Chicago Midway Airport Terminal
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.
The terminal at
Chicago Midway International Airport is known for its compact layout, short walking distances, and strong focus on local Chicago food and culture. Unlike many large international hubs with multiple terminals, Midway operates with one main passenger terminal connected to three concourses (A, B, and C).
This design allows travelers to move quickly between check-in, security, and boarding gates, making Midway one of the easiest major airports in the United States to navigate. The terminal currently handles 43 aircraft gates, serving millions of passengers each year.
Because the airport has only one terminal, connections between flights are usually fast and simple, often requiring less than 10 minutes of walking.
Historical Background and Origins
Midway Airport has a long aviation history. The site originally opened in 1927 as Chicago Municipal Airport, serving mainly airmail flights before passenger aviation expanded.
During the 1940s and 1950s, Midway became one of the busiest airports in the world. However, as aircraft grew larger, airlines gradually moved to O’Hare International Airport in the 1960s.
The modern terminal was built during a major redevelopment project completed in 2001, which expanded the airport with a 900,000-square-foot passenger terminal and improved ticketing and baggage areas.
A unique feature of this renovation is that parts of the terminal were built above Cicero Avenue, allowing expansion within the airport’s limited urban space.
Terminal Layout and Concourse Structure
Midway Airport has one terminal building divided into three concourses:
Concourse A
- Around 17 gates
- Used by several airlines including Southwest, Delta, and others
- Contains restaurants, retail shops, and some passenger services
Concourse B
- The largest concourse with around 23 gates
- Primarily used by Southwest Airlines
- Large selection of restaurants and shops
Concourse C
- Smaller concourse with 3 gates
- Includes services such as the USO Lounge and quiet areas for passengers.
The central area between the concourses contains the Central Market food hall, a large dining and retail zone featuring Chicago-style cuisine and travel shops.
The airport is compact, but gates in Concourse B can still require a 10-minute walk from security, so allow enough time before boarding.
Restaurants and Bars (Top Rated Options)
Midway Airport emphasizes local Chicago restaurants rather than only global chains.
Arami – Sushi & Japanese
- Location: Concourse A, near Gate A7
- Cuisine: Sushi, poke bowls, Japanese dishes
- Hours: Typically 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Reilly’s Daughter – Irish Pub
- Location: Central Market / Concourse A
- Menu: Fish and chips, burgers, Irish beer, cocktails
- One of the most popular spots for drinks before flights.
Billy Goat Tavern
- Famous Chicago burger restaurant
- Menu: burgers, sandwiches, beer
- Ideal for travelers wanting a classic Chicago food experience.
Big Shoulders Coffee
- Location: Concourse A
- Local Chicago coffee roaster
- Popular for breakfast pastries and espresso drinks.
The Central Market food court is the best place to find the largest concentration of restaurants and bars in the airport.
Shops and Retail Stores
The terminal offers several shopping categories:
Travel Essentials
- Convenience stores
- Electronics accessories
- Travel supplies
Chicago Souvenirs
- Chicago sports merchandise
- Local gifts and souvenirs
Books and Media
- Newsstands
- Bookstores for travel reading
One famous stop is Garrett Popcorn Shops, where travelers buy the famous Chicago Mix popcorn (cheese + caramel) as a souvenir.
Duty Free
Because Midway has limited international traffic, the duty-free selection is smaller than major international hubs, but passengers on international flights can still find tax-free perfumes, alcohol, and cosmetics in designated retail stores.
Airport Facilities
Midway’s terminal includes several passenger services:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- ATMs and currency services
- Charging stations for phones and laptops
- Business centers
- Chapel and quiet rooms
- Baggage carts and luggage services
The airport also features art installations through the “Art in the Airport” program, displaying works from local artists.
Family and Accessibility Services
Midway provides facilities for families and passengers with reduced mobility:
Family Services
- Baby changing rooms
- Family restrooms
- Nursing rooms
- Play areas for children
Accessibility
- Elevators and accessible restrooms
- Wheelchair assistance
- Priority boarding services
Passengers needing assistance should contact their airline at least 48 hours before departure.
Security and Baggage Control
All passengers must pass through TSA security checkpoints located in the main terminal before entering the concourses.
Security areas include:
- Standard screening lanes
- TSA PreCheck for faster screening
- Baggage scanning systems
Morning departures between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM are usually the busiest security periods.
Lost and Found
Lost items at Midway may be handled by different departments depending on where they were lost:
- Airport public areas: Midway Communication Center
- Security checkpoints: TSA lost and found
- Airplanes or gates: airline customer service desks
Passengers should report lost items as soon as possible.
Check-in and Boarding Information
Check-in counters are located on the upper level of the terminal, with baggage claim on the lower level.
Passengers typically proceed through these steps:
-
Airline check-in or self-service kiosks
-
Security screening
-
Access to concourses A, B, or C
-
Boarding at the assigned gate
Most airlines recommend arriving:
- 2 hours before domestic flights
- 3 hours before international flights
Online check-in and mobile boarding passes can significantly reduce waiting time at the airport.
Most Popular Flights from Midway Airport
These routes represent some of the most common leisure and business connections from the airport.