Oh, planning your journey from O'Hare to Northwestern, are we? Excellent! Let's conquer this transportation challenge together, shall we? Getting from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Northwestern University's Evanston campus is a common trek, and thankfully, there are several reliable and convenient options. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, helping you choose the best route for your budget, luggage, and desired level of comfort.
Step 1: Assess Your Travel Vibe!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's figure out what kind of traveler you are today. Are you:
The Budget Traveler? Looking to save a few bucks and don't mind a bit of public transit adventure?
The Comfort Seeker? Willing to pay a bit more for directness and ease, especially after a long flight?
The Time-Conscious Commuter? Need to get there as quickly as possible, even if it means a slightly higher cost?
The Group Organizer? Traveling with family or friends and looking for a shared solution?
Keep your answer in mind as we explore the options below!
Step 2: Public Transportation: The Economical & Eco-Friendly Choice
This is often the most cost-effective way to get from O'Hare to Northwestern, and surprisingly efficient once you get the hang of it. Your main weapon here is Chicago's fantastic 'L' train system, operated by the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority).
Step 2.1: Getting from O'Hare to the CTA Blue Line
Locate the CTA Station at O'Hare: Once you've landed, collected your bags, and cleared customs (if applicable), follow the prominent signs for "Trains to City" or "CTA Blue Line." The Blue Line station is conveniently located right within the airport, accessible from Terminals 1, 2, and 3 via pedestrian tunnels and moving walkways. If you arrive at Terminal 5, you'll take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) train to Terminals 2 or 3 to access the Blue Line.
Purchase Your Fare:
Ventura Card/Mobile Pay: The most common and easiest way to pay is using a Ventra Card (a reloadable transit card) or by tapping your contactless credit/debit card or mobile payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay). You can purchase a Ventra Card from vending machines at the CTA station. A single ride is typically around $5.00 from O'Hare.
Avoid Cash on Trains: While some stations have cash fareboxes, it's generally easier and quicker to use Ventra or contactless payment.
Step 2.2: The Blue Line Journey to Downtown
Board the Blue Line (Forest Park-bound): Make sure you're boarding a train going towards Forest Park (this is the direction that goes into downtown Chicago).
Enjoy the Ride: The Blue Line ride from O'Hare to downtown takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the time of day and any potential delays. You'll pass through several neighborhoods, giving you a glimpse of Chicago.
Your Transfer Point: Clark/Lake or Washington
Clark/Lake: This is a major elevated transfer point that offers connections to multiple 'L' lines, including the Brown Line.
Washington (or nearby State/Lake): These stations are good options if you prefer walking a short distance underground to the Red Line.
Step 2.3: Transferring to the Purple Line (or Evanston-bound Red Line)
This is where you'll make your final transfer to get to Evanston.
Option A: The Brown Line to Purple Line (Recommended during weekdays)
At Clark/Lake, transfer from the Blue Line to the Brown Line (inner loop, southbound).
Take the Brown Line north to the Belmont station.
At Belmont, transfer to the Purple Line Express (during weekday rush hours) or the regular Purple Line (all other times). The Purple Line is your direct link to Evanston.
Option B: The Red Line to Purple Line (Simpler, but might involve a longer walk)
From the Blue Line, exit at Washington or State/Lake. Walk underground through the pedway system (follow signs for Red Line) to the Lake or Monroe Red Line station.
Board a Howard-bound Red Line train.
Take the Red Line to the Howard station.
At Howard, transfer to the Purple Line (which only runs between Howard and Linden during non-express hours).
Purple Line to Northwestern: The Purple Line has several stops in Evanston, conveniently located near the Northwestern University campus.
Foster: Good for the southern part of campus.
Noyes: Central campus access.
Davis: Downtown Evanston, close to many university buildings and amenities. This is a very popular stop.
Central: Northern campus.
Linden: The very end of the line, useful for far northern parts of Evanston.
Total Public Transit Time: Expect this journey to take 1.5 to 2 hours, plus waiting and transfer time.
Step 3: Rideshares & Taxis: The Convenient (But Pricier) Options
If you're looking for more directness and don't mind spending a bit more, rideshares (Uber, Lyft) and traditional taxis are excellent choices.
Step 3.1: Finding Your Ride at O'Hare
Rideshares (Uber/Lyft):
Designated Pickup Zones: O'Hare has specific zones for rideshare pickups. Follow the signs for "Ride Share" or "App-Based Ride Services." These are usually on the upper level (departures) of the terminals.
Terminal 5 Specifics: If arriving at Terminal 5, you'll need to take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) to a designated pickup zone near Terminals 2 or 3, or follow specific instructions within your app. Always double-check your app for the most current pickup location.
Order After Bag Claim: It's always best to order your ride after you have retrieved your luggage to avoid cancellation fees and ensure your driver isn't waiting too long.
Taxis:
Taxi Stands: Follow signs for "Taxi" at the airport. Taxi stands are located on the lower level (arrivals) of each terminal.
Official Taxis Only: Only use taxis from the official taxi stands to ensure you get a licensed and metered vehicle. Avoid anyone approaching you offering a ride inside the terminal.
Step 3.2: The Journey to Northwestern
Route: Your driver will typically take I-190 E to I-90 E (Kennedy Expressway) into the city, then connect to the Edens Expressway (I-94 W/US-41 N), which leads directly to Evanston.
Traffic Considerations: Chicago traffic can be notoriously unpredictable, especially during rush hours (weekday mornings 7-9 AM, afternoons 3-6 PM). A trip that takes 30 minutes in clear traffic could easily stretch to 1.5 hours during peak times.
Tolls: Be aware that there are tolls on some of the expressways. These are typically included in your rideshare fare or added to your taxi meter.
Total Rideshare/Taxi Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending heavily on traffic. Estimated Cost: Typically $45-$80, but surge pricing for rideshares can make it significantly higher during peak demand.
Step 4: Airport Shuttles: Shared & Convenient
Several private shuttle companies offer shared-ride services from O'Hare directly to Northwestern. This is a good middle-ground option, offering door-to-door service without the full cost of a private taxi.
Step 4.1: Booking Your Shuttle
Pre-Booking is Key: It's highly recommended to book your shuttle in advance online. Popular companies include Go Airport Express (formerly Continental Airport Express).
Provide Flight Details: You'll typically need to provide your flight number and arrival time so they can track your flight.
Pick-up Instructions: The shuttle company will provide specific instructions on where to meet your shuttle at O'Hare. This is usually at a designated ground transportation center or specific terminal door.
Step 4.2: The Shuttle Experience
Shared Ride: You'll be sharing the van with other passengers heading in the same general direction. This means the shuttle might make multiple stops to drop off other passengers before reaching Northwestern.
Luggage: Shuttles are generally accommodating for luggage, but confirm any size or number restrictions when booking.
Total Shuttle Time: 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of stops and traffic. Estimated Cost: Around $30-$40 per person.
Step 5: Rental Car: For Ultimate Freedom (with parking considerations)
If you plan on exploring beyond Northwestern or need a vehicle for your stay, renting a car might be a good option. However, be mindful of parking at Northwestern and in Evanston, which can be challenging and expensive.
Step 5.1: Renting at O'Hare
Rental Car Center: O'Hare's Rental Car Center (RCC) is located away from the terminals. You'll need to take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) train from any terminal to the RCC.
Book in Advance: Always book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and potentially better rates.
Step 5.2: Driving to Northwestern
Navigation: Use a GPS or mapping app (Google Maps, Waze) for the most accurate directions. The general route will be similar to the rideshare/taxi route: I-190 E to I-90 E, then I-94 W/US-41 N to Evanston.
Parking at Northwestern: This is a critical consideration. Northwestern has various parking lots and garages, but permits are often required, and daily rates can be high. Check the Northwestern University Parking Services website for detailed information on visitor parking, rates, and permit requirements. Street parking in Evanston can also be limited and subject to residential permit zones or metered parking.
Total Driving Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, highly dependent on traffic. Estimated Cost: Rental car fees (daily rate, insurance, gas) plus parking fees.
Step 6: Consider Your Final Destination within Northwestern
Northwestern University is a large campus. Knowing whether you're heading to a specific dorm, academic building, or a location in downtown Evanston will help you choose the most convenient 'L' stop or direct your driver.
Dorms: Many dorms are within walking distance of the Foster, Noyes, or Davis Purple Line stops.
Main Campus Buildings: The main academic quads are generally accessible from Noyes or Davis.
Downtown Evanston: The Davis 'L' stop puts you right in the heart of downtown Evanston, with shops, restaurants, and many university buildings.
Step 7: Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Download Essential Apps:
CTA Tracker Apps: Several third-party apps provide real-time CTA train tracking (e.g., Transit, Citymapper).
Rideshare Apps: Uber, Lyft.
Mapping Apps: Google Maps, Waze for driving directions and traffic updates.
Check for Service Alerts: Before you embark on your public transit journey, check the CTA website for any service alerts or planned maintenance that might affect the Blue or Purple lines.
Have an Offline Map: Download an offline map of the CTA system and Evanston in case you lose cellular service.
Pack Light (for public transit): While not essential, lighter luggage makes navigating the 'L' stairs and transfers much easier.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Like any major city, be aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially on crowded public transport.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask: Chicagoans are generally friendly! If you're lost or unsure, don't hesitate to ask a CTA employee or another passenger for directions.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to get a Ventra Card at O'Hare?
You can purchase a Ventra Card from vending machines located at the CTA Blue Line station inside O'Hare Airport. These machines accept cash and credit/debit cards.
How to know which Blue Line train to take from O'Hare?
Always board the CTA Blue Line train clearly marked as "Forest Park-bound" to travel into downtown Chicago from O'Hare.
How to transfer from the Blue Line to the Purple Line for Northwestern?
The most common transfer is at Clark/Lake: take the Blue Line to Clark/Lake, transfer to the Brown Line (southbound inner loop) to Belmont, then transfer to the Purple Line. Alternatively, from the Blue Line, go to Washington or State/Lake, walk to the Red Line (Howard-bound), and take it to Howard, then transfer to the Purple Line.
How to check CTA train schedules and delays?
You can check real-time CTA train schedules and any service alerts on the official CTA website (transitchicago.com) or by using various third-party CTA tracking apps.
How to find the rideshare pickup zone at O'Hare?
Follow signs for "Ride Share" or "App-Based Ride Services" at O'Hare. These zones are typically on the upper level (departures) of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. For Terminal 5, you may need to take the ATS to a designated pickup area near other terminals.
How to estimate the cost of an Uber or Lyft from O'Hare to Northwestern?
You can get a fare estimate directly within the Uber or Lyft app by inputting your pickup location (O'Hare) and destination (Northwestern University, Evanston) before requesting a ride. Be aware of potential surge pricing.
How to book an airport shuttle to Northwestern?
You can book an airport shuttle service like Go Airport Express online by visiting their website. It's recommended to book in advance and provide your flight details.
How to find parking at Northwestern University?
Information on visitor parking, daily rates, and permits at Northwestern University can be found on the official Northwestern University Parking Services website. Be aware that parking can be limited and expensive.
How to get from Northwestern's Evanston campus to downtown Chicago?
From Northwestern, simply take the CTA Purple Line (southbound towards Linden during non-express hours, or Purple Line Express during rush hours) to either Belmont (for Brown Line transfer) or Howard (for Red Line transfer), then connect to the appropriate line to reach downtown Chicago.
How to pay for CTA fares without a Ventra Card?
You can pay for CTA fares by tapping a contactless credit/debit card or a mobile payment method (Apple Pay, Google Pay) directly at the turnstile. Single ride fares from O'Hare are higher than standard fares.
