Taxis, Limousines, Ridesharing
Taxis, Limousines, and Ridesharing: Personalized Transportation
Taxi services and ridesharing platforms such as Uber and Lyft are available at all O'Hare terminals, with designated zones for passenger pick-up. User reviews suggest that this type of transportation is a convenient option, though some mention that pick-up zones are far from the arrival gates, which can be inconvenient, especially when traveling with a lot of luggage or for those with reduced mobility.
Limousine services are another luxurious alternative, ideal for business travelers or those seeking more comfort. However, some reviews indicate that prices can be high, and it’s important to book in advance to avoid delays. Reviews from June 2024 mentioned that Uber rates during peak hours can double or triple, making it less attractive at these times.
Traveler Tip:
If you plan to use a taxi or rideshare service, it's helpful to have the app ready before leaving the terminal and heading to the designated areas to save time. Reviews also recommend being mindful of dynamic pricing, which can increase costs during peak hours.
Taxi
Cab stands are located on the lower level curbside (outside of baggage claim) of each terminal, where you can hire services to destinations in Chicago and the suburbs.
Be sure to board vehicles at designated stops to ensure you have a licensed driver. For your safety, do not accept rides from drivers outside of cab ranks or on the boarding level (second level) of the terminal walkways.
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All cabs must have a working meter to calculate the fare based on time and mileage.
- Fares are based on traffic conditions, but the average fare from O'Hare to downtown Chicago is USD30.00-40.00.
- Travel time (off-peak) is 30-40 minutes.
- To request wheelchair-accessible vehicles, call Tel +1 888 928 2227.
A shared-ride service is also available for those who wish to share a ride and pay a flat rate to certain destinations. Fares from O'Hare include:
- Downtown: USD24.00 per person
- McCormick Place: USD24.00 per person
- Midway International Airport: USD37.00 per person
Ride-sharing
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available through apps or digital platforms to connect passengers with for-hire vehicle drivers.
Pick-up areas for these services are located at the following locations:
- Terminal 2: upper level waiting area, between gates 2A and 2E
- Zone A BLACK: north side, outside concourse 2A
- Zone B BLUE: outside concourse 2A
- Zone C ORANGE: outside concourse 2B
- Zone D GREEN: outside concourse 2E
- Passengers must wait in the specified color zones until their vehicle arrives before proceeding to the designated pick-up location. There is an internal waiting area between concourses 2A and 2D.
For more information about the Rideshare program, visit the City of Chicago website.
Limousines
Limousines are available for both the city of Chicago and suburban destinations.
Contact your chosen company near the reservation boards. You may also refer to the list of pre-arranged services located near the airport information desks across from Gate C on the lower level of each terminal.
Pre-Arranged Rides
If you have pre-arranged a ride with a limousine company, you should call the service once you have picked up your luggage. They will provide you with a license plate number, a description of the car and/or a gate number where you can meet the driver. Drivers can only meet passengers in designated areas in the center lane of the lower level (lane 2). Depending on traffic, it may take 5-20 minutes for the vehicle to arrive at the designated pick-up location.
Meeting drivers at baggage claim
Some limousine services may arrange for their drivers to meet passengers at the baggage claim area. The driver can then assist with the luggage and take the passenger directly to the vehicle. O'Hare offers designated limousine parking directly in front of each of the terminals. It is usually a 5-7 minute walk to the vehicle.