A Complete Guide to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

As​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ a major hub in the United States, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) handles millions of passengers annually and offers a variety of both domestic and international flights. With its numerous terminals, extensive carrier network, and state-of-the-art facilities, ORD is a key player in the aviation industry. Here is a thorough guide of the ORD Airport that includes all the details, such as the terminal map, ways to get around, a range of dining, shopping, and other amenities, enabling you to travel through the airport like a pro.

Overview of Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) for Travelers

Here​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ is the summary of Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), one of the largest public airports. It has several terminals and runways. At the same time, it is home to numerous airlines, serves a large number of passengers each year, and offers connections to worldwide destinations.

Explore Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Terminals and Layout

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports globally, with four numbered terminals, nine lettered concourses, and 215 gates. Knowing the terminals and their layouts can make navigating ORD much easier for travelers.

Terminal 1

Terminal​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 1 is mostly dedicated to United Airlines, Lufthansa, and All Nippon Airways departures. You will find several facilities here, including check-in counters, dining options, and more. 

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is exclusively reserved for major airlines such as Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, and Denver Air Connection. 

Terminal 3

Many​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ airlines use Terminal 3, including American Airlines, British Airways, Contour Airlines, Iberia Airlines, and Japan Airlines. 

Terminal 5

Terminal​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 5 is mainly the home of Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and those foreign carriers that do not fly out of Terminals 1–3. Besides, it has U.S. Customs and Border Protection offices for international arrivals that are not precleared. Terminal 5 features 35 irregularly numbered gates along one concourse, M, and among them, there are three gates suitable for an Airbus A380, the world’s largest commercial ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌aircraft.

Connecting Between Terminals

Terminals​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 1–3 are connected airside by a walkway, so passengers can take advantage of the secure area during their transfers. On the other hand, Terminal 5 is divided from the rest by taxiways and therefore is not directly connected to Terminals 1–3. Passengers passing between Terminal 5 and the other terminals ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌can:

Use​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ a landside shuttle bus or the Airport Transit System (ATS) to get there, requiring security rescreening.

Use an airside shuttle bus, as it is the only airside connection, which runs every 15 minutes between 11:30 am and 9:30 pm and links Terminal 5 with Terminals 1 and ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌3.

A Complete List of Airlines at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Finding​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ out your path at O’Hare might be somewhat confusing, like a maze, especially when some airlines have their departures and arrivals in different terminals. To make it easier for you, we have listed the ORD Airport airlines below.

Everything You Need to Know About ORD Airport Services

Chicago O’Hare really goes the extra mile to make sure you’re not just sitting around waiting. With reliable technology and a range of passenger perks, the airport is designed to keep you connected and comfortable while you’re on the move. Whether you need a quiet spot to recharge or a hand finding your way, O’Hare makes the entire travel experience feel more seamless.

Airport Wi-Fi

Free​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Wi-Fi is at your disposal across all the terminals, both before and after security. To get online, just enable Wi-Fi on your device, pick either “Boingo Hotspot” or _Free_ORD_Wi-Fi, and open a browser to access a non-https URL. Select “Watch Ad to Connect” to connect to the internet. You can also call Boingo Wireless Customer Care at 1-800-880-4117 if you need ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌help.

Check-In Facilities

Check-in​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ facilities at ORD are hassle-free and convenient, with a variety of facilities such as airline counters, self-service kiosks, and online options to make your trip off to a smooth and productive ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌start.

Power Stations

ORD​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ offers Power Stations with seats, counters, and AC outlets so that guests can recharge their laptops, phones, or mobile devices for free. Each station accommodates 4-8 passengers and includes a wheelchair-accessible work station. They are scattered across the ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌terminals.

Airline Lounges

ORD​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ has several luxurious lounges across the terminals to provide passengers the opportunity to relax and unwind before their flight. Some of the prominent lounges at the ORD Airport include the Sky Club Lounge, American Flagship Lounge, SAS Lounge, and more. 

Banking & ATMs

Seaway​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Bank provides a full range of banking services, such as cashier checks, foreign currency exchange (more than 200 currencies), commercial deposits, and payroll cashing for employees. There are ATMs of local and national banks at the airport that can be used for withdrawals, deposits, and account ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌inquiries.

Travelers Aid

Travellers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Aid Chicago extends the services of guidance, consultation, and very limited 1:1 assistance to at-risk travelers such as those with disabilities and/or trauma. Volunteers are available at seven information desks and throughout the terminals to help you find your way, explain public transit options, or assist with any other airport navigation needs. To get help, dial (773) 894-2427.

Passenger Paging & Chapel

Airlines​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ can announce passengers by name through the public address system of the terminals for timely messages. If you require paging assistance, please contact your airline directly. 

If you want a quiet place to think, the ORD Chapel in the mezzanine of Terminal 2 is equipped with prayer spaces, worship materials, and Juma’ ablution (wudu) facilities for your ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌convenience.

Mother’s Room and Lactation Pods 

You will find the mother’s room in every terminal. The rooms are clean and comfortable, providing mothers with a place to rest and relax while nursing or caring for their children. The rooms include features such as comfortable seating, electrical outlets, diaper-changing surfaces, a sink, and soft lighting. They are also ADA-compliant. 

Explore Additional Amenities at ORD Airport

Various amenities and facilities at the airport are designed to make your trip comfortable, profitable, and fun. There are fitness and family areas, hotels on site, and even quiet rooms for reflection to suit different types of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌travelers.

Hilton Health Club

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Hilton Athletic Club offers day memberships to travelers who want to keep an active lifestyle. You can use the membership to work out before, after, or during your flight layover. The club is on the Mezzanine Level of the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel. It can be reached through underground walkways from all domestic terminals and via the Airport Transit System from Terminal ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌5.

Family Lounge

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Family Lounge in Terminal 2 (Main Hall, near Gate F1) is an area that families can use for fun and relaxation. It features numerous bright seating areas to help children relax, charging stations, and stroller parking. There is always live entertainment, especially during holidays, featuring musicians and caricature artists.

Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel

Located across from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, the Hilton is connected to all domestic terminals via underground walkways and to Terminal 5 via the ATS. The hotel also offers direct access to the CTA Blue Line for easy downtown travel.

Yoga Room

Located on the Mezzanine Level of Terminal 3 Rotunda, the Yoga Room provides a tranquil space for relaxation and reflection away from airport noise.

Find the Best Parking at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

ORD​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ provides several parking choices that cater to every traveler’s needs, from short-term hourly parking to long-term economy lots. There are several garages and surface lots available close to each terminal, so that choice of a parking spot will not only save time but also lessen your travel ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌stress.

Main Parking Garages

The Main Garage, next to the domestic terminals, provides hourly parking on Level 1 and daily parking on Levels 2-6, as well as in Lots B and C. Terminal 5 Garage and Lot D offer 1,700 short- and long-term spaces, 48 EV chargers, and direct access via an enclosed pedestrian bridge. The hourly parking system is for those who wish to park for less than three hours. 

Economy Parking Options

Here is what you must know about the economy parking options. 

• Economy Lot F: Long-term​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ covered parking is available at the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) on levels 4 & 5. Free Airport Transit System (ATS) rides take passengers to all terminals. There are 24 Level II EV charging stations, a clearance of 8’4”, and daily rates vary from $3 to $30 depending on ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌the parking duration. For example, when you park for 0 – 1 hour you will be charged $3, whereas those parking for 4-24 hours will incur a $30 fee. 
• Economy Lot G: It is located to the southwest of Mannheim and Zemke Road, and just north of Terminal 5. Passengers can use the ATS or shuttle buses to get to the terminals. The charges are $3 for the first hour and $16 for the whole ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌day.
• Economy Lot H: You will find this lot at the northeast corner of Bessie Coleman Drive and Coffey Road. It offers shuttle service similar to Lot G, with the same hourly and daily rates.

Premier and Reserved Parking

This is what you need to know about the premier and reserved parking options at the ORD Airport. 

• Premier Parking: This is the closest to Terminals 1 and 3. The spaces are covered, and all of them are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance booking is required, and the daily charge is $6,3 inclusive of fees and taxes. 
• Reserved Parking: Avoid​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ the hassle of looking around by reserving a covered parking space near the terminal beforehand. It is located at the Main Garage Level 4 or Economy Lot F. The reservation fee is $10 per day (parking cost and tax not ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌included).

Additional Parking Information

Here are some more facts to consider regarding the ORD Airport’s parking details. 

• Accessible Parking: Available in all lots; contact the Parking Garage Office for details.
• Long-term Parking: Vehicles parked for more than 30 days must be arranged in advance.
• Vehicle Assistance: Dead batteries, flat tires, or booted vehicles can be handled by calling the Parking Garage Office at (773) 686-7530.
• Payment Methods: Cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, and Carte Blanche are accepted.

Employee and Contractor Parking

• Employee Parking: Provided at Lots C, D, and E. Monthly rates range from $100–$350. Access through employer authorization only.
• Contractor Parking: Lot J for airport contractors. Monthly rate: $140. Requests must go through the contractor or supervisor.

What to Expect at Chicago O’Hare Security?

At​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ the ORD safety comes first. The TSA manages all checkpoint locations, ensuring the security process runs smoothly. Additionally, international travelers can skip lengthy lines with programs such as Global Entry and Mobile Passport Control, which enable faster, stress-free entry at the airport. Passengers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ can also examine ORD Security Wait Times for a better idea and to cut down wait ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌times.

TSA Guidelines to Speed Up Your Airport Journey

Preparation​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ for security screening before arrival at the airport can make a traveler’s experience fast and hassle-free. To help passengers, the TSA shares tips and rules to help them plan.

TSA ConfirmID

Travellers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ without a valid ID (state-issued non-REAL ID, among others) can use TSA ConfirmID, a modernized, fee-based identity verification service. This measure improves security and ensures compliance with federal standards by preventing unauthorized access to domestic aviation systems.

REAL ID

Travelers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ ensure their ID is compliant with the REAL ID Act, which is a requirement for all domestic flights within the ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌U.S.

TSA Pre-Check

This program is designed for low-risk travelers and service members of the US Armed Forces to speed up the screening process at participating airports. By using TSA Pre✓™, travelers can get through security more quickly, can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and do not need to take their laptops and liquids out of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌bags.

Global Entry

Global​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Entry is an expedited clearance program for pre-approved, low-risk travelers returning to the U.S. It is overseen by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). At designated airports, participants can use automated kiosks to bypass immigration lines entirely. Although it primarily serves frequent international travelers, anyone can sign up, with no minimum travel requirement.

Pack Safe Initiative

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has an initiative called Pack Safe that helps travelers know what they can bring on an airplane. A quick review of this advice will help ensure a hassle-free, delay-free security screening experience at checkpoints.

Complete Guide to Transportation Options at ORD

Getting to and from ORD is convenient, with a variety of transportation options, including shuttles, buses, taxis, limousines, rideshare, and public transit. Whether you are going downtown Chicago or connecting to the nearby suburbs, ORD has what you ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌need.

Shuttles

Hotel and off-airport parking shuttle pickups have moved to Terminal 2 Arrivals curbside, from the bus shuttle center. Some shuttles continue to pick up at Terminal 5, so check with your provider directly. These services make traveling between hotels, parking lots, and terminals quick and hassle-free.

Regional Buses

Regional buses now connect via the Airport Transit System (ATS) to the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) at 10255 W. Zemke Boulevard. These buses serve locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Popular providers include:

• Coach USA / Van Galder: Janesville, Madison, South Beloit, Rockford; 1-800-747-0994
• Lafayette Limo Inc.: Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN); 1-765-498-3828
• PCC / Peoria Charter Coach: Peoria, Bloomington/Normal, Champaign, Chicago; 1-800-448-0572
• Reindeer Shuttle: Chicago, Purdue University, Indianapolis, Crestwood; 765-637-5124

Taxis, Limousines & Rideshare

With taxis, limousines, and rideshares, commuting across O’Hare becomes easy and convenient. 

• Taxis: Taxis are available at the lower-level curb front outside baggage claim at each terminal. Fares to downtown Chicago average $50, with shared rides to select destinations starting at $24 per person. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available; call 1-888-928-2227.
• Limousines: It offers pre-arranged service to Chicago and the suburbs. Upon claiming your luggage, call your service provider to confirm the pickup location and vehicle details.
• Rideshare: Passengers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ using rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are picked up at the designated upper-level zones – Terminal 2 (Zones 2A–2G, with orange signage) and Terminal 3 (Zones 3G–3K, with green signage). On all lower levels, black car services are still operating at all ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌terminals.

Car Rentals:

 To​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ pick up or drop off a rental car at O’Hare, you will be required to go to the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). It’s located at 10255 W. Zemke Blvd. The quickest way is to take the Airport Transit System (ATS) train, which links all terminals directly to the rental hub.

Drop-Off & Kiss ‘n’ Fly

This is ideal for quick drop-offs, helping passengers bypass congestion on terminal roadways during peak arrival and departure times. This point connects to the ATS, which services Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, as well as the MMF, Economy Parking, and bus services. Drop-offs are off Mannheim Road and Zemke Blvd., with a 15-minute pick-up limit.

Public Transit

• CTA Blue Line: The “L” train provides 24-hour service between O’Hare and downtown Chicago. Access the station via the lower level of the parking garage or ATS from Terminal 5. Purchase your fare with cash or credit at the station vending machines.
• Metra Commuter Rail: Metra’s North Central Service connects O’Hare to downtown Chicago’s Union Station and north-central suburbs. Use the O’Hare Transfer Station to access these trains.

Where to Eat and Shop at Chicago O’Hare

Several dining and snack options at Chicago O’Hare (ORD) offer a good mix of local Chicago favorites, quick bites, and 24-hour vending across different terminals.

Accessibility Services at ORD Airport 

ORD is committed to provide accessibility services to support passengers with limited mobility or any disability. If you require any medical aid, wheelchair assistance or service animal arrangements, you may directly connect with your airline for further help. 

For accessibility services concerning the airport, or for any complaints or comments contact the ADA coordinator at 773-894-3728. You may even email them at ORD_ADAcoordinator@cityofchicago.org. 

Aira 

This is a unique service for visual interpretation making visual information easier, and more accessible for those with low or no vision. The ORD Airport has partnered with Aira and provides free access to remote visual interpretation to those with visual impairments. 

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 

This is a unique program for individuals with autism, dementia, increased anxiety, or any other hidden disability. ORD has partnered with this program, through which individuals with any disability not visible to the human eye can reach out to airport authorities for extra assistance. To make themselves identifiable they may wear a sunflower-themed hat, lanyard, or bracelet. The sunflower program is available across all the terminals at ORD.

Sensory Friendly Resources 

The airport has plentiful of sensory resources for passenger’s convenience. The sensory maps are visual guides that have high and low sensory areas clearly demarcated to help travelers plan their journey. Social stories and sensory-friendly videos help prepare passengers for the journey in advance. Passengers can collect sensory bags from the information desk containing visual aids, headphone, and fidgets. 

Companion Plus Restrooms 

This compact and accessible restroom is designed in a way to help travelers requiring extra assistance. This will also be of immense help for those requiring a caregiver’s assistance for changing or toileting. Some of the features these restrooms have include an accessible sink and toilet, two accessible showers, automatic doors, and more. 

Elevators 

There are elevators across all terminals. Each one of them are equipped with button panels having Braille as well as raised numerals. 

Navigate ORD Easily with Interactive Airport Maps

Travelers​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ will find it easy to move around ORD using Interactive Airport Maps, which provide detailed layouts of terminals, gates, lounges, dining, and shopping. Interactive ORD Airport Maps help travelers plan routes, locate facilities, and navigate the airport efficiently, providing a smooth travel experience.

Conclusion:

Chicago​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ O’Hare International Airport (ORD) provides a level of convenience that hardly any traveler can do without, with efficient transport and security right to the doorstep of great eats, shopping, and wellness. With services that focus on comfort, connectivity, and productivity, ORD has got it all, making every trip start and end with ease and ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌confidence.

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