Chicago: Where to Land Your Plane (or Not)
So, you're planning a trip to the Windy City, huh? Good choice! Home to deep-dish pizza, towering skyscrapers, and a whole lot of attitude, Chicago is a must-visit. But before you start dreaming of deep-dish and skyscrapers, let's talk about the nitty-gritty: airports.
Midway: The Little Airport That Could
Let's start with the underdog: Midway International Airport. Now, don't let the name fool you. This isn't some tiny airstrip in the middle of nowhere. It's actually the closest airport to downtown Chicago. So, if you're looking to minimize your travel time and maximize your pizza consumption, Midway is your guy. Just don't expect it to be as glamorous as O'Hare. We're talking more "cozy" than "spacious."
O'Hare: The Big Kahuna
Then there's O'Hare International Airport. This behemoth is the biggest airport in Chicago and one of the busiest in the world. It's like the Grand Central Station of airports, bustling with people and planes. If you enjoy the thrill of navigating a maze-like terminal and people-watching, O'Hare is your jam. Just be prepared to spend some extra time getting to and from downtown.
Gary/Chicago International: The Reluctant Neighbor
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: Gary/Chicago International Airport. Located in Indiana, it's technically closer to Chicago than O'Hare, but let's be real, nobody wants to fly into Gary. It's like choosing the less popular sibling. Unless you have a specific reason to go there, stick to Midway or O'Hare.
Which Airport is Right for You?
So, which airport should you choose? Well, it depends on your priorities. If time is of the essence, Midway is your best bet. If you prefer a bigger airport with more options, O'Hare is the way to go. And if you're feeling adventurous, go for Gary/Chicago... but at your own risk.
Remember: Airports are just the beginning of your Chicago adventure. Once you've landed, the real fun starts!
How to... Airport Edition
- How to choose the right airport: Consider your priorities. If time is crucial, Midway is your friend. If you prefer a bigger airport, O'Hare is the way to go.
- How to survive a long layover at O'Hare: Embrace the chaos, find a quiet corner, and download some binge-worthy shows.
- How to find cheap flights to Chicago: Be flexible with your dates, consider alternative airports, and use a flight comparison website.
- How to navigate O'Hare: Download the airport app, study the terminal layout, and allow extra time for your journey.
- How to enjoy your time in Chicago: Eat deep-dish pizza, visit Millennium Park, and explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods.