Midway Airport Transportation
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.
Chicago Midway is one of the most accessible airports in the United States thanks to its wide range of public transport, taxis, rideshares, shuttles, and road connections. Located about 13 km (8 miles) southwest of downtown Chicago, the airport allows passengers to reach the city center in as little as 20–30 minutes depending on the chosen transport method. 
Most transportation services depart from the Ground Transportation Center, located just outside the terminal building.
Metro / Train (CTA “L” Orange Line)
The most popular and economical way to travel between the airport and downtown is the Chicago ’L’ Orange Line, part of the network operated by the Chicago Transit Authority.
The Orange Line station is located at the Midway Transportation Center, connected to the airport terminal by a short covered walkway.
Main destinations
- The Loop (Downtown Chicago)
- Business districts
- Connections with other “L” train lines
Travel time
- Around 20–30 minutes to downtown Chicago.
Ticket prices
- Around $2.50 per ride.
Operating hours
- Approximately 3:30 AM to 1:00 AM depending on direction.
If you plan to use public transport several times during your stay, consider buying a CTA day pass or multi-day pass, which can significantly reduce travel costs.
Buses and Airport Shuttles
Several city buses and regional shuttle services operate from Midway Airport.
CTA and Pace buses
Local buses from the Chicago Transit Authority and Pace suburban buses stop at the Midway Transportation Center near the train station.
Typical destinations include:
- Southwest Chicago neighborhoods
- Nearby suburbs
- Connections with other train stations
Prices
- CTA bus fare: around $2.25 per ride.
- Pace suburban bus: about $1.75–$2.00 depending on payment method.
Shuttle services
Private airport shuttle vans operate from the arrivals area and provide shared or private rides to:
- Downtown hotels
- Convention centers
- Suburban areas
Typical shuttle prices range from $15 to $27 depending on destination.
Shuttles are often the best option for travelers staying at specific hotels because they provide door-to-door service.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services (Uber / Lyft)
Taxis are available outside the terminal building at the designated taxi stand, while rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have specific pickup zones in the arrivals area.
Typical fares
- Downtown Chicago: about $35–$45 depending on traffic.
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Ride-hailing services usually cost $25–$40, although prices may increase during peak demand periods.
Common destinations
- Downtown Chicago (The Loop)
- Magnificent Mile
- McCormick Place
- Nearby suburbs
During rush hour or large events, taxi lines may be long. In these cases the Orange Line train is often faster and cheaper.
Car Rental
Several major rental companies operate at Midway Airport, including well-known international brands.
Location
The Midway Rental Car Facility is located just west of Cicero Avenue, a short distance from the terminal.
A free shuttle bus connects the terminal with the rental center every few minutes.
Typical rental prices
- Economy car: $40–$70 per day
- SUV or larger vehicles: $70–$120 per day
Popular driving destinations
- Downtown Chicago
- Lake Michigan shoreline
- Wisconsin or Indiana road trips
- Indiana Dunes National Park
Renting a car is not always necessary for downtown visits because public transport in Chicago is very efficient. A rental vehicle is more useful if you plan to explore the surrounding region.
Arriving by Private Car
Travelers arriving by private vehicle can reach the airport via several major roads.
Main road connections
- Interstate 55 (Stevenson Expressway)
- Cicero Avenue
- 55th Street
The airport is located roughly 17 minutes by car from downtown Chicago without heavy traffic.
Drop-off areas
Passenger drop-off and pick-up zones are located directly in front of the terminal on the upper and lower roadway levels.
During busy periods, traffic around the terminal can be congested. Using the Cell Phone Waiting Lot allows drivers to wait nearby until passengers are ready to be picked up.
Transportation Between Chicago Airports
Travelers transferring between Chicago Midway International Airport and O’Hare International Airport have several options:
- CTA train: Orange Line → transfer downtown → Blue Line (cheapest option)
- Taxi or rideshare: around $60+ depending on traffic
- Shared ride services: about $35 per person
The CTA route is the most economical but can take up to two hours depending on connections.
Transfers
If you want private transportation to and from Midway, you can book a transfer.