Which Airport is Closer to McCormick Place: O'Hare or Midway? A Tale of Two Airports
So, you're headed to Chicago for a convention at McCormick Place, huh? Good for you! You're about to experience the Windy City's charm, its deep-dish pizza, and its... ahem unique traffic. But first, let's tackle a burning question: which airport is closer? O'Hare or Midway?
O'Hare: The Big Kahuna
O'Hare International Airport is like that really loud cousin who’s always showing off. It’s big, bustling, and always has something going on. It's also about 18 miles from McCormick Place. So, yeah, it's technically farther away than Midway. But don’t let that fool you. O'Hare is like that friend who’s always late but brings the best snacks. It has more flight options, especially international ones. Plus, the train to the city is pretty convenient.
Midway: The Underdog
Midway International Airport is the quieter, cooler sibling. It's smaller, less chaotic, and, crucially, about 11 miles from McCormick Place. So, if proximity is your top priority, Midway is your guy. But don’t be fooled by its size. Midway can pack a punch with its selection of airlines and destinations. Just don't expect to find a dozen food options like at O'Hare.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
- Proximity: Midway wins hands down.
- Flight options: O'Hare is the king.
- Budget: Both airports have a mix of budget and premium airlines.
- Vibe: If you like chaos, go for O'Hare. If you prefer a calmer experience, choose Midway.
Ultimately, the best airport for you depends on your priorities. If you're short on time and want to minimize travel stress, Midway is the way to go. But if you have more flexibility and want a wider range of flight options, O'Hare might be your better bet.
How to Get from the Airport to McCormick Place
No matter which airport you choose, getting to McCormick Place is relatively easy.
- How to get to McCormick Place from O'Hare: Take the Blue Line train downtown. It's a direct route and pretty convenient.
- How to get to McCormick Place from Midway: You can take the Orange Line train or a taxi. The train is cheaper, but the taxi is faster.
- How to get from McCormick Place back to the airport: Just reverse the directions!
Remember: Chicago traffic can be a beast. Factor in extra time for your journey, especially during rush hour.
So there you have it. The great airport debate is over (or at least paused for now). Now go book your flight and get ready to explore the Windy City!
