What O’Hare International Airport is
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a major gateway to Chicago and the world. It hosts millions of passengers annually and serves as a major hub for United and American Airlines (Chicago Department of Aviation; Time Out Chicago).
The airport supports tens of thousands of jobs and facilitates trade, conventions, and investment (Travel Asker; Chicago.gov). It also introduces travelers to Chicago’s cultural heritage through public art and rotating terminal exhibitions (Time Out Chicago).
History
O’Hare’s origins date to World War II, when the site operated as Douglas Airport, a military manufacturing facility producing transport aircraft. Its location near rail lines and open fields suited large-scale aviation operations (Travel Lemming).
After the war, the site was converted into a commercial airport to ease congestion at Midway. Passenger services began in 1955, followed by significant expansion with the arrival of jet aircraft in the late 1950s. By 1961, O’Hare was handling nearly 10 million passengers annually (From the Travel Desk).
O’Hare became a model for modern airport design, with underground fueling, direct highway and rail access, and innovative passenger concourses. During the 1980s and 1990s, United Airlines and American Airlines established major hubs there, and Terminal 5 opened for international flights (Travel Lemming). Today, its four terminals and eight runways connect travelers to over 265 destinations worldwide (Time Out Chicago; Chicago Department of Aviation).
What to see and do
O’Hare’s terminals feature public art and rotating exhibitions, along with expanded dining and shopping that includes local favorites (Time Out Chicago; Travel Awaits). Other amenities include the Butch O’Hare Family Lounge, yoga rooms and spas, and an airport apiary (Time Out Chicago; Travel Awaits).
Clear terminal signage and digital wayfinding help passengers navigate the airport (Explore.com). The neon-lit tunnel between Concourses B and C in Terminal 1 is another feature to see (Family Boarding Pass).
Butch O’Hare Monument
Near Terminal 2, in the airport’s public area, the Butch O’Hare Monument honors Edward “Butch” O’Hare, a Medal of Honor recipient and the U.S. Navy’s first World War II flying ace. It commemorates his heroism in 1942 and reflects the city’s aviation heritage.
The monument is accessible year-round, with daytime suggested as the best time to visit. Admission is free, no tickets are required, and the monument is wheelchair accessible, with assistance services available. The Airport Transit System (ATS) connects all terminals; the CTA Blue Line also serves the airport. Allow extra time for security procedures if entering beyond public areas.
Further information: Official Chicago O’Hare International Airport website and History of Edward "Butch" O’Hare.
O’Hare 21 modernization
Chicago’s $8.5 billion O’Hare 21 Terminal Area Plan is intended to transform the airport into a state-of-the-art global hub (Construction Review Online). Plans include a new O’Hare Global Terminal to replace Terminal 2, designed by Studio Gang (Urbanize Chicago); two new satellite concourses to increase gate capacity; and a connecting tunnel and people mover for terminal transfers (Chicago YIMBY).
Construction priorities are Satellite Concourse 1 by 2028, the Global Terminal by 2032, and Satellite Concourse 2 by 2034. The plan aims to enhance customs and immigration processing and support airline partnerships (Chicago YIMBY). Other ongoing improvements include automated security and customs (Choose Chicago).
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
O’Hare is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Individual services, including ticket counters, lounges, and shops, typically operate from early morning to late evening; check with your airline or the airport’s official website for specific hours.
Flight tickets can be purchased through airline websites, travel agencies, or airport ticket counters. Most airlines offer online and mobile check-in, and self-service kiosks are widely available. Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.
Transportation
- Public transit The CTA Blue Line connects downtown Chicago with O’Hare 24/7, with frequent departures. It is the most economical way to reach the airport.
- Car and rideshare O’Hare is accessible via I-90 and I-190. Parking options include economy lots, garages, and valet services. Uber and Lyft pickups are available at designated zones.
- Shuttles Shuttle buses connect O’Hare with nearby hotels and parking facilities. Confirm availability and schedules with your accommodation.
The Airport Transit System (ATS) connects all terminals.
Accessibility and special services
O’Hare has wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, elevators, and trained staff throughout its terminals (Choose Chicago). Travelers who need special accommodations should contact their airline or the airport in advance.
Tips
- Check hours for your airline and airport services.
- Allow time for check-in and security: at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.
- Use public transportation for convenience.
- For updates and tips, download the Audiala app and follow official channels (Audiala; Choose Chicago).
Nearby places
Chicago attractions
The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Chicago History Museum are accessible from O’Hare by public transit. Millennium Park and Navy Pier are also mentioned as nearby attractions to the Chicago Water Tower.
Chicago Water Tower
At 806 N. Michigan Avenue, the Chicago Water Tower survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and is an architectural symbol of the city’s resilience. Built in 1869 in Gothic Revival style by William W. Boyington, it is one of the oldest water towers in the U.S. and now houses a small gallery and cultural events.
- Hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and major holidays.
- Admission Free.
- Guided tours Seasonal, available via the Chicago Architecture Foundation.
- Accessibility Fully accessible; multilingual resources are available.
- Getting there The closest CTA Red Line stop is Chicago station. Multiple bus routes serve Michigan Avenue. Nearby garages are available, with limited street parking.
- Tip Visit early or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Further information: Chicago Water Tower Official Site and Chicago Architecture Foundation.
Hotels
On-site hotel options include the Hilton O’Hare and Hyatt Regency O’Hare. Hotels in nearby Rosemont and other areas also offer airport shuttle services.
FAQ
What are O’Hare’s visiting hours?
The airport is open 24/7, but individual services have their own hours.
How do I buy tickets and check in?
Flight tickets are available through airline websites, airport counters, and travel agencies. Most airlines offer online and mobile check-in, and self-service kiosks are widely available. Arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
Is O’Hare accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Yes. Wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities are available throughout the terminals.
How do I get to downtown Chicago?
Options include the CTA Blue Line, rideshares, shuttles, taxis, and car rentals.
Are there dining and shopping options?
Yes. Each terminal has restaurants and shops.
