Public Transportation from O'Hare Airport (ORD)

O'Hare Airport is well connected to Chicago and its suburbs through a public transportation network that includes the CTA 'L' train, the Metra commuter train, and Pace buses. These are generally the most affordable options to get around. This guide offers an honest overview of each service, based on traveler experiences, to help you choose the best option for your needs and luggage.

Quick Questions About Public Transport at O'Hare

What's the most popular and cheapest option to get downtown? The CTA Blue Line train. It operates 24/7 and takes you directly to downtown Chicago (The Loop) for about $5.
What should I be aware of with the CTA Blue Line? It can get very crowded during rush hours, making it hard to travel with lots of luggage. Also, the walk from the terminals to the station can be long.
Is there another train option? Yes, the Metra North Central Service commuter train. It’s a good alternative for getting to the northern suburbs, but only runs Monday through Friday.
What about buses? The Pace Bus service (routes 250 and 330) connects the airport with various suburbs and other transit lines. Their stops are located at the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF).

CTA 'L' - Blue Line

Trains in Chicago are known as the "L", and the Blue Line is the most direct and affordable way to reach downtown Chicago from O'Hare.

User Experience

The CTA Blue Line is by far the most recommended option by travelers for its unbeatable cost-benefit ratio. Its direct connection to the city center and 24/7 operation are its biggest strengths. However, reviews highlight two key issues:

Crowding: During rush hours or major events, trains can become completely full, making the ride uncomfortable if you're carrying multiple bags.
Long Walks: The 'L' station is located on the lower level of the main parking garage, and reaching it from your terminal (especially Terminal 5) requires a significant walk.

Tip: It's the perfect choice if you're traveling light and your destination is near a Blue Line stop. If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling during rush hour, consider comfort versus cost.

Travel Time and Fare

The trip from O'Hare to downtown (The Loop) takes about 45 minutes.

A regular ticket from the airport costs $5.00. You can buy it at station vending machines using cash or credit card. You can also use a Ventra reloadable card or contactless payment.

For the latest schedules, visit the official CTA website.

Pickup Location

The station is on the lower level of the main parking garage serving Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

From Terminals 1, 2, and 3, follow the signs that say "CTA Trains" or "Trains to City" through the lower-level pedestrian tunnels. From Terminal 5, first take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) to Terminal 3’s station, then follow the signs.

Metra Commuter Train

Metra operates commuter trains that connect downtown with the suburbs. The line serving O'Hare is the North Central Service, running from Union Station to Antioch.

Important: This service only runs Monday through Friday during morning and afternoon rush hours. It’s not an option for weekends or late-night travel.

Travel Time and Fare

The ride from O'Hare Transfer Station to Union Station downtown takes about 30 minutes.

Tickets can be bought onboard or through the Ventra app. The fare to Union Station is around $6.25.

Pickup Location

The O'Hare Transfer Station is located next to the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF).

From any terminal, take the free ATS to the MMF stop. The Metra station is at the building's northeast corner. For more info and schedules, check the Metra website.

Pace Buses

Pace is the suburban bus service that links O'Hare with areas not covered by the 'L' train.

Route 250

This route runs daily and connects to key spots like CTA Davis Street Station (Purple Line), CTA Skokie Station (Yellow Line), and Lutheran General Hospital. The trip to Davis Street Station takes about 65 minutes.

Route 330

This route operates Monday through Saturday and serves areas like La Grange, Countryside, and Hodgkins. The ride to Archer/Harlem takes about 80 minutes.

Fares

A single ride costs $2.00 with Ventra or contactless card, and $2.25 if paying cash (exact amount required).

Pickup Location

Pace buses depart from the bus station at the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), specifically from bays 8 and 9. To reach it, take the free ATS from any terminal to the MMF stop.

For detailed schedules and route maps, visit the Pace website.