If you have a flight into or out of “the Windy City,” you are likely heading to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Known as one of the busiest aviation hubs on the planet, O’Hare is a massive labyrinth of runways and terminals.

Finding where it is located is the easy part; the real “problem-solving” begins when you try to navigate its four terminals and get to your final destination without getting stuck in a three-mile backup on the Kennedy Expressway.

The Exact Location: Pinning Down ORD

O’Hare is located on the far northwest side of Chicago, about 18 miles (29 km) from the downtown area (often called “The Loop”).

• Address: 10000 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60666.
• The Geographic “Island”: Interestingly, the airport is connected to the city of Chicago by a narrow strip of land along Foster Avenue. It is bordered by the suburbs of Rosemont, Des Plaines, and Schiller Park.

Problem-Solving: Getting In, Out, and Around ORD

O’Hare is famous for delays and distance. Here is how you solve the most common challenges travelers face when visiting this giant.

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1. The Terminal 5 Confusion

One of the most common mistakes travelers make at O’Hare is going to the wrong terminal.

• The Layout: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are all connected in a “U” shape and are walkable behind security.
• The Problem: Terminal 5 (the International Terminal) is physically separated from the others by several miles of runway.
• The Solution: Use the ATS (Airport Transit System). This is a free, automated “people mover” train that runs 24/7. If you land at Terminal 5 and need to catch a domestic flight at Terminal 1, do not look for a walkway. Head straight for the ATS station.

2. Avoiding the $70 Taxi Bill: The “L” Train

Chicago traffic is legendary for being some of the worst in the United States. A taxi from O’Hare to downtown can take anywhere from 40 minutes to 2 hours depending on the time of day.

• The Solution: Follow the signs for “Trains to City.” O’Hare is the terminus for the CTA Blue Line. For just $5.00, you can hop on a train that will take you directly into the heart of downtown Chicago in about 45 minutes, regardless of how bad the traffic is on the highway above you.

3. The “Where Do I Get Picked Up?” Dilemma

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have specific rules at O’Hare that catch people off guard.

• The Solution: You cannot be picked up at the standard baggage claim curb. You must follow the signs for “Rideshare Pickup.” * Terminals 1, 2, & 3: The pickup zone is on the Upper Level (Departures) between Terminal 1 and 2.
  • Terminal 5: Pickup is at Door 5SC on the lower level.

The O’Hare Layout: At a Glance

Terminal	Primary Airlines	Atmosphere
Terminal 1	United, Lufthansa	Features the famous neon “sky’s the limit” tunnel.
Terminal 2	Alaska, JetBlue, Southern	The “older” section; usually quieter security lines.
Terminal 3	American, Spirit, Iberia	Massive; home to some of the best airport food.
Terminal 5	All International & Delta	Newly renovated with high-end shops and dining.

Insider Hacks for a Better ORD Experience

• The “Secret” Security Line: If the security line at Terminal 1 is massive, you can often walk over to Terminal 2 or 3, pass through a shorter line, and then walk back to your gate airside (behind security).
• Tortas Frontera: If you are hungry, head to Terminal 1 or 3 for Rick Bayless’s “Tortas Frontera.” It is widely considered the best airport food in America.
• The Yoga Room: Need to de-stress? There is a free yoga room located in Terminal 3 (Rotunda area) with mats and a peaceful atmosphere.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)