Layover in Chicago: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Welcome to Chicago, a city known for its amazing buildings, lively culture, and delicious deep-dish pizza! It’s also a major place for air travel. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is the biggest airport in Illinois and one of the busiest in the world. Millions of people pass through it every year, going to many different places.

This guide will help you make the most of your Chicago airport layover. Whether you have a few hours or a whole day, we’ll tell you what you need to know for a smooth and fun time. We’ll cover visa rules, airport services, and even how to visit the city.

If you need to store your bags and explore freely, Qeepl offers easy luggage storage near the airports.

Chicago Transit Visa Requirements

When planning a trip through the U.S., including Chicago, you might wonder if you need a transit visa. It’s important to check this well before you travel. The rules depend on your home country. The best place to find out for sure is the official U.S. Department of State website.

On the State Department’s website, you’ll find details about transit visas. Look for information on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). If your country is part of the VWP and you’re visiting for tourism or business for 90 days or less, you might not need a visa. You’ll likely need an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). However, always confirm your country’s status and any new rules on the State Department’s website. For example, people from many European countries, Australia, Japan, and South Korea can often use the VWP. Others might need a B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism) visa, or a special transit visa (C visa), depending on your layover and if you plan to leave the airport’s international area.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Chicago Layover?

If your layover is short, usually less than 6-8 hours, it’s often best to stay at the airport. This helps you avoid stress from travel delays and security lines. This time is enough to get around the airport, eat, and shop without feeling rushed.

Even with a shorter layover, Chicago’s airports have many things to keep you busy and comfortable. Here are the best things to do to make your Chicago airport layover enjoyable.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Chicago is famous for its food, and its airports have many great places to eat. For real Chicago flavor, try Billy Goat Tavern at O’Hare, known for its “cheezborger.” For something fancier, Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless offers tasty Mexican food, also at O’Hare. For a quick bite, Gale Gand’s Bakery has delicious pastries and coffee. Midway Airport also has good options, like Wicker Park Seafood and Sushi Bar for fresh seafood and sushi, and Billy Goat Tavern again for that classic Chicago taste.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

If you want to walk around and shop, Chicago’s airports have plenty of stores. O’Hare has many shops, from luxury brands at Hudson News, Brookstone, and DFS Duty Free (for international travelers) to unique places like The Great Art, which sells local art and souvenirs. If you like books, Books-A-Million is a good choice. Midway Airport also has a good selection of stores, including popular brands and gift shops for last-minute items.

Lounges and Nap Zones

For a quieter and more comfortable experience, airport lounges are a great choice. Many airlines have their own lounges for premium passengers or members. You can also get day passes for independent lounges like The Air Berlin Business Lounge (check if it’s still available, as airlines and lounges can change) at O’Hare. These lounges offer comfy seats, Wi-Fi, free food and drinks, and sometimes showers. For a quick nap, look for “quiet zones” or comfortable seating areas in the terminals. Some spots are made for relaxing, giving you a break from the airport crowds.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Chicago’s airports have many facilities and services for travelers. You’ll find plenty of places to charge your devices, free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, and ATMs. Families with children can find play areas. Art lovers can see many art displays and exhibits at O’Hare, showing local and international talent. Medical services are also available if you have health concerns. Staying connected is easy with the available Wi-Fi, so you can work, talk to family, or just browse the internet.

How to Spend Long Layover in Chicago?

If your layover is longer than a few hours, and you have the right visa, exploring Chicago can be a great experience. The city has many attractions that are easy to reach from both O’Hare and Midway airports using public transport. This can turn a long wait into an exciting city adventure.

8-Hour Layover in Chicago

With an 8-hour layover, you have enough time to get a feel for Chicago. Try to leave the airport about 2-3 hours after you arrive and plan to be back at least 2-3 hours before you leave. This gives you about 3-4 hours to explore. You could visit Millennium Park to see the famous “The Bean” (Cloud Gate) and the Crown Fountain. Or, you could eat classic Chicago deep-dish pizza at a downtown restaurant. The CTA Blue Line train from O’Hare goes directly to the city center, making it a convenient option.

12-Hour Layover in Chicago

A 12-hour layover gives you more freedom to explore. Allow about 2-3 hours for travel to and from the airport and security checks, leaving you 7-8 hours to enjoy the city. You could visit the Art Institute of Chicago, walk along the Magnificent Mile for shopping and see the city’s amazing buildings, or take a short boat tour on the Chicago River. The CTA Blue Line from O’Hare or the Orange Line from Midway are still the best ways to travel.

24-Hour Layover in Chicago

With a 24-hour layover, you can really experience Chicago. After accounting for travel time to and from the airport, you’ll have plenty of time to see several attractions. Consider visiting the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) for amazing views from the Skydeck, exploring the exhibits at the Field Museum or the Shedd Aquarium, or watching a baseball game if it’s the right season. This longer time also lets you relax more and enjoy Chicago’s famous food. You might even think about staying overnight to make the most of your time.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Chicago?

An overnight layover in Chicago is a great chance to see the city at night or spend a full day exploring. The key is to plan your stay and activities well. Here are your best options for managing an overnight Chicago airport layover:

• On-Airport Hotels: For the most convenience, there are hotels right at or very close to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. These hotels are easy to get to from the terminals, and many offer free shuttle services.

  • Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport: Located directly connected to Terminal 2 by a walkway. Price: around $150 - $300 per night.

  • Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago: Across from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and a short shuttle ride from the airport. Price: around $130 - $250 per night.

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago O’Hare Rosemont: Offers large suites and free breakfast, a short shuttle ride away. Price: around $140 - $260 per night.

• Airport Area Hotels (Short Shuttle Ride): Many hotels in the nearby Rosemont area have good prices and regular shuttle services to both O’Hare and Midway airports. These can be a more affordable choice.

  • The Westin O’Hare: Located in Rosemont, a short shuttle ride from O’Hare, with comfortable rooms and amenities. Price: around $120 - $220 per night.

  • Holiday Inn Chicago O’Hare Area: A reliable option in Rosemont with good amenities and shuttle service. Price: around $100 - $180 per night.

  • Aloft Chicago O’Hare: A modern and stylish hotel in Rosemont, known for its lively atmosphere. Price: around $110 - $200 per night.

• Downtown Chicago Hotels (Requires Transit Planning): If you want to experience the city, staying downtown is an option. However, consider the cost and time of traveling on the CTA Blue Line from O’Hare or the Orange Line from Midway. This is best if you have a very late arrival and early departure, or if you want to see as much of the city as possible.

  • Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel: A historic hotel in the heart of downtown, offering a classic Chicago experience. Price: around $160 - $300 per night.

  • Thompson Chicago: Located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, offering stylish rooms and easy access to attractions. Price: around $200 - $350 per night.

  • The Langham, Chicago: A luxury option with beautiful river views, in a prime downtown location. Price: around $300 - $500+ per night.

  When choosing where to stay overnight, think about what’s most important to you: being close to the airport for early flights, or staying downtown to experience the city. No matter your choice, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially during busy travel times.