Chicago O’Hare International Airport [ORD] – Ultimate Terminal Guide

BY 

Amar Hussain

- UPDATED: March 20, 2020

1. Travel Guides & Resources  / 
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Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) was the busiest U.S. airport in 2018 in terms of aircraft movements, serving over 900,000 flights. It’s a major airport for connections all over the U.S., operating as the main hub for United Airlines and the third-largest hub for American Airlines.

Flight connections are easy between the 3 domestic terminals, all connected by airside pedestrian walkways. However, Terminal 5 is a bit more of a journey for international flight connections.

That’s set to change in the future with a huge expansion project planned to commence in 2021. This will redevelop Terminal 2 to accommodate both domestic and international flights under the same roof.

In the meantime, here’s what you need to know to get around O’Hare.

Quick Information

Airport: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Terminals: 4 total, numbered Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5 (international terminal)

Airport Address: 10000 W O’Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666

Distance from Downtown Chicago: Approximately 20 miles (32 km)

Website: flychicago.com

Phone Number: (800) 832-6352

Number of Daily Flights: 2,400

Destinations Served: 60 international, 160 domestic

Flight Information: View departures and arrival information on the Chicago Department of Aviation website.

Airlines Operating From ORD

Airlines can operate from multiple terminals at O’Hare Airport, so it’s best to check your reservation or live departure information on the day of travel to be certain.

Terminal 1

Terminal 2

Terminal 3

Terminal 5

ORD Airport Terminals

The road system that runs inside ORD is a hexagonal shape, with Terminals 1, 2, and 3 situated along the outside of the bottom 3 sides, and the parking lots, Multi Modal Facility (car rental), and I-190 located in the top half.

Terminals 1-3 are referred to as the domestic terminals, and these 3 terminals are connected to each each via pedestrian walkways.

Terminal 5, the last terminal to be built, is located a short distance from the other terminals, connected by shuttle services and the Airport Transit System (ATS.) Although it is referred to as the international terminal, some international flights do depart from other terminals — but they only arrive into Terminal 5.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 (T1) consists of concourses B and C, with concourse B attached to the main terminal, and concourse C as a satellite terminal, connected by an underground pedestrian walkway.

Overall, the terminal has 54 gates, numbered B1-B12, B14, B16, B16A, B17, B17A, and B18-B24 in concourse B, and C1-C10, C10A, C11, C15, C16, C16A, C17, C18, C18A, C19-C23, and C25-C31 in concourse C.

Both concourses have shops and restaurants and a United Club Lounge. Concourse C also has a United Polaris Lounge, as T1 is the primary terminal for United Airlines for both domestic and international flights.

Hot Tip: Want to find other United Lounge locations? Check out the full list of U.S. United Club Lounges.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 has a total of 41 gates across 2 concourses. Concourse E has gates numbered E1-E17, and concourse F has gates numbered F1, F3-F7, F9-F12, F14-F17, and F19-F28.

The lower numbered gates are situated in the main terminal, with E gates on the right and F gates on the left, until the terminal forks into the individual concourses.

There are shops and restaurants across both concourses, a Delta Sky Club Lounge in concourse E, and a United Club Lounge in concourse F.

Hot Tip: Want to find other Delta Lounge locations? Check out the full list of U.S. Delta Sky Club Lounges.

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 is a large terminal, consisting of 4 concourses and 76 gates numbered as follows:

• Concourse G: G1A, G1B, G2A, G2B, G3-G5, G6B, G7-G14, G14A, G16-G19, G19A, G20, and G21
• Concourse H: H1-H6, H8-H10, H11A, H11B, H12, and H14-H18
• Concourse K: K1-K6, K8-K10, K12, K13, K15, K16, and K18-K20
• Concourse L: L1, L1B, L2A, L2C, L3-L5, L6A, L6B, L7-L9, L10A, L10B, L10C, L11, L11A, and L11B

If passing through the central security checkpoints, concourse G is to the far right, concourses H and K are down the main central walkway, with concourse H to the right where it forks and concourse K to the left. Concourse L is to the far left of the terminal.

Concourse G has an Admirals Club Lounge, and concourse H has an American Airlines Flagship Lounge.

Hot Tip: Are you an American Airlines flyer trying to find other Flagship Lounges? See the full list of U.S. AA Flagship Lounge locations. 

Terminal 5

Terminal 5 is ORD’s main international terminal, as it’s where the most international airline ticket desks are based. T5 also serves some domestic flights, and the other terminals serve some international flights.

In T5, flights depart from concourse M, where there are 21 gates numbered M1-M21. Passing through the security checkpoint, gates M12-M21 are to the left, M8-M11 are straight ahead, and gates M1-M7 are to the right.

Inter-Terminal Transport

Connecting between Terminals 1-3 and Terminal 5 is usually straightforward via the Airport Transit System (ATS) that runs between terminals. However, the ATS is currently closed for modernization, and replacement transfer buses are in place for passengers.

The ATS is due to re-open in early 2020 (no date disclosed) and will have double the passenger capacity. The train service is also being extende3d to connect passengers to the new Multi-Modal Facility for the car rental center and off-site parking.

Airside Transport Post-Security

Terminal Transfer Bus (TTB)

The terminal transfer bus transports domestic arrival passengers between Terminals 1-3 and Terminal 5 for connecting flights, without the need to re-clear security again on arrival at T5.

This service is for passengers who are not required to collect their luggage in between connections, and it’s not available for international passengers arriving into T5 with connections in Terminals 1-3.

Buses operate daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and depart from the following locations in Terminal 3:

• Gate G17
• Gate K20
• Gate L24

Walking

Terminals 1-3 are connected by airside walkways, which are useful for passengers arriving on a domestic flight and connecting to another domestic flight.

To walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, the walkway is located on the departures level, opposite Gates B5 and B6. The walkway arrives near gate E1 in Terminal 2.

To reach Terminal 3 from Terminal 2, the walkway is located near Gate F1 and arrives into the Rotunda of Terminal 3.

Walking time will depend entirely on which concourse and gate you’re walking to and from. The furthest points (Terminal 1, concourse C to Terminal 3, concourse L) are just over a mile apart from each other, so at an average speed, the maximum walking time would be around 20 minutes.

Landside Transport Pre-Security

Airport Transit System (ATS)

The ATS is a light rail service that stops at all terminals. It’s located outside of the secure area, so you do need to re-clear security again at your connecting terminal.

Each terminal has an ATS station located landside and is well signposted with “ATS” signs. Trains depart frequently and run in both directions, so you can choose the route that will get you to your connecting terminal quickest. 

Security and Customs at ORD

Each terminal at ORD has a different number of security checkpoints. Terminal 1 has 3 checkpoints, Terminal 2 has 1 checkpoint, Terminal 3 has 5 checkpoints, and Terminal 5 has 1 main checkpoint.

See below for each security checkpoint’s opening hours:

TSA PreCheck

ORD has dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at each terminal, except in T5. If you’re flying from T5, then you will be given a card that enables you to keep your shoes on when passing through the standard lanes. Dedicated PreCheck lines are available at the following checkpoints:

There is also a TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center located in Terminal 1 in the baggage claim area near door 1G. Opening hours are Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Once approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number that will enable you to use TSA PreCheck lanes at any U.S. airport.

Global Entry

Global Entry kiosks are located at ORD for expedited clearance of passengers arriving into the U.S. from international flights.

Once an application has been submitted, the applicant will need to arrange an interview at an enrollment center. ORD has an enrollment center located in Terminal 5, which is open from 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday – Friday.

Mobile Passport

ORD supports Mobile Passport Control for expedited U.S. arrival.

Submit your passport details and customs declaration to Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) via the app, and present your instant receipt and passport to an agent on arrival at ORD.

ORD Airport Lounges

ORD has 17 lounges, with many exclusively for passengers flying in premium cabins or eligible frequent flyer members. To relax away from the busy departure areas, any passenger can purchase a day pass to the Admirals Club, Swissport Lounge, or United Club Lounges.

*Hours are subject to change without notice. Lounge access may be restricted at times due to capacity.
**Day Pass for any passenger. Lounges marked as n/a only allow entry for eligible passengers in their premium cabins, frequent flyer programs, or participating credit card programs.

Hot Tip: Want lounge access, but don’t want to pay the entry fee? Check out this article on the best personal and business credit cards for complimentary lounge access.

Priority Pass Access

The following lounges accept Priority Pass entry, subject to capacity allowance:

• Air France/KLM Lounge
• Swissport Lounge

Hot Tip: Find out about membership in our dedicated Priority Pass article, as well as the best credit cards for getting into Priority Pass access.

Airport Dining and Drinks at ORD

ORD has over 130 restaurants, cafes, and food outlets, with the largest selection available inside the secure area.

If you want to plan where to eat before your flight, you can view available locations on the airport’s website and filter results by terminal, concourse, or gate number.

ORD Airport Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Free and unlimited Wi-Fi is is available at ORD, both outside and within the secure areas. To connect, follow these steps:

1. Select “_Free_ORD _Wi-Fi” or “Boingo Hotspot”
2. Launch your browser
3. Select “Watch Ad to Connect”

Charging Stations: There are charging stations located at:

• Terminal 1: Gates B4, B11, B12, B14, B19, C7, C15, C21, C28
• Terminal 2: Gates E8, F2
• Terminal 3: Gates G9, G19, H12, K9, K12, L10
• Terminal 5: Gates M3, M4, M5, M7, M13

Hot Tip: Not every airport has charging station, so don’t get caught with a dead battery. Check out this guide on the best portable charging banks so you’re always connected. 

ORD Airport Lost and Found

Who to contact for lost and found assistance depends on where you lost the item. If you lost something in the ticketing area, at the gate, or on an airplane, then you need to contact your airline.

For other areas, you can contact the relevant departments below:

• Airport Transit System: 773-601-1817
• Food Services: 773-377-7804
• Parking Lots: 773-686-7532
• Within the Terminals: 773-686-2385 (Chicago Police Department)
• Security Screening Areas: www.tsa.gov/form/lost-and-found
• Terminal 5 Customs: 773-686-3157

Additional Airport Information

Travelers Aid

There are Travelers Aid service desks in every terminal at ORD. The main office is located in Terminal 2, after security near the Children’s Museum.

A satellite office is in Terminal 5 near gate M19, and information desks are located at:

• Terminal 1: Gate B7 and C18
• Terminal 2: Gate F4
• Terminal 3: Gate K2
• Terminal 5: Ticketing, upper level and arrivals area, lower level

Children’s Play Areas

ORD has a Children’s Museum in Terminal 2 after security, and a smaller play area in Terminal 5 near gate M12. ORD actually ranks among the top 10 kid-friendly airports in the U.S based on our study.

Baby Facilities

Nursing rooms can be found opposite gate B10, between gates E5 and F9, in the Terminal 3 Rotunda, and near gate M14. Unisex family restrooms are available at:

• Terminal 1: Gates B4, B10, C20, and baggage claim
• Terminal 2: Opposite the Children’s Museum, E5, and baggage claim
• Terminal 3: Gates G11, H14, H3, K1, L5, in the Rotunda, and baggage claim
• Terminal 5: Near the security checkpoint and the food court

Pet Relief Areas

Each terminal has a pet relief area, but only Terminal 3 has a relief area inside the secure area. These can be found at:

• Terminal 1: Lower level, outside door 1A
• Terminal 2: Lower level, outside door 2E
• Terminal 3: In the Rotunda
• Terminal 5: Lower level, outside door 5B

Hot Tip: ORD leaves something to be desired when flying with your pet. Looking for airports that make it easier? Here’s a list of the top 10 pet-friendly airports to help you fly with Fido!

Duty Free

Duty-free shopping is available in all terminals. These are located near gates B9, C17, F5, K5, and M14.

Smoking Areas

ORD is a smoke-free airport, including the use of e-cigarettes. Designated smoking areas are located outside of the terminals.

Interesting Features

ORD has an Aeroponic Garden (where no soil is used for growth,) and many of the restaurants use the fresh produce grown here in their meals. There are also some interesting art exhibits and a huge replica dinosaur skeleton.

Prayer

There is a multi-faith chapel located in Terminal 2 on the mezzanine level.

Money

ATMs are located in all terminals, both inside and outside of the secure area. Currency exchange centers can be found in the following locations:

• Terminal 1: Near gates B10 and C18
• Terminal 2: Near the medical center
• Terminal 3: Near gate K10
• Terminal 5: Near gate M8 and near door 5E on the lower level

Medical Center

Passengers requiring urgent care can visit the O’Hare Urgent Care Clinic, located in Terminal 2 just past the security checkpoint.

Luggage

There are no on-site storage services for luggage.

Important ORD Phone Numbers

Customer Service: 800-832-6352

Parking: 773-686-7530

Travel To and From ORD

Transportation Options From ORD

Onward transportation services are located either on the upper or lower levels outside of each terminal, and are well-marked with overhead and floor signs.

Train

• CTA Blue Line Trains: This underground train service is operated by the Chicago Transit Authority, with the airport situated on the blue line. Trains run 24/7 with the journey time to the Chicago Loop (downtown) taking 40-45 minutes. The station at ORD is located at Terminal 2 on the lower level of the main parking garage. Follow the signs for “Trains to City.”
• Metra: The Metra Train is a commuter service connecting downtown with the Chicago suburbs. The north central service stops at ORD at the O’Hare Transfer Station, located on the northeast side of the airport. To reach the station, ride the shuttle bus from the upper levels of T1-T3, or the lower level of T5. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle to the Multi-Modal Facility, and the station is a short walk.
• Amtrak: For Amtrak services from La Grange Road Station, take the Pace bus 330 from the Economy Lot E bus shelter.

Bus

These operate from the “Bus/Shuttle Center” on level 1 of the main parking garage.

• Pace: Pace bus routes provide access to downtown Chicago and beyond. Route 250 operates daily to downtown from the Economy Lot E bus shelter.
• Regional Bus: If you’re traveling outside of the Chicago area, then there are many regional bus services available. View operators on the airport’s website.
• Shuttle: Private or shared shuttles are available to pre-book. Go Airport Express is one operator, with pick-up and drop-offs outside of baggage claim on the lower level. All other shuttles operate from the Bus/Shuttle Center.

Taxi

• Taxis are available at each terminal on the lower level outside of baggage claim. From the airport to downtown Chicago, the cost is around $30-$40.

Limousine

• Pre-arranged and on-demand limousine services are available at each terminal. Pick-up is available from the lower level center road lane outside of baggage claim.

Ride Services

• Uber drivers are permitted to pick-up and drop-off passengers on the lower level of each terminal.

Transportation to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

The most cost-effective way to get between the 2 airports is to ride the CTA to downtown Chicago on the blue line, and then connect via the orange line to MDW. The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Alternatively, there are regular shuttles that depart from the “Bus / Shuttle Center” at ORD, which take around an hour.

Driving to ORD

Arriving From Downtown Chicago

Take I-90 west all the way from downtown Chicago to O’Hare Airport.

Arriving From MDW Airport

Take I-55 south in Forest View, then take exit 277A to merge onto I-294 N toward Wisconsin. Take exit 40 toward I-190 W/O’Hare/River Road, and keep right to merge onto I-190 west. Follow signs for the airport. 

ORD Airport Parking Information

Official Airport Parking

There are a variety of airport parking options available for ORD passengers, located either outside of the terminals or further away near the Multi-Modal Facility.

Short-Term Parking

Hourly parking is available in the main parking garage (Garage Lot A,) on level 1, adjacent to Terminals 1-3. Parking Lot D is adjacent to Terminal 5, with both parking lots offering the following rates:

Garage Lot A provides covered parking with a clearance of 6’6″ — Garage Lot D has no height restrictions.

Daily parking is available in Garages A (levels 2-6,) B, and C (uncovered), with Lots B and C also adjacent to the terminals. This option is cheaper than the hourly parking lot after 4 hours:

Clearances are higher at Parking Lots B (9’0″) and C (8’5″).

Long-Term Parking

If you require parking for a longer duration, then Economy Lots E, F, and G are the most economical options. Clearance is 8’2″ at Economy Lot F.

Hot Tip: Passengers can ride free shuttle buses to/from the economy parking lots to Economy Parking Lot E, where the ATS runs to. While the modernization takes place, there are shuttle buses operating between the economy parking lots and the terminals. 

Valet Parking

Valet parking is available in Garage Lot A; follow the signs for “Valet Parking.” Daily parking is $61.

Reserved Parking

Reserved parking is located in Garage Lot A on level 4, and with advance booking, you won’t need to drive around searching for a space. The reservation fee is $10 per day, per space, in addition to the standard parking fees.

Pick-Up or Drop-Off Parking

Curbside pick-up and drop-off is available at every terminal; however, no waiting is permitted. Vehicles collecting passengers can utilize the Cell Phone Lot. This allows temporary free parking until the passenger calls for curbside pick-up.

Kiss ‘n’ Fly Parking

To avoid the congested airport roads, there is a parking lot for pick-up and drop-off located in the northeast corner of the Multi-Modal Facility. Passengers can ride the free shuttle bus between this parking lot and the terminals while the ATS is under construction.

Off-Site and Hotel Parking

Off-site parking lots will offer the most favorable rates for parking your car, with all establishments offering courtesy shuttle buses to/from the terminals.

Daily parking for ORD starts at around $10, with easy booking available on airportparkingreservations.com.

Parking for Passengers With Disabilities

There are 325 accessible parking spaces across the airport’s parking lots, located closest to elevators and other onward travel facilities. All shuttle buses operating to/from the parking lots lower to the curb for wheelchair access.

Hot Tip: Want more information about flying with a disability or mobility concern? See our guide to flying with a disability to make sure you know your rights and what can be provided by the airport and airlines.

Parking Contact Numbers

General parking inquiries: 773-686-7530

Car Rental at ORD Airport

Car rental companies are situated in the Multi-Modal Facility, accessible by shuttle bus from all terminals.

Hot Tip: Read about the credit cards that include car rental insurance so you can avoid paying for expensive insurance through the rental provider. 

ORD Airport Hotels

ORD has a range of 2-star to 4-star hotels, mostly located between 1-3 miles from the airport. If you want to be as close to the airport as possible, then the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport is located just outside of the domestic terminals.

Most hotels offer a shuttle service to and from the airport, so be sure to inquire on booking.

ORD Airport Hotels – Sorted by Distance from ORD

Top 3 Hotel Stays Using Points

The Hyatt Regency O’Hare is both the largest hotel outside the city and the largest convention center near the airport. The hotel offers great dining, a free airport shuttle, access to the “L” train, and Regency club access to Globalist members or those who purchase an eligible room. This hotel is a real steal for World of Hyatt members that can book this hotel at just 8,000 Hyatt points per night.

The Westin O’Hare provides close proximity to not only O’Hare International airport, but also the Allstate Arena and Fashion Outlets of Chicago. Travelers receive a complimentary shuttle service, access to the “L” train, a fitness center, indoor pool, and Starbucks coffee. Marriott Bonvoy rewards members can book a room for just 20,000 points on off-peak nights, 25,000 points on standard nights, and 30,000 points on peak nights.

Guests at the DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago O’Hare can enjoy the property’s fitness center, pool, and business center, along with popular dining options like Gibsons Steakhouse and BC Bistro. DoubleTree is a member of the Hilton Hotels portfolio, so Hilton Honors members can book a room for 40,000 Hilton points per night, and guests with Hilton Gold status or higher receiver a complimentary breakfast each morning.

Hot Tip: Looking to have hotel status but don’t meet the stay requirements? There are lots of credit cards that award you complimentary hotel status simply for having the card. 

O’Hare 21 Expansion Plan

Chicago recently announced the winning architectural firm for the O’Hare 21 expansion plan for a new Global Terminal. With an estimated completion of 2028, you’ll be waiting a while. But the $8.5 billion expansion project will replace the existing T2 with a modernized terminal and 25 additional gates.

The winning design by lead architects Studio Gang aims to bring the outdoors in, with lots of trees, sunlight, and open space. T2’s additional capacity will enable both domestic and international flights to depart from the new terminal.

Final Thoughts

Getting around ORD hasn’t been as seamless as usual lately with the closure of the Airport Transit System for renovations.

When the ATS re-opens in the fall, train service will be extended to the Multi-Modal Facility, meaning passengers can travel between the terminals, car rental center, economy car parking lots, and Metra train station with ease.

And it’s not just the new Global Terminal that’s currently in the pipeline — Terminal 5 is due to receive significant improvements over the next few years. 2021 will see its capacity increased by 25% with an extra 350,000 square feet, and 2022 will unleash roadway enhancements and expanded curbside pick-up and drop-off areas.