Airports Near Chicago
Looking for the nearest airport to Chicago? Chicago is served by a couple of airports located in different directions around the city. With two airports within a 50-mile radius, you still have solid options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Chicago?
The closest airport to Chicago is Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), a large airport located approximately 6.9 miles (11.1 km) southwest of the city center. The driving distance is about 9.4 miles (15.1 km), which typically takes around 17 minutes by car.
For better flight options, consider Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), which offers more connections. It's located 15.8 miles (25.5 km) northwest of Chicago. The driving distance is approximately 19.7 miles (31.7 km), with a typical drive time of 32 minutes.
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Direct Distance 📏
6.9 miles
11.1 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
9.4 miles
15.1 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
17 min
Direction ➤
Southwest
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Located 15.8 miles (25.5 km) northwest of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
15.8 miles
25.5 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
19.7 miles
31.7 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
32 min
Direction ➤
Northwest
Nearby airports to Chicago
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Midway International Airport | MDW | Chicago | 6.9 mi (11.1 km) | 9.4 mi (15.1 km) | 17 min | Large |
| Chicago O'Hare International Airport | ORD | Chicago | 15.8 mi (25.5 km) | 19.7 mi (31.7 km) | 32 min | Large |
| South Bend International Airport | SBN | South Bend | 69.4 mi (111.6 km) | 91.2 mi (146.8 km) | 1 h 53 min | Medium-sized |
| Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport | MKE | Milwaukee | 76.8 mi (123.7 km) | 83.4 mi (134.2 km) | 1 h 44 min | Large |
| Chicago Rockford International Airport | RFD | Rockford | 78 mi (125.6 km) | 88.3 mi (142.2 km) | 1 h 47 min | Medium-sized |
| Purdue University Airport | LAF | West Lafayette | 106 mi (170.5 km) | 122.8 mi (197.6 km) | 2 h 35 min | Medium-sized |
| Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport | AZO | Kalamazoo | 110.9 mi (178.5 km) | 144.8 mi (233 km) | 2 h 51 min | Medium-sized |
| Central Illinois Regional Airport | BMI | Bloomington | 115.5 mi (185.8 km) | 129.7 mi (208.7 km) | 2 h 35 min | Medium-sized |
| Muskegon County Airport | MKG | Muskegon | 116.1 mi (186.9 km) | 179.1 mi (288.3 km) | 3 h 37 min | Medium-sized |
| Dane County Regional Airport | MSN | Madison | 123.8 mi (199.3 km) | 154.5 mi (248.6 km) | 3 h 6 min | Medium-sized |
| University of Illinois Willard Airport | CMI | Champaign | 129.3 mi (208.2 km) | 142.9 mi (229.9 km) | 2 h 49 min | Medium-sized |
| Gerald R. Ford International Airport | GRR | Grand Rapids | 129.9 mi (209 km) | 182.8 mi (294.1 km) | 3 h 29 min | Medium-sized |
| General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport | PIA | Peoria | 134.1 mi (215.8 km) | 169.2 mi (272.3 km) | 3 h 14 min | Medium-sized |
| Fort Wayne International Airport | FWA | Fort Wayne | 140.7 mi (226.5 km) | 164.8 mi (265.2 km) | 3 h 41 min | Medium-sized |
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Chicago, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.