Midway Airport Transportation Guide for Chicago Travelers
Chicago Midway is smaller than O'Hare but still handles millions of passengers. Here is what you need to know about getting to and from Midway efficiently.
About Midway International Airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (IATA: MDW) is located approximately 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago in the Midway neighborhood on Chicago's South Side. Unlike O'Hare's complex multi-terminal layout, Midway operates from a single, more compact terminal — making navigation considerably simpler for travelers.
Midway is the primary hub for Southwest Airlines and also serves several other carriers. Its southwest location makes it the more convenient airport for many south side Chicago residents and south/southwest suburban communities compared to O'Hare, which is on the opposite side of the metro area.
Midway vs. O'Hare: Which Airport Is Better for You?
Choosing between Midway and O'Hare often comes down to your airline, your destination within Chicagoland, and your travel priorities:
Choose Midway if you...
- Are flying Southwest Airlines
- Live on Chicago's South Side or southwest suburbs
- Prefer a smaller, easier-to-navigate airport
- Are traveling to downtown Chicago (shorter distance)
- Want faster security lines in off-peak periods
Choose O'Hare if you...
- Are flying United, American, or international carriers
- Live in northwest Chicago or northwest suburbs
- Need international connections or international arrivals
- Want more flight frequency and route options
Travel Times from Midway
| Destination | Approx. Distance | Approx. Time Range |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Chicago (Loop) | ~10 miles | 20–45 min |
| Chicago Heights | ~25 miles | 30–55 min |
| Naperville | ~22 miles | 25–50 min |
| O'Hare Airport | ~30 miles | 40–75 min |
| Orland Park | ~15 miles | 20–40 min |
Approximate ranges only. Traffic conditions vary significantly by time of day.
Midway Private Car Service Tips
- Midway's single terminal makes driver coordination simpler than at multi-terminal O'Hare
- Pickup areas are outside the terminal — your driver will provide specific instructions
- Include your flight number when booking so the driver can monitor your arrival time
- Southwest Airlines does not assign seats — some travelers rush to board; factor in the time you'll spend at the gate
- Southwest side expressway traffic (I-55, I-94 south) can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours