What is the cheapest parking option for long-term stays at O'Hare Airport?

Economy Lots G and H are the cheapest option, costing approximately $16 per day. However, they are often closed, which forces drivers to use more expensive alternatives like Lot F or the Main Garage.

What is the closest parking to the domestic terminals at O'Hare?

The Main Garage is located directly in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It is ideal for short stays but is the most expensive option for a full day, costing up to $77 for 8-24 hours.

Where can I wait to pick someone up at O'Hare Airport?

Use the Cell Phone Lot located at 560 North Bessie Coleman Drive. It is a free parking lot where you can wait safely until your passenger calls you for curbside pickup. It is the most efficient way to avoid circling the airport.

What is the most common complaint about parking at O'Hare?

The most common complaint is the unexpected closure of economy Lots G and H. Many travelers feel 'forced' to pay higher rates in Lot F or the Main Garage, which feels unfair. The signage guiding drivers through the lots is also often described as confusing.

How much does it cost to park at O'Hare's Main Garage for a full day?

For 8-24 hours, the Main Garage costs $77 on Level 1 (Hourly Parking) and $42 on Levels 2-6 (Daily Parking). For shorter stays, rates start at $3 for the first hour and increase progressively.

Is there valet parking at Chicago O'Hare Airport?

Yes, valet parking is available at Terminals 1 and 3. The daily rate is $64.00. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers direct, covered access to the terminals.

Can I reserve a parking spot in advance at O'Hare?

Yes, you can reserve a covered spot on level 4 of the Main Garage. The reservation costs an additional $10.00 per day, not including the standard parking fees.

Parking at Chicago O'Hare Airport

O'Hare Airport offers a wide range of parking options to suit various needs, from short stays for picking up or dropping off passengers to economical solutions for long trips. However, the real traveler experience reveals that the system can be expensive and sometimes confusing. This guide will help you understand each option, their rates, and the most common issues so you can choose the best alternative for your trip.

Quick Questions about Parking at O'Hare

What is the most economical option for long stays? The G and H economy lots are the cheapest (approx. 16 USD/day). However, they are often closed, forcing drivers to use more expensive options.
What is the closest option to the domestic terminals? The Main Garage, located in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It is ideal for short stays, but it is the most expensive option for full-day parking.
I'm picking someone up, where should I wait? Use the Cell Phone Lot. It's a free parking lot where you can wait safely until the person calls you to pick them up at the curb.
What is the most common complaint from users? The unexpected closure of the G and H economy lots. Many travelers feel "forced" to pay higher rates at Lot F or the Main Garage, perceiving this as an unfair practice.

The Real Experience: Costs, Closures, and Confusion

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User experience:

The main frustration for travelers with O'Hare parking is not just the high cost, but the unpredictability and lack of transparency. The most recurring complaint is the frequent closure of economy lots, even when there are spaces available. This forces drivers to head to closer options, whose rates are significantly higher, creating a feeling of being misled. Additionally, signage to navigate between the different lots and levels is often described as confusing, adding stress to the experience.

Strategy: if your priority is price, always have a backup plan in mind before leaving home — don't assume the cheapest lot will have space available upon arrival.

Tip: Before heading to the airport, check the status of parking lots on O'Hare's official website if possible. If you're looking for the most economical option, prepare for the possibility that economy lots may be closed and have a backup plan.

⚠️ Rates updated as of June 2026. We recommend verifying current prices with the airport before heading to any of its parking facilities.

Parking Options and Rates

Economy Parking

Ideal for multi-day trips. These lots are connected to the terminals via the ATS train or shuttle buses.

Lot F

Located on levels 4 and 5 of the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). Offers covered parking and 24/7 connection to the terminals via the ATS train.

0 to 1 hour: 3.00 USD
1 to 2 hours: 6.00 USD
2 to 3 hours: 10.00 USD
3 to 4 hours: 14.00 USD
4 to 24 hours: 30.00 USD

Lots G and H

Located northeast of the terminals. A free shuttle bus connects them to the MMF, where you take the ATS train. They are the cheapest, but are often closed.

0 to 1 hour: 3.00 USD
1 to 24 hours: 16.00 USD

Main Garage (Hourly and Daily Parking)

Located in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It is the most convenient option for short stays or if you prioritize proximity over price.

Level 1 (Hourly Parking)

Designed for stays of less than 3 hours.

0 to 1 hour: 3.00 USD
1 to 2 hours: 6.00 USD
2 to 3 hours: 10.00 USD
3 to 4 hours: 14.00 USD
4 to 8 hours: 36.00 USD
8 to 24 hours: 79.00 USD

Levels 2-6 and Lots B and C (Daily Parking)

The best option within the main garage for stays of more than 3 hours.

0 to 1 hour: 3.00 USD
1 to 2 hours: 6.00 USD
2 to 3 hours: 10.00 USD
3 to 4 hours: 14.00 USD
4 to 8 hours: 36.00 USD
8 to 24 hours: 43.00 USD

Lot D (Terminal 5)

Outdoor short-stay lot, adjacent to Terminal 5. Not recommended for long stays.

0 to 1 hour: 3.00 USD
1 to 2 hours: 6.00 USD
2 to 3 hours: 10.00 USD
3 to 4 hours: 14.00 USD
4 to 8 hours: 36.00 USD
8 to 24 hours: 43.00 USD

Special Parking Services

Valet Parking

Offers direct covered access to Terminals 1 and 3. The daily rate is 64.00 USD. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reserved Parking

Allows you to secure a covered space on level 4 of the main garage. The reservation has an additional cost of 10.00 USD per day, which does not include the parking fee.

Cell Phone Lot

Located at 560 North Bessie Coleman Drive, it is a temporary and free parking area to wait for arriving passengers. It is the most efficient way to avoid circling the airport.

Kiss 'n' Fly

Passenger drop-off point located at the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), designed to avoid congestion on terminal curbs. From here, passengers access the ATS train.

Pros and cons of parking at O'Hare

Pros: wide variety of options depending on budget and available time; the Cell Phone Lot is free and eliminates the need to circle around waiting; all lots connect to terminals via ATS or shuttle; premium options (valet, reserved) for those who prioritize convenience.

Cons: the cheapest economy lots are frequently closed, with no guarantee of availability; the price difference between the cheapest lot and the Main Garage is considerable; signage between lots and levels causes confusion; without prior reservation, there is no way to secure the most economical rate.