Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and for many travelers, it’s also a place where layovers stretch from a couple of hours to nearly half a day. The good news? Whether you have a short layover or a longer one, there are great ways to make the most of your time without stressing about logistics.
Less Than 4 Hours: Stay Inside the Airport
Since O’Hare is a long ride from downtown Chicago, if your layover is under four hours, you’ll want to stay inside the airport. Fortunately, there are plenty of good food and drink options to keep you entertained.
- Terminal 3: O’Briens – Head to O’Briens and order an authentic Chicago-style hotdog. No ketchup, of course! Just mustard, onions, relish, pickle, tomato, sport peppers, and celery salt.
- Terminal 5: Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless – If you’re flying international or passing through Terminal 5, this is a must. Chef Rick Bayless’s Tortas Frontera is famous for gourmet Mexican sandwiches and fresh guacamole.
- Other Spots Worth a Stop: Publican Tavern (Terminal 3) for craft beers and hearty Midwestern fare, or Garrett Popcorn Shops (multiple terminals) for Chicago’s iconic “Garrett Mix” of caramel and cheese popcorn.
💡 Tip: You can walk between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 via walkways. Just follow the overhead signs. Terminal 5 is separate, so if you’re there, you won’t be able to move to the others without going through security again.
More Than 4 Hours: Head into the City
If you have at least four hours to spare, you can leave the airport and see a slice of Chicago.
Getting to the Train (Blue Line CTA “L”)
Follow the “Trains to City” signs in the airport to the CTA Blue Line station, located in the lower level of the parking garage near Terminal 2. You don’t need to purchase a Ventra transit card. Just tap your credit or debit card with a chip at the turnstile. A $5 pre-authorization will appear at first, but you will only be charged for what you actually ride. This tap-to-pay system works on all CTA trains and buses.
The ride from O’Hare to downtown Chicago takes about 45–60 minutes.
🚕 Prefer a car? Skip the rideshare apps and head to the taxi stand outside the terminal. Taxis are typically faster to grab, cheaper than rideshare for downtown trips, and take about the same amount of time as the train.
Shorter Trip Option: Logan Square
Don’t want to go all the way downtown? Get off at the Logan Sqaure or California stop on the Blue Line (about 30–40 minutes from O’Hare). This brings you to Logan Square, a trendy neighborhood filled with coffee shops, cocktail bars, and locally loved restaurants. Perfect for a quick neighborhood vibe before heading back to the airport.
Downtown Stops Worth Your Time
If you would like to explore downtown, the Blue Line offers two particularly good stops:
- Clark & Lake Stop
- Best for the Chicago Riverwalk, River North’s restaurants, and iconic landmarks like the Chicago Theater marquee, Daley Plaza with the Picasso statue, and the twin Marina Towers.
- Jackson Stop
- Convenient for restaurants like The Gage, Chicago Athletic Association, the historic Berghoff, or Italian Village. Nearby landmarks include Millennium Park with “The Bean” and Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.
Getting Back to the Airport
When you’re ready to return, simply head back to the nearest Blue Line station and take the train marked “O’Hare.” If you’re ever unsure, ask the station attendant. The ride back takes about an hour, so give yourself plenty of time before your next flight.
Final Thoughts
A long layover at O’Hare doesn’t have to mean boredom. Stay inside for a Chicago hotdog or a torta, or venture out for a taste of the city’s neighborhoods and downtown landmarks. With the Blue Line and taxis both offering easy connections, you can enjoy a little Chicago adventure before your next flight takes off.
Heidi Go Seek 
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