is the way to go. Ultimately, it depends on your flight options and where you're staying in Chicago.
How to...
- How to choose between O'Hare and Midway: Consider factors like flight availability, cost, location of your accommodation, and your tolerance for chaos.
- How to get from O'Hare to Midway (or vice versa): You can take a taxi, rideshare, or public transportation. Check the estimated travel time before you go.
- How to survive a layover at O'Hare: Bring a good book, download your favorite podcasts, and prepare to be patient.
- How to avoid getting lost at O'Hare: Use the airport's app or website to navigate your way around.
- How to find cheap food at O'Hare: Your best bet is to pack your own snacks or explore the less crowded terminals.