O’Hare vs. Midway: A Frequent Flyer’s Showdown

by Sky Skylar | February 24, 2025 | 0 Comments

I’ve always found Chicago to be a vibrant aviation hub featuring two main airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Each offers a unique experience, especially for those of us who prioritize convenience, cost savings, or global connections when booking flights.

Size and Flight Volume

1. Size and Flight Volume

From everything I’ve gathered, O’Hare is one of the world’s busiest airports, serving around 73.9 million passengers in 2023. With eight runways, multiple terminals, and over 200 gates, it supports more than 2,400 daily flights. By contrast, Midway, handling about 22 million passengers annually, offers a more compact experience but still provides ample routes—especially on Southwest Airlines.

In my own reading, I’ve seen that O’Hare’s massive scale means you can connect to virtually any corner of the globe. Airline alliances often channel their major route connections through O’Hare, making it an essential gateway whether you’re heading to the U.S. coasts or venturing across the Atlantic or Pacific. A recent report from the Chicago Department of Aviation highlights that O’Hare’s passenger traffic is expected to climb even further by 2025, driven by the rebound in international travel.

Midway, however, holds a special appeal for travelers who appreciate shorter lines and fewer crowds. It’s something of a hidden gem: while undeniably smaller, the flight volume is still robust enough to offer frequent service to popular domestic destinations. In fact, many business travelers I’ve spoken with say Midway is perfect for quick in-and-out trips because of its more manageable layout and concentrated terminal design.

Location and Ground Transportation

2. Location and Ground Transportation

I’ve observed that O’Hare sits roughly 17 to 18 miles from downtown Chicago, which often leads to a longer commute—especially during peak traffic hours. However, the CTA Blue Line offers a direct connection to the city center, making public transit a dependable alternative to sitting in congestion. Meanwhile, Midway, located about 10 to 12.5 miles from downtown, has the CTA Orange Line, which provides a swift journey for those looking for an efficient hop into the heart of the city. Both airports also feature rideshare, taxi, and private transfer services, giving you plenty of options to reach your final destination.

In my experience, if your main priority is saving time on the road, Midway usually edges out O’Hare. According to a 2024 traffic analysis by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, the average commute into downtown from Midway can be up to 15 minutes shorter than from O’Hare, depending on rush hour conditions. That difference can be a game-changer if you’re in a hurry or have a tight schedule.

I also find it valuable to consider local public transportation networks. The CTA system connecting both airports to downtown eliminates parking hassles and provides more predictable arrival times. For example, I’ve known travelers who check real-time train schedules via smartphone apps and plan their entire airport commute around that. It’s a great way to sidestep unexpected road traffic or weather-related delays.

Terminals and Amenities

3. Terminals and Amenities

When I read about O’Hare’s multiple terminals, I’m always amazed at the range of amenities, from high-end restaurants to business lounges for airlines like United and American. Terminal 5 stands out for international flights, though it’s not directly connected to the others—something to keep in mind if you’re planning tight connections. Midway’s single terminal is more straightforward, which can be a relief for families juggling kids or for travelers who simply prefer a more compact layout. Even though Midway has fewer airline lounges, it often compensates with shorter security lines and minimal walking distances.

I’ve noticed that O’Hare’s amenities continue to expand, with recent improvements aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. A lot of frequent flyers I’ve connected with rave about the diversity of dining options, from grab-and-go eateries to full-service restaurants featuring local Chicago cuisine. There’s also an abundance of retail shops, so if you forgot a souvenir or need a last-minute tech accessory, O’Hare’s got you covered.

At Midway, the charm lies in how quickly you can move from curb to gate. While you won’t find as broad a selection of stores or lounges, the essence of this airport is efficiency. I’ve read that Midway is planning to modernize its terminal facilities by 2026, aiming to streamline security checkpoints even further. If you’re like me and value speed over extensive amenities, Midway might be your ideal choice for domestic travel.

I also think about how lounge access can shape a travel day. If you’re loyal to a specific airline with a lounge at O’Hare, you may enjoy a more relaxing pre-flight experience there. At Midway, lounge options are more limited, so frequent flyers might miss that perk. Ultimately, it’s a trade-off: broader amenities versus a simpler, more streamlined atmosphere.

International vs. Domestic Focus

4. International vs. Domestic Focus

In my reading, O’Hare emerges as a critical international gateway, served by major carriers like United, American, and Delta with routes that span the globe. That extensive network can be a game-changer for frequent flyers, providing numerous scheduling options should a flight need rebooking. Midway, on the other hand, is primarily a domestic airport, best known as a hub for Southwest Airlines. It’s an excellent choice for those more budget-minded or who simply prefer heading to U.S. destinations without the hustle and bustle of a large international terminal.

I’ve also seen data from the U.S. Department of Transportation indicating that O’Hare regularly ranks among the top five U.S. airports for both passenger volume and international connectivity. If you have a global itinerary, you’ll likely find that O’Hare provides more flexibility in terms of flight times and alliances. Personally, I appreciate that advantage when I’m searching for multi-leg trips that might involve several international carriers.

Meanwhile, Midway is perfect if your travel plans revolve around domestic vacations, family visits, or short business hops. There’s a notable emphasis on Southwest’s popular routes, which often feature competitive fares and customer-friendly policies. Some travelers have told me they prefer Midway for its laid-back vibe when traveling regionally, as it’s less overwhelming than the sprawling terminals of O’Hare.

I should also mention that while Midway does handle some international flights to nearby destinations—mainly seasonal or to Caribbean points—its scope is comparatively narrow. If you’ve got your eyes set on a global tour, O’Hare’s roster of long-haul carriers will likely tip the scales in its favor.

Which Airport Fits Your Style?

5. Which Airport Fits Your Style?

From my perspective, if you’re a frequent flyer valuing extensive airline choices, international connectivity, and business amenities, O’Hare is tough to beat. However, if you crave a smaller, more navigable airport coupled with closer proximity to downtown Chicago, Midway might suit you better. Ultimately, it’s all about your itinerary, preferred airlines, and the travel experience you most want to cultivate.

I’ve read plenty of debates regarding flight delays at each airport, and it often depends on weather and peak travel periods. O’Hare, given its sheer size, can sometimes experience more congestion-related slowdowns, especially on windy or snowy days—no surprise given Chicago’s unpredictable weather. Midway, being smaller, may offer a smoother experience, though it can still face delays when winter storms hit.

If you’re traveling with family or in a group, I find it helpful to weigh the layout. O’Hare, with multiple terminals, can mean longer walks, but also more dining and shopping choices. Midway’s single-terminal design is usually straightforward, making it simpler to keep everyone together and focused on the gate. As for business trips, O’Hare’s broader lounge offerings and bigger flight schedules may be more attractive, especially if you venture around the globe.

I always encourage fellow travelers to consider both cost and time. Sometimes, a cheaper fare out of Midway can be offset by the distance to your final destination if you’re staying north of downtown. Alternatively, a direct international flight from O’Hare might be worth the additional commute if it shaves hours off your overall journey. Like most things in travel, a little research pays off.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

After going through the pros and cons, I believe both O’Hare and Midway have distinct strengths that cater to different types of travelers. O’Hare shines for those seeking comprehensive global connections, a wider variety of amenities, and the prestige of a major international hub. Midway thrives on user-friendly simplicity, often making it a favorite for domestic flyers who prioritize convenience and shorter commutes.

In the end, analyzing your unique travel needs—location, airline preference, budget, and schedule—remains the key to deciding which Chicago airport best serves your journey. Whether you select O’Hare or Midway, it’s clear that Chicago stands out as a central aviation gateway for both American and international adventures.

Sky Skylar’s Take

In my own explorations, I’ve discovered that each traveler’s definition of a perfect airport can vary widely. Some folks want to breeze through a smaller terminal without too many frills, while others can’t imagine forgoing the expansive lounge networks and dining options found at bigger airports. I personally see value in both approaches, depending on the purpose of the trip.

Whether you’re a budget-savvy explorer or an international wanderer seeking premium offerings, the choice between O’Hare and Midway really boils down to what makes you feel most at ease. Both airports bring their own flavor to the travel experience, and that’s what makes Chicago such an exciting launch pad for all kinds of journeys.

For more travel insights and the latest industry updates, stay with us at BoardingArea.

Also on BoardingArea
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
Maintenance Issues Could Be Cause Of Dramatic Engine Fire On American Airlines Boeing 737, NTSB Report Reveals
Potential maintenance issues could have been the root cause of a serious incident onboard an American Airlines Boeing 737 at Denver International Airport in March, which saw dozens of passengers trapped on the wings of the plane as smoke swirled around them. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has just...
Miles To Memories
New Bonuses for American Express Delta Cards, Earn Up to 110,000 Miles
American Express and Delta Airlines have launched new limited time welcome offers on all six consumer and business credit cards, with bonuses varying from 80,000 to 110,000 SkyMiles. The post New Bonuses for American Express Delta Cards, Earn Up to 110,000 Miles appeared first on Miles to Memories.
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Earn 500 Bonus SkyMiles by Shopping for Summer
Effective through Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 11:59:59 in the evening Eastern Daylight Time, you can earn 500 bonus SkyMiles by shopping for summer — in addition to the standard SkyMiles earned — during the Father’s Day Bonus Offer campaign at the Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Shopping portal by spending a...
Frequent Flyer Bonuses
Hawaiian Airlines Exclusive Travel Offer – Use this promo code to save an extra 7% on flights
Hawaiian Airlines has a new Exclusive Travel Offer that is available through their affiliate partners like us! The 7% discount offer: Here are the details of this travel offer: Use discount code HAWAIIAN7 to take 7% off your flights to/from Hawaii and the Continental U.S. Valid on select Main Cabin...
Economondo
A Scottish Saab 340 Adventure: Inverness to Glasgow via Stornoway – a Loganair Review
Come with me as I fly on Loganair's now retired Saab 340 on an indirect route from Inverness to Glasgow
ATX Jetsetter
Le Meridien Maldives Attempts to Trick Guests into Cancelling Reservations
The Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa appears to be trying to trick guests into inadvertently cancelling their bookings. The post Le Meridien Maldives Attempts to Trick Guests into Cancelling Reservations appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
View from the Wing
‘They Washed The Forks In Toilet Water’—Hotel Owner Arrested After Bathroom Video Surfaces
The two were charged with "serving contaminated food and hurting people's religious sentiments" the latter being a 'very Indian' charge. Continue reading ‘They Washed The Forks In Toilet Water’—Hotel Owner Arrested After Bathroom Video Surfaces...
Your Mileage May Vary
United’s JFK Exit Was a Mistake—Now It’s Teaming Up With JetBlue to Fix It
United Airlines has had a complicated relationship with New York’s JFK Airport. After years away, the airline is poised to return—but not alone. With the newly announced “Blue Sky” partnership…
One Mile at a Time
Cool: SWISS Debuts “Alpine Essence” Signature Cocktail
It’s always fun when airlines introduce signature drinks, so I think we have to give a shoutout to SWISS, for its newest offering…
Will Run For Miles
Peloton and Hyatt Broaden Collaboration to Include Latin American and Carribean Hotels and Offer Members 500 Bonus Points for Qualifying Pelo Workouts!
Peloton and Hyatt further collaborate to offer Peloton equipment at more hotels in more regions and to offer 500 bonus points per qualifying workout for most of the summer. The post Peloton and Hyatt Broaden Collaboration to Include Latin American and Carribean Hotels and Offer Members 500 Bonus Points for Qualifying...
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
‘I Want to Get Off!’: Woman Tries to Open Southwest Airplane Door at 32,000 Feet in Wild Midair Meltdown
A federal Grand Duty has indicted a 30-year-old woman with interference with flight attendants after she allegedly tried to repeatedly open the emergency exit of a Southwest Airlines airplane, which was midair and flying at an altitude of 32,000 feet at the time. If found guilty, Jendaya Kashar Brennan from...
Miles To Memories
Earn 500 Hyatt Points with Every Peloton Workout
World of Hyatt and Peloton have launched a new promotion where members can earn more bonus points for working out. The post Earn 500 Hyatt Points with Every Peloton Workout appeared first on Miles to Memories.
Hawaii Calling
New Hotel Tax Hike Followed by $6M Emergency Campaign to Revive Maui Tourism
Push for luxury tourism, raise the hotel tax, then roll out discounts to attract visitors, good lord. Hawai‘i’s tourism leaders have launched a $6 million emergency marketing campaign to help stabilize Maui’s visitor economy—just weeks after a new hotel tax hike was approved. The timing has me scratching my head....
View from the Wing
Hyatt’s Business Card Offer Comes With Mid-Tier Elite Status And 60,000 Points—But Globalist Chasers Will Want It For A Bigger Reason
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card has an bonus offer of 60,000 Bonus Points plus Explorist status through February 28, 2026 after you spend $7,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. This offer ends June 30, 2025. Continue reading Hyatt’s Business Card Offer Comes With Mid-Tier...
The Travel Sisters
The Best Things to Do in Chicago This Summer (From Locals!)
The best things to do in Chicago in the summer The post The Best Things to Do in Chicago This Summer (From Locals!) appeared first on The Travel Sisters.
Wingtips
Waterloo Welcomes IHG’s New voco and Indigo & Suites Duo
IHG is bringing not one but two new hotels to central London, and they’re stacking them side by… The post Waterloo Welcomes IHG’s New voco and Indigo & Suites Duo appeared first on Wingtips.
Frequent Flyer Bonuses
June 5 Bonus Offer Highlight: Miles & More – Earn up to 7,500 miles when renting with Sixt
Today's bonus offer highlight is yet another good car rental bonus offer from Miles & More and Sixt who are offering up to 7,500 miles on premium car rentals. Check out all of the new bonuses added today: The post June 5 Bonus Offer Highlight: Miles & More – Earn up...
Miles To Memories
Chase Offers 20% Transfer Bonuses for Aeroplan
Chase announced this month a promotion, offering 20% more points when transferring Ultimate Rewards to Aeroplan. The post Chase Offers 20% Transfer Bonuses for Aeroplan appeared first on Miles to Memories.
ATX Jetsetter
SWISS Premiers Its Own Signature Cocktail
SWISS has introduced its own signature cocktail, SWISS Alpine Essence, which will be served onboard in select cabins. The post SWISS Premiers Its Own Signature Cocktail appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
Live and Let’s Fly
Trump Announces New Travel Ban Targeting 19 Nations (Full List)
US President Donald Trump has introduced new travel restrictions that include a full travel ban impacting 12 countries and a partial ban on seven more. President Trump Announces New Travel Ban Affecting 19 Countries (Full List) On June 5, 2025, President Trump announced a sweeping new travel ban that will...
Points With a Crew
Capital One announces DEVASTATING changes to the Venture X card
Capital One has just announced a change to the Venture X credit card that is a huge gut punch for many, including my family. Now, when traveling, you will need to ..
Monkey Miles
All new American Express Delta credit card offers – up to 110k
American Express has new, limited time offers on their Delta cobranded credit cards. Some are the highest welcome offers we've ever seen! The post All new American Express Delta credit card offers – up to 110k appeared first on Monkey Miles.
Your Mileage May Vary
Overcurious Delta Passenger Quickly Learns What NOT to Ask Flight Attendants
It’s said you should never talk about religion or politics in mixed company. But there are other things you probably should (emphasis on the word “should”) avoid discussing with people,…
Monkey Miles
5 night offer back! New Marriott Credit Card Offers
We break down the latest credit offers for Marriott branded Chase and Amex credit cards The post 5 night offer back! New Marriott Credit Card Offers appeared first on Monkey Miles.

Leave a Reply

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

Categories

Our Bloggers