Best Time to Visit

Contrary to what its nickname "Windy City" implies, the winds aren't too much of a concern, and the nickname itself ties in with Chicago's political history more than its climate. The best times to visit are around the Christmas season (for the festive lights and holiday atmosphere), or, if higher temperatures are what you prefer, any time from late spring (April) to early fall.

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa (as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino). Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the country.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Midway Airport is 6.5 miles (10 km) southwest of the city center. The Orange Line train takes passengers to and from Midway airport and downtown Chicago and also runs 24 hours. Chicago Midway Airport is a domestic airport located on the southwest side of Chicago. It is the second-largest airport in the Chicago metropolitan area, after O'Hare. The Orange Line train provides direct service between Midway Airport and downtown Chicago. The train station is located right outside of the airport terminal and offers a convenient and affordable way to get to the city. Various taxi and ride-sharing services are available at Midway Airport. You can find them at designated areas outside of the terminal. If you prefer to drive, Midway Airport offers a variety of rental car options. There are also several bus services that operate to and from Midway Airport, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus system and the airport shuttle service. You can find out more about transportation options at the information booth on the bag claim level near Door 3 LL.

• Web:

  www.flychicago.com/midway

• Address:

  South Cicero Avenue, Chicago

• Phone:

  +1 773-838-0600

Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

The Chicago O’Hare International Airport is the main airport serving Chicago. O’Hare is approximately 18 miles (30 km) northwest of the city center. You can take the new Airport Transit System (ATS) to navigate between Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) for rental cars, Economy Parking Lot F, Kiss ‘n’ Fly, Pace buses and Metra. The Blue Line train takes passengers to and from O’Hare and downtown Chicago and runs 24 hours a day. Taxis take about 20-30 minutes to get to the city center.

• Web:

  www.flychicago.com/ohare

• Address:

  10000 West Balmoral Avenue, Chicago

• Phone:

  +1 800 832 6352

Public Transport

Chicago has an excellent system of trains, buses and a commuter rail. Pay in cash on the bus and in exact change. Transit cards may be purchased at selected outlets, which eliminates the hassle of needing exact change. You may also call and get exact directions on public transport to and from any destination in the city. RTA Travel Information service is available seven days a week, including holidays, from 4:45am to 1 am for travel information on CTA, PACE and Metra.

• Web:

  www.transitchicago.com

• Phone:

  +1 312 836 7000

Taxi

Traditional taxis are widely available throughout the city, and they can be hailed on the street or booked through a dispatch service. It is very easy to find a taxi downtown or near the Miracle Mile. There is no extra charge for baggage or credit card use, and tipping is optional. Credit cards are accepted in all taxis. Alternatively, you can hail a cab and pay using CHICABS-approved apps ARRO and CURB.

• Web:

  www.choosechicago.com/plan-your-trip/getting-around