Which Airport is Closest to Downtown Chicago? (How to Get There Guide)
According to Google Maps, the closest airport to downtown Chicago is Midway International Airport being a 10.9 miles distance that will take anywhere from 16 to 35 minutes. Although there are several alternative ways to reach your downtown Chicago destination from this airport, the fastest way to get there is by driving, especially if you are landing at around noon.Read more
What is The Closest Airport to McCormick Place, Chicago
The short answer: the closest airport to McCormick Place in Chicago is Midway International Airport, approximately 11 miles away. The larger O'Hare International Airport is also nearby, about 18 miles away. The exact distance and travel time can vary depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
Address: 2301 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616
The bustling city of Chicago is not just known for its deep-dish pizza and the iconic Navy Pier. It also houses McCormick Place - the largest convention center in North America. If you're planning a trip to McCormick Place, you're probably wondering about the best ways to get there. So, let's dive right into it!
A Glimpse into McCormick Place
McCormick Place, located in downtown Chicago, is one of the largest and most important convention centers in North America. It spans nearly 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space and hosts numerous national and international conventions, trade shows, and public shows annually.
Getting to McCormick Place from Chicago’s two airports can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right transportation partner, your trip will be a breeze. With Bus Connection, you can simply use the online form on our website to give us the details of your arrival times and the type of vehicle you’d like to travel in - whether individually or in a group - to reach McCormick Place and we will ensure that you receive a smooth pick up and drop off at this esteemed Chicago location.
Airports Near McCormick Place, Chicago
When we talk about airports close to McCormick Place, the city of Chicago offers you two major options: O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport.
O'Hare International Airport
Located approximately 18 miles from McCormick Place, O'Hare has a strong claim to being the most convenient choice.
Midway International Airport
Slightly closer, Midway is around 11 miles from McCormick Place and is a great option for those prioritizing proximity.
Comparing O'Hare and Midway
Let's compare these two airports based on various factors to make the best choice for your trip.
Distance
While O'Hare is further away than Midway, the difference in distance is minimal and shouldn't greatly affect your trip duration.
Public Transportation
Both airports have excellent public transportation links to McCormick Place, including the "L" train system and various bus routes.
Public transportation from Midway to McCormick Place is relatively straightforward and cost-effective. Here's the general route using the "L" train:
- From the airport, take the Orange Line towards Loop.
- Transfer at Roosevelt to the Green Line.
- Exit at the Cermak-McCormick Place stop.
Although the “L” train (Orange and Green Lines) is typically the fastest form of public transportation from Midway, you can also take the following bus route:
- Take the 62 Archer bus from Midway to Archer & State.
- Then transfer to the 29 State bus and ride it to State & Cermak.
- From there, it's a short walk to McCormick Place.
Keep in mind that the bus service can be slower and less predictable than the train service due to traffic conditions.
O'Hare International Airport to McCormick Place
Reaching McCormick Place from O'Hare using public transportation is slightly more involved but still very manageable. Here's a general route using the "L" train:
- From the airport, take the Blue Line towards Forest Park.
- Transfer at Clark/Lake to the Green Line.
- Exit at the Cermak-McCormick Place stop.
Alternatively, you can also consider taking the Metra commuter rail service. The Metra North Central Service (NCS) goes from O'Hare Transfer to Union Station in downtown Chicago, from where you can take a taxi, rideshare, or a bus to McCormick Place.
To travel from O'Hare to McCormick Place solely by bus would require multiple transfers and is not as direct or fast as using the “L” train. However, if necessary, here's one way to do so:
- Take the 81W West Lawrence bus to the Jefferson Park Transit Center.
- Transfer to the 56 Milwaukee bus and ride it to the Washington & Desplaines stop.
- Then take the 126 Jackson bus to Jackson & State.
- Finally, switch to the 1 Bronzeville/Union Station bus, which has a stop near McCormick Place at Michigan & Cermak.
Given the complexity of this route, taking the “L” train (Blue and Green Lines) or a combination of a train and bus service might be more convenient.
It's always a good idea to check the latest schedules and advisories on the Chicago Transit Authority's website or use a GPS-based navigation service for real-time information and directions. And, of course, travel times will vary based on the time of day and current traffic conditions.
Travel Time
Travel time is dependent on traffic. However, both airports usually offer a commute of around 45 minutes to an hour.
The Convenience of O'Hare Airport
O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and offers numerous flights served by multiple airlines.
Airlines
Major airlines operate out of O'Hare, including United and American Airlines, giving you plenty of options.
Amenities
O'Hare boasts various amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and lounges, making your wait more comfortable.
Nearby Accommodation
Numerous hotels are within a short drive of the airport, including some that offer shuttle services to McCormick Place.
The Perks of Midway Airport
Midway may be smaller than O'Hare, but it still offers a range of services and convenient amenities.
Airlines
Southwest is the major airline operating out of Midway, but several others also serve this airport.
Amenities
Like O'Hare, Midway has several amenities, including eateries, shops, and relaxing spaces for travelers.
Nearby Accommodation
A variety of hotels are available near Midway, many offering shuttle services to McCormick Place.
Choosing Between O'Hare and Midway
So, how do you decide between O'Hare and Midway? It depends on factors like your flight options, preferred airlines, the amenities you value, and accommodation preferences.
Key takeaways
Whether you choose O'Hare or Midway, both airports offer excellent links to McCormick Place. Each has its unique strengths, allowing you to select the one that best suits your travel needs. And if public transportation is not something you are too comfortable navigating, you can always rely on us at Bus Connection to pick you up and drop you off at the right location, at the right time - smoothly and hassle-free. Simply submit your details through the online form on our website and we’ll get back to you immediately. Remember that you can choose your mode of transportation with us, including a six-seater SUV or minibusses and buses and coaches that can seat from 14 to 56 passengers. This is ideal for groups visiting McCormick Place and is one of the fastest and most convenient options at your fingertips.
FAQs
How far is O'Hare International Airport from McCormick Place?
O'Hare International Airport is approximately 18 miles away from McCormick Place.
How far is Midway International Airport from McCormick Place?
Midway International Airport is approximately 11 miles away from McCormick Place.
Which airlines operate out of O'Hare and Midway?
Major airlines at O'Hare include United and American Airlines. At Midway, the main airline is Southwest, among others.
What amenities can I expect at O'Hare and Midway?
Both airports offer various amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges.
Are there hotels near both airports?
Yes, numerous hotels are located near both O'Hare and Midway, with many offering shuttle services to McCormick Place.
Which Chicago Airport is Closest to the Magnificent Mile: How to Get There Guide
The short answer: the closest airport to the Magnificent Mile in Chicago is Midway International Airport, which is approximately 12 miles away. However, O'Hare International Airport, while slightly farther at around 18 miles away, may offer more flight options and might be more convenient, depending on your final destination. Both distances can vary, depending on the specific route taken and current traffic conditions.
Address: Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile, 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Whichever airport you are arriving from, let us help you get to the Magnificent Mile smoothly and hassle-free. Simply book your transportation type online and let us know where you’d like to be picked up from. We’ll handle the rest!
Introduction to the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is Chicago's premier commercial district, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. But, why visit the Magnificent Mile? It offers more than 460 retailers, including luxury boutiques, major department stores, and international brands, making it a must-visit for any Chicago itinerary.
Navigating Chicago's Airports
Chicago is served by two major airports: O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. O'Hare, one of the busiest airports in the world, is located 17 miles north-west of the Loop. Midway, although smaller, is closer to the city center, located just eight miles south-west of the Loop.
Which Airport is Closest to the Magnificent Mile?
When considering which airport is closest to the Magnificent Mile, Midway International Airport usually takes the lead. It's about 12 miles from the Magnificent Mile, typically a 20 to 30-minute drive without heavy traffic. In contrast, O'Hare is approximately 17 miles away, usually about a 30 to 40-minute drive. Both airports offer various transport options to reach the Magnificent Mile, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation.
How to Get to the Magnificent Mile From Midway International Airport
- By “L” Train (CTA): The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates the “L” train system. From Midway, you can take the Orange Line train towards Loop, and then transfer at Roosevelt to the Red Line. Get off at the Grand stop, which is a short walk from the Magnificent Mile. This trip takes about 50 minutes.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. This option can be more direct but also more expensive. The drive time will depend on traffic but typically takes about 25 to 40 minutes.
How to Get to the Magnificent Mile From O'Hare International Airport
- By “L'”Train (CTA): The Blue Line “L” train runs from O'Hare to downtown Chicago. You would take the Blue Line towards Forest Park and exit at the Jackson stop. From there, transfer to the Red Line towards Howard and get off at the Grand stop. The Magnificent Mile is just a short walk from there. The total trip will take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at O'Hare. The drive to the Magnificent Mile typically takes 35 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Exploring Chicago with Private Bus Rentals
Traveling from either airport to the Magnificent Mile, especially with a group, can be made significantly easier with a private bus rental service. Providing comfort, convenience, and the freedom to move at your own pace, you can have a much more enjoyable experience.
And booking a private bus rental is easy and straightforward - simply provide us with the details of your trip and the number of passengers.
Choose our private bus rental service for its reliability, and high-quality, as we ensure your journey from either airport to the Magnificent Mile is smooth and enjoyable.
Making the Most of Your Magnificent Mile Visit
For those planning to visit the Magnificent Mile, some tips include checking the hours of your desired stores or restaurants, wearing comfortable shoes, and planning for possible weather changes. What can you expect? An energetic atmosphere brimming with people, high-end shops, delicious food, and stunning architectural sights. Don't forget the necessary safety precautions during your trip, like keeping an eye on your belongings and staying alert in crowded areas.
Conclusion
Whether you're flying into O'Hare or Midway, the Magnificent Mile is easily accessible and full of experiences waiting to be had. With our private bus rental service, you can start your Chicago adventure as soon as you land!
FAQs
Which Chicago airport is closest to the Magnificent Mile?
Midway International Airport is the closest airport to the Magnificent Mile in terms of distance.
How can I book a private bus rental service from the airport to the Magnificent Mile?
You can book our service by providing the details of your trip and the number of passengers.
What can I do at the Magnificent Mile?
The Magnificent Mile offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's also home to several notable buildings and landmarks.
What are some safety precautions for visiting the Magnificent Mile?
Keep your belongings secure, stay alert in crowded areas, and follow local rules and regulations.
Can I use a private bus rental service for any group size?
Yes, our service caters to a variety of group sizes. Just provide us with the details and we'll arrange the rest.
5 things that can ruin your airport transfers in the summer
When you plan your summer holiday you have to consider many things. Hotels, plane tickets, planning your free time during the trip, and of course - airport transfers. Airport transportation is a small but vital part of your vacation but if it goes bad it can ruin your experience. In this article, we are going to talk about several things that can turn any airport charter service into an experience you want to forget. Look for them in the customer reviews before you choose your airport transportation. Read more
Airport Transfers - What you Should Know Before Booking Such Service?
Airport transportation can be hard to organize as part of your trip. You have to take care of everything - the hotel, the flights, your schedule during the travel. In all of this booking airport transportation seems like a small but very important piece of your travel planning. In this article, we are going to give you some information that you should know before booking an airport transfers.
Book your airport transfers in advance
If you want to hire the best airport transportation service, you have to book in advance. Your arrangements should be in that order:
- get a plane ticket;
- book a hotel;
- hire company for the airport transfers.
In that way, you will do everything at once and you won’t have to come back to this task later. Some companies even have better rates for airport transportation when you book in advance. Tell the company how many people you will be and how much luggage you are going to have your arrival and departure time, and the hotel you are staying in.
The price of airport transportation does not equal quality
When you look to hire a company for bus charter service from the airport, the price is one of the things you consider. Many people think that the price of the service is related to the quality that is provided. For many people providing airport transfers, this is not the case. You should look for the best price-quality ratio. When you see the options within your price range make sure also to check:
- reviews from customers;
- the vehicles of the company;
- the safety rating.
Those are all important things to consider before booking an airport transportation service.
Make sure they know how much luggage you have
This may sound silly but sometimes the company might forget to ask how many suitcases or bags you carry with you. If you are a big group that really matters. If you have a lot of luggage, demand that you be picked up by a vehicle with enough room both for you and your suitcases. In some situations, you have to be jammed together and that is not a pleasant experience. So, always remember to mention this little thing.
Don’t go for an airport shuttle
We have already written about the benefits of hiring a charter bus for airport transportation. However, we have to say it again - don’t go for an airport shuttle. They offer fine transportation service, however, they lack proper customer care and 24/7 availability. On the other hand, they make a number of mandatory stops for people to get on and off. And after a long flight that can be a little annoying.
If you are coming to Chicago on business, as a tourist, or for some other occasion and you need a reliable company for airport transportation, we are here to help. Just give us a call!
Explore our fleet of charter buses and vehicles
For any company that operates charter buses, the fleet they have is one of the most important investments. We at Bus Connection always try to set the standard for bus charter when it comes to great customer service. This means hiring the best chauffeurs and maintaining new and clean vehicles, providing comfort, safety, and enjoyable experience to the people that use our services.
Why it is important to invest in high-quality charter buses and vehicles?
We treat all the people that choose our service as a family. We believe that the process of bus charter is not simply taking a person from point A to point B. The whole service has to be an enjoyable experience with positive memories. An essential part of our values is to provide great customer service. This is why over time a lot of people that have used our service become loyal customers and book charter busses with us. Part of the delivery of the great customer experience is being able to provide comfort in nice and clean vehicles. We know that and invest a lot in our fleet.
Bus charter on another level
It doesn’t matter if you need airport transportation or charter buses for something else. We have perfectly suitable vehicles for any situation, group of people, and destination. In our fleet we have:
Full-Size Luxury SUV - up to 6 people
Mercedes Sprinter - up to 14 people
Executive Mini Bus - up to 24 people
Executive Coach Bus - 35 to 39 people
Full-Size Motor Coach - up to 56 people
Why you should choose Bus Connection?
The next time you need a bus charter in Chicago you can rely on us. We provide:
- charter buses and vehicles for any transportation need;
- our chauffeurs are experienced;
- your safety and comfort are our main priority;
- we operate 24/7 and have an impeccable safety rating.
For the past 14 years, we have been one of the bus charter companies that set the standard when it comes to airport transportation and any other type of bus charter service. We have experience and offer the following services in the Illinois state area:
- corporate transportation;
- airport transportation;
- transportation for sports events and concerts;
- weddings and special events transportation;
- tour transportation;
- sports team transportation.
If you are looking for a high-quality bus charter service, feel free to contact us!
Airport Transportation - How to Choose the Company?
Choosing airport transportation can be a difficult task. There are numerous options to consider when looking for the proper company for airport transfers. We have already discussed that it is better to book a charter service rather than an airport shuttle. In this article, we are going to provide some details on the things you should look for.
Check the safety rating of the company offering airport transportation
There is quite an easy way to find a company that has the best safety rating and choose it for your airport transfers. You can do this by looking up the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. There you will see all the companies that you can use for airport shuttle and charter service.
Check the reviews regarding customer experience
Let's face it - airport transportation is not just taking you from point A to point B anymore. When you hire a company you want to have a great customer experience. The best charter companies provide an amazing experience to their customers. They treat them like family, send well-dressed chauffeurs, and use the best busses. This reflects on the ratings the company gets online. Trust the experience of other travelers.
24/7 availability
Most airport shuttle and charter bus companies don’t operate 24/7. This is another line that separates the good from the best. When you are going to need an airport transportation service at 2:00 AM you have to be sure that you will get it. Make sure to look for a company that is flexible and can work day and night.
Experience is vital
The transportation business is changing constantly and you want to hire a company that has the experience and a proven track record in the past. Otherwise, you might end up with somebody that started their business yesterday and does not know the first thing about proper charter service. Look for a company that has been delivering airport transfers for at least a few years before hiring them.
Top-notch vehicles for the airport transportation
It is very important for the company you hire to have new and clean vehicles. You don´t want to end up with a busted heating system on a cold or very hot day. This can make your ride to (or from) the airport quite unpleasant. If the company has clean and new busses and vans, that means that they care and make investments that will make their business better. That also means a better airport transportation service for you as a customer.
We at Bus Connection check off the list of all of the requirements listed above. If you are looking for a reliable company for airport transfers, just give us a call.
Airport shuttle or bus charter - what to choose?
There are many different kinds of airport transportation. Most of the people flying in are wondering if they should hire an airport shuttle service or charter transportation to pick them up from Midway or O’Hare. In this article, we are going to cover the pros and cons of each option and help you in making your decision.
Availability
It is very important to know that you can rely on transportation that is in line with your schedule. Sometimes the flights arrive quite late and there are limited available options to book. While airport shuttles work with a strict schedule, companies that provide charter services like Bus Connection are on the clock 24/7. This provides a more convenient option related to your schedule and means that you don’t have to wait.
Bus Charter customer service
You might think that it is just a transportation service but it should be much more. When it comes to airport transportation you don’t have to be just taken from point A to point B. And this is what most airport shuttle service companies do. For us at Bus Connection customer care is on top of the list. Our professional chauffeurs treat our passengers like we are welcoming a family member back to Chicago. We know that you had a long and exhausting flight and we will take you home safely and in complete comfort.
You will be alone for the ride
When you use the airport shuttle service there is a good chance that some other people will travel with you. And that might not always be a pleasant experience. When you choose to book charter services you can outline that you want to be alone for the ride. During Covid-19 times this is an important consideration that must be taken into account. Besides - you won’t have to listen to people talking loudly and can make your plans for what to do in Chicago during your trip to the hotel.
Comfort during your trip
After a long flight, you want to feel comfortable. As we all know, the seats on the planes are not providing enough space and this can lead to some unpleasant experience. All the vehicles in our fleet provide comfort and enough space for you to feel good. You might even fall asleep while we drive you home or to your hotel.
Some other things you should consider when choosing between airport shuttle or bus charter:
- Prices;
- Safety rating;
- How big your group is.
When you put together all the variables you will be able to make the best decision for your situation. If you choose to hire a bus charter company, feel free to contact us. With our 14 years of experience, we are the best choice for airport transportation for Chicago.
Arriving in Chicago for Christmas? Here is what not to miss!
If you are arriving in Chicago for Christmas we can just envy you. The holidays are the perfect time to visit the “Windy City”. It doesn’t matter if you are coming over to see relatives or just decided to spend Christmas in an interesting place. There is a lot to see and do in Chicago in the winter, most of all during the festive season. In this article, we are going to give you some tips and tricks that will make your stay perfect. Also, we will show some things that are too good to miss out on.
Consider Chicago airport transportation
We start with airport transportation. As you can imagine, over the holidays everything is crazy and a lot of people are either coming to or leaving Chicago. It is better to book a charter service from the airport in advance. Once you know when you are arriving just take care of that and get it off your mind. The best option is always to book the same company on the way to the airport for your outgoing flight as well. If you have a lot of luggage you can ask for a bigger car and assistance from the driver. And if you are a group of people, the price will go down. From all the options out there, this seems to be the best one to get in and out of the city.
Go see the Christmas tree
Every person from Chicago will tell you to go and see the Christmas tree. It is traditionally in Millenium Park. There are so many lights, that you will see it from far away. It is a great place to take some photos with the family. You can enjoy a walk around the park as well. The Christmas tree will be there by the 9th of January, so there is plenty of time to see it. It is interesting to note that this is the 108th Christmas tree of the city of Chicago. A great tradition that is carried out for over a century. And to be honest - it just gets prettier with each passing year.
Christmas shopping
Chicago is a great place to do your Christmas shopping. We doubt that you will be carrying bags of presents around O'Hare or Midway when you are arriving. Plan the trip in a way that will allow you to shop for presents in the city. This is a great way to explore, see all of the beauty from the decorations and feel the festive spirit. Besides, if you are buying presents for your family, you can d double-check on some of your ideas.
Visit the Christkindlmarket
Chicago has a tradition to host a each year Christmas market. In 2020 because of Covid-19, there was no such activity. However, this year everything is back! This german-inspired market is located on Daley Plaza. It will be there by the 24th of December. You will have the chance to visit if you are arriving a few days earlier before Christmas.
Go ice skating
Another great idea for winter family activity! Ice skating is an option for everyone that visits Chicago. And it is an opportunity for some quality time. Just be careful not to fall! There is a Skating Ribbon located at Maggie Daley Park in Downtown Chicago. It will remain there until March and you have all the time in the world to enjoy it! If you don’t like big crowds, we suggest checking when it is less busy and going at that time. And the final touch that will inspire the art lovers - the designs for this winter come as an inspiration from the work of Vincent van Gogh himself.
We wish you the most amazing Christmas ever! Chicago is the best place to enjoy it!
Visiting relatives in Chicago? 5 essential things you should consider
So, you are visiting relatives in Chicago? Welcome to our beautiful city. Spending time with your family is always a good thing, especially if you haven’t seen them for a long time. In this article, we are going to cover several tips that will make your stay more than amazing. Unfortunately, most people don’t consider these four things important, but they matter. Starting with airport transportation in Chicago to the presents you are going to pick out.
Don’t go for a surprise visit
Some people consider surprise visits something good. And they are - when they fit in the schedule of the relatives that you are visiting. It is better to give notice to your family when you are going to travel. Consider that it might not be a good time. They can be planning a trip themselves or doing some repair works around the house. If they are aware of your visit, they can plan something special and be prepared. If you show on the door unannounced, chances are that it can backfire and cause tension. If you are determined to surprise them, at least consult your idea with a member of the family you are visiting and plan the whole thing together.
Combine the trip with an important family event
Every family visit is better when there is a proper occasion to celebrate. It might be Christmas or the birthday of the sister you are visiting. In this way, the whole experience will be more enjoyable for you and them. Family events are a great chance to catch up, go down memory lane and spend quality time together. Those are the moments when relatives are appreciated the most. And if you haven’t seen yours in a long time, we strongly recommend that you choose such an occasion.
Consider Chicago airport transportation
When you land in Chicago, it is best to book airport charter services. Sure, your relatives will ask to come and pick you up. However, we advise that you save them the trip and time. It will be better to arrive straight to their home, rather than having someone from the family drive you. That will give them more time to prepare, and imagine that your flight arrives at a time that is not suitable for them. Cover this one yourself. Imagine the scenario - the charter service leaves you in front of the house, and everyone is waiting for you at the dinner table. We can hardly imagine a better welcome!
Prepare and bring gifts
You know how they all say - don’t bring gifts, that is okay. Do not listen to them. Everyone loves presents. Young children - the most. You don’t have to show up as Santa Clause, but prepare even small gifts that everyone will love. A baseball hat for the husband, something nice that is suitable for his wife - a book maybe. For the children - speak with their parents. Candy, toys, or clothes can be options that work. Just don’t get them a pony or a pet. You will probably never be invited to visit again.
Leave your schedule empty
Don’t plan anything before you visit your relatives. There is a very good chance that they have a plan for your stay. They will probably want to take you around Chicago and show you the landmarks, spend quality time with you and even go out for drinks. It won’t be wise to have some plans of your own before hearing what they have in store for you. Leave your schedule blank. Family comes first - if you want to catch up with some old friends in the city, speak with them after you know the plans of your relatives.
Visiting Chicago is always a nice experience. When you combine it with a family visit it is awesome. Make sure that you enjoy your stay but think of all the little details before you get on the plane to fly in.