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Parking at Chicago O’Hare Airport

O’Hare Airport offers a wide range of parking options to meet diverse needs, from short-term stays for dropping off or picking up passengers to economical solutions for long trips. However, real traveler experiences show the system can be expensive and sometimes confusing. This guide will help you understand each option, its rates, and the most common issues so you can pick the best alternative for your trip.
Quick Parking FAQs at O’Hare
- What’s the cheapest option for long-term parking? Economy lots G and H are the cheapest (approx. $16/day). However, they’re often closed, forcing drivers to use more expensive alternatives.
- What’s the closest option to the domestic terminals? The Main Garage, located in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It’s ideal for short stays but is the most expensive option for a full day.
- I’m picking someone up—where do I wait? Use the Cell Phone Lot. It’s a free parking lot where you can wait safely until your passenger calls you for curbside pickup.
- What’s the most common complaint? 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.
Real Experiences: Costs, Closures & Confusion

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User experience: The main frustration with O’Hare parking isn't just the high cost, but the unpredictability and lack of transparency. The most common complaint is the frequent closure of economy lots G and H—even when they appear to have spots available. This forces drivers to park in Lot F or the Main Garage, which have significantly higher rates, leading to a feeling of being misled. Additionally, signage guiding motorists through the lots and levels is often described as confusing, adding stress to the experience.
Tip: Before heading to the airport, check the status of parking lots on O’Hare’s official website if possible. If you want the cheapest option, be prepared for the possibility that Lots G and H may be closed—and have a Plan B ready.
⚠️ Rates updated as of June 2025. Please confirm current rates with the airport before heading to any of the parking lots.
Parking Options & 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 access to the terminals via the ATS train.
- 0–1 hour: $3.00
- 1–2 hours: $6.00
- 2–3 hours: $10.00
- 3–4 hours: $14.00
- 4–24 hours: $22.00
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’re the cheapest—but often closed.
- 0–1 hour: $3.00
- 1–24 hours: $15.00
Main Garage (Hourly & Daily Parking)
Located in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It’s the most convenient option for short stays or if proximity overrides cost.
Level 1 (Hourly Parking)
Designed for stays under 3 hours.
- 0–1 hour: $3.00
- 1–2 hours: $6.00
- 2–3 hours: $10.00
- 3–4 hours: $14.00
- 4–8 hours: $36.00
- 8–24 hours: $77.00
Levels 2–6 & Lots B and C (Daily Parking)
Best choice within the main garage for stays over 3 hours.
- 0–1 hour: $3.00
- 1–2 hours: $6.00
- 2–3 hours: $10.00
- 3–4 hours: $14.00
- 4–8 hours: $36.00
- 8–24 hours: $42.00
Lot D (Terminal 5)
Short‑term outdoor lot next to Terminal 5. Not recommended for long stays.
- 0–1 hour: $3.00
- 1–2 hours: $6.00
- 2–3 hours: $10.00
- 3–4 hours: $14.00
- 4–8 hours: $36.00
- 8–24 hours: $77.00
Special Parking Services
Valet Parking
Offers direct, covered access to Terminals 1 and 3. Daily rate is $64.00. Operates on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Reserved Parking
Allows you to reserve a covered spot on level 4 of the Main Garage. The reservation costs an additional $10.00 per day, not including parking fees.
Cell Phone Lot
Located at 560 North Bessie Coleman Drive, it’s a temporary and free waiting area to pick up arriving passengers. It’s the most efficient way to avoid circling the airport.