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To get a Chicago experience, get a copy of Tortas Frontera (Terminals 1, 3, 5), serving Mexican-themed sandwiches by the chef Rick Bayless- excellent in content since it is the best to have a wholesome meal before a long flight. On standby in Terminal 3 is the Publican Tavern that serves wholesome Midwestern comfort food and is ideal to those travelers who seek to have a sit-down experience. To be faster, Wow Bao (Terminal 1) will sell steamed buns and light Asian foods. In case you are hungry and in need of pizza, there is the Chicago-style pizza offered by Reggio in Terminal 3. In Terminal 3, La Colombe or Terminal 2, Big Shoulders Coffee will have a tendency of attracting gourmet coffee lovers.
Duty Free is predominantly located in Terminal 5 and has the typical set of fragrances, liquor, confectionery and beauty products - handy when you are departing on an international flight. Hudson outlets in all the terminals include necessities such as travel products, books, and snacks. The InMotion (Terminal 3) is useful when you are in need of last-minute electronic or adapters. In terms of souvenirs, Chicago Sports stores at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 have items and merchandise of the local team such as the Cubs and Bulls.
The concentration of United Club lounges is on the Terminal 1, which is operated by United and other Star Alliance employees when flying. American Airlines Admirals Clubs are located in Terminals 2 and 3 providing a more relaxed place to work and enjoy airy snacks. Swissport Lounge situated in terminal 5 also allows Priority Pass and serves international travelers who want to have a relaxing moment before boarding. Most of the lounges have showers, but some may be out of range and need to be requested at the counter. Terminal 2 comes with a children's play area and some of its quieter corners in case you would want to relax in an open area.
Kinetic art installations are lit up neon and located underground on the Terminal 1 walkway; it is one of the iconic features of O'Hare and makes a stretch. There is usually a rotating show of local artists in Terminal 5. All areas have walking paths and one of them can be surprisingly nice during low season. In case you have more time, go to the aeroponic garden at Terminal 3- a smaller attraction that farmers practice vertical farming by using herbs and leafy greens.
remain airside and target one terminal cluster. Assuming you are in Terminal 1, a walk through the B-C tunnel, have a meal in Tortas Frontera, visit a United Club should you be a member, etc. All this is a 10-12 minute walk radius, which provides enough time to relax before boarding.
You are allowed to leave the airport, but only on the condition that you are coming within the country or have already been granted U.S. immigration. The blue line is a direct train that only takes about 45 minutes between O Hare and downtown Chicago. To take a short loop, commute to Logan Square or Jefferson Park which are within easy reach to have a quick bite and go back with at least 90 minutes to time off to secure your checking.
In Chicago, it is possible to do it in half-a-day. Ride the blue line to the Loop (approximately one hour), admire stories in Millennium Park, circle the riverfront, and have lunch in a downtown diner. When leaving towards a certain destination the day before you do not have much time, the rule is to start about three hours before you leave to give you space in case of security, expected train delays and the winter jam.
The duty-free is mostly found at the Terminal 5 and targets international departure. Travelers will encounter perfumes, premium spirits, beauty products as well as confectionery that are common to the travelers. It is always worth it to compare the price, the gift and chocolates may be less expensive at downtown shops.
The best place to dine is in Terminal 1 and 3, more so the ones that are locally inspired. Most terminals offer vegetarian food, but options become better towards the larger food courts. Dining out can be restricted at night thus it is always good to have dinner at an earlier time when your departure is expected to be later.
The majority of lounges are concentrated in Terminal 1 and 3, although some are also available in Terminal 5 in smaller quantities, yet on the increase. The common facilities are showers, workstations and light meals. It is controlled by the type of ticket content, frequent flier status or day pass using partner programs.
The CTA train Blue Line offers a sure way to downtown Chicago. It is provided with taxis and ride-hailing pick-ups that are located at specific centers outside every terminal and may have traffic congestion during rush periods. Airport shuttle services to the adjacent hotels are frequent, particularly around Terminal 5.
ATMs are available in all terminals, with currency exchange primarily in Terminal 5. SIM cards are limited, so eSIMs or city-based purchases work better. Baggage wrapping and first-aid stations are easy to locate, with signage placed throughout the concourses.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | ORD |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Terminals | 94 (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5) |
| Wi-Fi | Free with periodic reconnection |
| 24×7 Services | Yes; essential services and ATS operate around the clock |
| Wheelchair Access | Available; request through airline or Airport Assist |