Midway Airport: A Cost-Conscious Choice With Surprising Features

by Sky Skylar | February 16, 2025 | 0 Comments

I’ve spent countless hours immersed in everything from flight schedules to passenger feedback, delving into the realities of traveling through Chicago’s Midway International Airport. Despite its spotty reputation, there’s a refreshing honesty in knowing that this no-frills airport caters to travelers keen on saving time and money while still enjoying a mildly modern experience. In 2025, I’ve noticed more people warming up to Midway’s compact layout and convenient link to downtown—proof that sometimes less can be more.

Overview: A No-Frills Gateway

Overview: A No-Frills Gateway

Midway has always stood out for its single-terminal configuration split into three concourses. From my perspective, this layout actually makes it quite straightforward: once you’re through security, you can navigate concourses quickly, reducing the typical airport chaos. A recent study from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics noted that Midway still faces more weather-related delays than the national average, yet its relatively smaller size means lines rarely escalate to panic-inducing levels.

Over the years, I’ve observed families making the most of stopovers here. Although you won’t find flashy decor or over-the-top art installations, there’s a down-to-earth charm. Concourse A houses that quirky toy store, brimming with brightly colored games appealing to kids and adults reminiscing about childhood. Though amenities remain limited, Midway’s easy walkways and manageable footprint continue to resonate with anyone who doesn’t crave a sprawling airport experience.

What often catches people by surprise is just how close Midway is to downtown Chicago. The CTA Orange Line, originating outside the airport, may require some walking, but it’s a straightforward journey that gets you to the heart of the city in about 25 minutes. Given the hustle of big-city travel, I find that saving extra minutes really does make a difference.

Facilities and Amenities

Facilities and Amenities

One of my main observations about Midway’s facilities: it isn’t here to wow you with super-sized decor or broad culinary experiences. Instead, there’s a basic food court setup, anchored by recognizable chains and quick-bite counters. According to industry data, about 65% of passengers reported “adequate” or “pleasant” dining options, though many expressed the desire for healthier choices. If you’re expecting top-shelf international cuisine, you might be disappointed—but for travelers looking to save budget and hassle, Midway’s offerings often hit the spot.

Despite the limited dining area, I’ve seen families genuinely relieved by amenities such as the dedicated Mother’s Room, available 24/7. It’s a quiet, private space seldom found in older airports. Elsewhere, seating can occasionally be scarce during peak hours, but a well-timed arrival typically solves that. For travelers who assess airports by their “sleepability,” user-submitted reviews remain mixed. Some cite easy access to benches near lesser-used gates, while others say they’ve had to hunt for any soft surface at all.

Speaking of comfort, those looking for moments of zen will appreciate the small yoga room in Concourse C. Though it’s not grand, it offers a brief respite for stretching or simply breathing in quiet solitude. I’ve spoken to fellow passengers who swear by it as their secret relaxation spot before a flight.

The Club MDW Lounge

The Club MDW Lounge

The introduction of The Club MDW back in 2019 was nothing short of an airport milestone, especially for those of us who appreciate a calm oasis within the bustle of terminal concourses. I often tell people: if you’re a Priority Pass holder, definitely take advantage of this lounge’s complimentary entry. The lounge itself features subtle art deco elements that pay homage to Midway and Chicago’s history, alongside rotating exhibits of local photography.

One aspect I find particularly modern is the digital waitlist system. If the lounge is nearing its 76-seat capacity, you can add your name remotely and receive a notification once your spot is ready—a real stress-reducer during peak travel times. Day passes remain at $50, which some travelers call a great deal, especially if you plan to spend multiple hours at the airport. I’ve seen people recharge here with free Wi-Fi, snacks, and a decent selection of beverages while unwinding in surprisingly plush chairs.

What impresses me most is how The Club MDW seems to elevate the overall passenger perception of Midway. A 2024 passenger satisfaction survey revealed a noticeable bump in approval ratings once travelers discovered lounge access. For frequent flyers who thrive on a more comfortable space, this lounge is steadily becoming an essential Midway feature.

Modernization Efforts

Modernization Efforts

Midway kicked off a $323 million modernization project in 2017, with the intent to upgrade everything from security checkpoints to parking garages. While deadlines have flexed over time, by 2025, significant improvements are visible: the security area no longer clogs up during rush periods quite like it used to, and the new signage helps keep even first-time visitors on track. I appreciate how these efforts underscore Midway’s ambition to move beyond its “bare-bones” reputation.

That said, I’ve noticed that ongoing work can occasionally create pockets of congestion and rerouted walking paths. If you’re traveling during peak seasons—like summer or the holidays—plan extra time to navigate any construction zones. According to a recent update from the Chicago Department of Aviation, the endgame is to position Midway as a friendlier, more efficient gateway for domestic flyers who want simpler access to Chicagoland. In my book, these gradual improvements are a step in the right direction.

From an architectural standpoint, the new concession areas feel brighter, with more seating options and an improved flow—perfect for grabbing a quick coffee without bumping elbows every few steps. In speaking with local airport staff, I’m told further expansions for parking and baggage handling could be next on the horizon, but details remain under wraps. If you’re a frequent Midway traveler, consider each trip a mini-adventure to watch progress unfold in real time.

Comparing Midway and O’Hare

Comparing Midway and O'Hare

Deciding between Midway and O’Hare often boils down to personal priorities: do you value simplicity or a wide array of international carriers and routes? O’Hare is undeniably bigger—some might say massive—and it can handle virtually every airline you can think of, from American to Lufthansa. But based on my observations, that scale is a double-edged sword; navigating O’Hare during peak travel seasons can test even the most experienced flyer’s patience.

Midway, on the other hand, is ideal for anyone looking to hop in and out efficiently. It’s also a favorite among cost-conscious leisure travelers and business flyers who appreciate the variety of Southwest Airlines routes. A 2024 industry report showed that Midway’s average fares were around 12% cheaper than O’Hare’s for comparable domestic routes—a noteworthy gap for budget travelers.

In my view, the CTA Orange Line alone is reason enough for some folks to choose Midway. Getting downtown in around 25 minutes for just a few dollars remains a perk few major airports can match. While O’Hare is gradually improving with modernization plans of its own, you simply can’t beat the low-hassle vibe of Midway if all you need is a domestic connection and less time in transit.

Tips for Navigating MDW

Tips for Navigating MDW

When people ask me how to get the most out of Midway, I usually begin with timing. Aim to arrive a little earlier than you normally would, especially if there’s ongoing construction or a possible winter weather event. Airlines often recommend two hours for domestic flights, but given Midway’s smaller size, I’ve found that 90 minutes can be sufficient—just keep an eye on flight alerts.

TSA PreCheck is a huge help here. Midway’s dedicated PreCheck lane whisks you through quickly, though lines still vary based on the season. During peak times, especially Mondays and Fridays, I’ve noticed the lines can extend beyond what most travelers expect from a smaller airport. If you’re traveling with children or large groups, having PreCheck can be a game changer.

One final suggestion: don’t hesitate to explore beyond your gate area if you have spare time. I’ve discovered quiet pockets near lesser-used concourses, perfect for catching a quick nap or staying focused on some last-minute work. If you have a lengthy layover, you might invest in lounge access at The Club MDW or simply roam the food court for a quick bite. The key to enjoying Midway lies in embracing its straightforward design and leaning into the convenience factor.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

Midway’s journey from “worst” airport ranking to a more efficient domestic hub shows that you can’t judge a travel experience by labels alone. While it may not boast towering glass walls or endless restaurant options, it makes up for it with time savings and a genuinely friendly vibe. The modernization push is still a work in progress, but noticeable improvements have already started shaping a more comfortable environment.

For budget-minded flyers or those seeking a shorter commute to downtown, Midway remains a practical contender, particularly when every minute and dollar counts. In many ways, its smaller scale leads to a more predictable and manageable travel routine. That consistency is something I’ve grown to appreciate, especially when weighed against the unpredictability of larger airports.

Sky Skylar’s Take

If there’s one lesson I keep coming back to, it’s that big transformations can start with small, incremental changes. Midway’s ongoing facelift is a testament to that. I admire how it’s staying true to its roots—efficient, no-frills travel—while adding a splash of comfort with its new lounge, improved signage, and gradually expanding concessions.

When I see families and business travelers alike find a sense of ease here, it reaffirms my belief that sometimes less is more. Midway might not beam with glitz, but I think it’s that unpretentious air that keeps it relevant in the evolving travel landscape.

Follow us back to BoardingArea.

Also on BoardingArea
Josh Trips
Chase Sapphire Reserve Business DoorDash credit: not working despite my best efforts
I’ve been writing a lot about the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business card that I got in late…
Points With a Crew
Which Delta American Express card Is Best? (Higher Offers Are Back!)
5 of the Delta American Express cards are all all offering increased sign-up bonuses, including some of the highest that I've ever seen! You can get up to 95,000 Skymiles as a welcome offer by ...
Frequent Miler
World of Hyatt Card now gives you a choice between two mediocre welcome offers
There’s a second welcome offer available for the Chase World of Hyatt card. Unfortunately, it’s no better than the first. This new offer gets you two Hyatt Category 1-4 free night certificates after spending $4k within the first three months, then an additional 25,000 Hyatt points after a total of...
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Completing Expense Reports Was Never Bad for Me — Until it Took its Toll…
I never minded completing expense reports to be reimbursed for expenses incurred during business trips, as the instructions to complete them were usually straightforward to me — even though there was the occasional disagreement as to what expenses were allowed and which ones were not. They were usually resolved in a matter of a...
You Are Travel
You’ll Need to Swim to Get to This Marriott’s New Luxury Collection Hotel in the Greek Isles: Patmos Aktis Resort & Spa Now Open
Tl;dr – Patmos Aktis, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Greece is now open for reservations.  Marriott recently…
One Mile at a Time
New World Of Hyatt Card Bonus: Two Free Night Awards & 25K Points
The World of Hyatt Credit Card is one of the most lucrative hotel credit cards out there, and is a favorite of mine. We’ve just seen a new limited time welcome offer rolled out on this card. It’s not the most exciting offer ever, but many will prefer it to...
Monkey Miles
Bilt Rewards scores new $10.75B valuation, will leave Wells and move to Cardless, 2 new cards coming, points on mortgage payments, and more.
In a letter sent to members, Bilt Rewards CEO Ankur Jain announces a new whopping $10.75 Billion valuation after $250 million in new funding. $100 million of that comes from United Wholesale Mortgage with indications that we will learn a lot more about earning points on mortgages later this fall....
Your Mileage May Vary
7 Hotels In Hawaii That Still Offer Free Parking
Although it’s relatively easy to find motels that offer free parking, the same can’t be said for hotels (here are other differences between the 2 types of accommodations). Sure, you’ll…
Frequent Miler
Earn 30,000 Membership Rewards with new Amex Business Checking account
Currently, Amex has a 30,000 Membership Rewards welcome offer for opening a new Business Checking account, maintaining a $5,000 balance for 60 days, and completing 10 transactions on the account. The checking account earns 1.30% APY (on up to $500K in balance), 0.5 MR  per dollar on debit transactions, and...
Altitude Yes
Summer Air Travel: Do Airlines Compensate for Weather Delays and Cancellations?
Airlines typically offer little to no financial compensation during weather disruptions. What are your alternatives? The post Summer Air Travel: Do Airlines Compensate for Weather Delays and Cancellations? first appeared on Altitude Yes.
Live and Let’s Fly
Delta Air Lines Q2 2025 Earnings Beat Estimates, Stock Surges On Restored Guidance
Delta Air Lines reported better-than-expected financial results for Q2 2025 quarter. Shares jumped more than 10% as the carrier reinstated full-year guidance and raised its quarterly dividend. Laissez les bons temps roule for Delta. Delta Air Lines Posts Strong Q2 2025 Results, Stock Soars In a nutshell, Delta’s performance beat...
The Travel Sisters
Best Amazon Prime Day Travel & Luggage Deals – Day 3
The best Amazon Prime Day deals on travel gear, gadgets, luggage and other travel essentials. The post Best Amazon Prime Day Travel & Luggage Deals – Day 3 appeared first on The Travel Sisters.
View from the Wing
Delta Is Turning Ticket Pricing Over To AI—By Year-End, 20% Of Fares Will Exactly Match The Most You’re Willing To Spend
Twenty percent of Delta Air Lines airfares will be priced by AI by the end of the year, working to figure out how much each individual customer is willing to pay them. Continue reading Delta Is Turning Ticket Pricing Over To AI—By Year-End, 20% Of Fares Will Exactly Match The Most...
One Mile at a Time
Delta Plans “Basic” Business Class: Will Premium Unbundling Work?
Over time, we’ve seen the concept of ”basic economy” become pretty widespread, whereby the cheapest economy fares include the fewest perks. The purpose of this is twofold — to expand a carrier’s potential customer base, and to get existing customers to ”buy up” to a higher fare, in order to...
Points With a Crew
Prime Day Deals on Amazon Music Unlimited, Kindle Unlimited And Audible Premium Plus (plus tons of other deals)
As part of Amazon Prime Day, Amazon is offering deals on Audible Plus, Kindle Unlimited and Amazon Music Unlimited (plus check out the Prime Day deals!)
Frequent Miler
Bilt to ditch Wells Fargo for Cardless while adding two premium cards
Via an email sent to members and a separate press release, Bilt Rewards has announced a change that most folks have long expected: next year, it will be ending its relationship with Wells Fargo. Wells currently issues Bilt’s Mastercard, but a leak last year seemed to indicate that it was...
a passport and a suitcase in front of an airplane
BoardingArea
American Airlines Resumes Summer Flights to Copenhagen and Naples
What's New This Summer I've noticed how travelers crave more choices when booking transatlantic flights, and American Airlines really stepped up in 2024 by restarting seasonal routes to both Copenhagen (CPH) and Naples (NAP). According to recent data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, these types of expansions support an overall...
View from the Wing
Bilt Rewards Hits $10.75 Billion Valuation, Leaving Wells Fargo For 3 New Cardless Cards Coming In February
Bilt Rewards confirmed their new valuation of over $10 billion - specifically $10.75 billion - based on a $250 million fundraising round meant to fuel expansion beyond apartment rent and into homeownership. And they also shared big news: that they will be leaving Wells Fargo for Cardless. Continue reading Bilt Rewards...
One Mile at a Time
Wow: Bilt Launching Three Cardless Credit Cards, Ditching Wells Fargo
In late 2024, Bilt hinted at plans to make changes to its credit card portfolio, with the intent of moving to a tiered card structure. While details have been limited, a major announcement has just been made. Still, there are more questions than answers.
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
Flight Attendants Aren’t Happy The Feds Didn’t Consult Them Over End Of ‘Shoes Off’ Policy At TSA Checkpoints
Flight attendants have expressed frustration that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) did not first consult them over its recent and unexpected decision to end the ‘shoes off’ policy at TSA security checkpoints at airports across the United States. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem officially announced the new policy on July...
Your Mileage May Vary
Internet Rumor of the Week: Ritz-Carlton Card Fee Hike Edition
Let’s start with the good news: The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card’s annual fee isn’t increasing. That’s according to Upgraded Points and Miles to Memories, who received confirmation directly from Chase. So…
Miles To Memories
Earn 2 Free Nights and 25K Points with World of Hyatt Credit Card
The World of Hyatt Credit Card has launched a limited time offer for new cardmembers, which is available now through August 28, 2025. The post Earn 2 Free Nights and 25K Points with World of Hyatt Credit Card appeared first on Miles to Memories.
View from the Wing
9 Big Insights From Delta Air Lines Earnings Call: Upgrades Are Officially Back, Business Class Will Lose Perks, Lounge Crowding Ends Next Year
Delta’s latest earnings discussion revealed a major shift in attitude and planning around bringing back upgrades, slashing premium cabin perks that come from buying business class, and promising to eliminate Sky Club overcrowding within the next 18-24 months. There was a lot more packed into this earnigns call than...
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Memphis International Airport to Change Its Name
The board of commissioners of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority passed a resolution on Thursday, June 26, 2025 approving for Memphis International Airport to change its name. The new name for the airport will be... The post Memphis International Airport to Change Its Name appeared first on The Gate.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers