Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) offers a wide range of transportation options to suit passengers’ budgets and preferences. Travelers can easily reach downtown Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and even neighboring states by taxi, airport shuttles, rental cars, and public and private transportation services. Moreover, public transportation options such as the CTA Blue Line, Metra commuter rail, and Pace Bus services offer cost-effective connections not only to the city but also to the neighboring suburban areas. Are you interested in learning more about the transportation options at ORD Airport? Continue browsing the guidebook till the end.
A Detailed List of Transportation Options Available at Chicago O’Hare Airport
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), located approximately 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, serves millions of travelers each year. There are several commuting options from the airport to suit travelers’ needs and budgets. Below is a list of the transportation alternatives available at O’Hare Airport:
| Transportation Option | Description | Pickup / Location |
| Taxi | Taxis are licensed and metered to serve Chicago and its suburbs. The average taxi fare to downtown is around $50, depending on traffic. | Outside Baggage Claim, lower-level curb at each terminal |
| Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) | App, based transportation with designated color-coded pickup zones. Black Car service option available. | Outside, north of vestibule 2A, is BLACK Zone A. Vestibule 2A outside of BLUE Zone B Zone C: Orange, outside vestibule 2B Vestibule 2E outside of GREEN Zone D |
| CTA Blue Line (Train) | The cheapest choice. The train provides 24-hour service to downtown and the suburbs. | Lower level of the parking garage |
| Car Rentals | Rental companies are Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and National. Perfect for getting around Chicago and the suburbs. Early booking can bring down the price. | Rental Car Facility, reachable by free 24/7 shuttle from all terminals |
| Metra Rail | Commuter rail service to suburbs and downtown via North Central Service. | O’Hare Transfer Station, Zemke & Mannheim Roads |
| Pace Bus | Suburban bus service connecting O’Hare to the surrounding areas. | Bus Bays #8 & #9, Multi-Modal Facility (via ATS) |
| Hotel Shuttles | Free shuttle service is provided by many nearby hotels, usually every 15–30 minutes. Terminal 2 Arrivals curbside (some also at | Terminal 2 Arrivals curbside (some also at Terminal 5) |
| Private Car & Limousine | Pre-arranged luxury transportation for business or comfort-focused travelers. | Lower level of each terminal, opposite Door C |
| Shared Ride Shuttle | Budget-friendly shared transportation to downtown and suburbs (e.g., GO Airport Express). | Terminal 2 Arrivals curbside |
| Parking & Park-and-Ride | Short-term, economy, and long-term parking with free shuttles to terminals. | Near terminals and economy lots |
| Helicopter Transfers | Fast, luxury transfers from downtown Chicago to O’Hare, avoiding traffic. | Off-airport helipads |
| Airport Transit System (ATS) | Automated people mover running every 3–5 minutes, connecting terminals and facilities. | Serves Terminals 1, 2, 3, 5, and Multi-Modal Facility |
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) offers a wide range of transportation options to suit different travelers. Whether you are looking for a low-cost option like the CTA Blue Line, a convenient choice such as taxis or ride-sharing services, or a more comfortable experience with private cars and limousines, O’Hare has everything to meet your preferences. With 24/7 availability, travelers can conveniently schedule arrivals and departures at any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several shuttles and regional buses serve O’Hare International Airport, making it easy for passengers throughout the region to travel to and from the airport.
O’Hare International Airport is easily accessible via several kinds of public transportation. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the most cost-effective option. However, passengers can also use Metra and Pace Bus services.
A taxi from O’Hare Airport to Chicago Downtown costs between $40 and $50, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
There are various car rental options available at O’Hare Airport. Every rental vehicle company offers a free, 24-hour shuttle service to passengers.
Yes, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) provides free, 24-hour transportation between all terminals, parking lots, and the Multi-Modal Facility via the Airport Transit System.
