If you find yourself with a layover or delay at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), you may want to stretch your legs and explore the airport’s terminals and concourses.
With nearly 10 million square feet of space, O’Hare can be daunting to navigate on foot.
This comprehensive guide provides walking maps and insider tips to help you get around O’Hare efficiently.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: O’Hare has four main terminals – 1, 2, 3, and 5. Each terminal has multiple concourses labeled A-M that you can walk between.
Allow 15-30 minutes to walk between terminals via the underground pedestrian tunnels. Use the airport transit system to quickly move between far terminals.
Overview and Layout of O’Hare Airport
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers each year.
Located in Chicago, Illinois, O’Hare is a hub for multiple major airlines and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Navigating through this massive airport can be overwhelming, but with a detailed walking map and guide, you’ll be able to find your way around with ease.
Terminals and Concourses
O’Hare Airport consists of four main terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5. Each terminal is further divided into concourses, which are designated by letters.
Terminal 5 is primarily used for international flights, while the other terminals handle both domestic and international flights.
Terminal 1 is home to United Airlines, with concourses B and C serving their flights. Terminal 2 is mainly used by Delta Air Lines, with concourses E and F.
Terminal 3 houses both American Airlines and various international carriers, with concourses G, H, K, and L. The underground pedestrian tunnels connect all the terminals and concourses, making it convenient for passengers to move between them.
Underground Pedestrian Tunnels
O’Hare Airport features an extensive system of underground pedestrian tunnels, allowing passengers to easily access different terminals and concourses.
These tunnels are equipped with moving walkways, making it quicker and more efficient to reach your desired destination.
The tunnels are well-lit and clearly marked with signage, ensuring that passengers can navigate through them without any difficulty.
One of the benefits of using the underground pedestrian tunnels is that you can avoid security checkpoints when transferring between terminals. This saves you time and allows for a smoother travel experience.
It’s important to note that there are also elevators and escalators available for passengers with mobility needs.
Airport Transit System
In addition to the underground pedestrian tunnels, O’Hare Airport offers an Airport Transit System (ATS) to help passengers move between terminals quickly.
The ATS consists of driverless trains that run on a track above the ground.
These trains operate 24/7 and provide a convenient way to transfer between terminals, especially for those with limited time or heavy luggage.
The ATS has three stations: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. The trains run at regular intervals, ensuring that passengers can catch a train without much waiting time.
The ATS is free of charge and can comfortably accommodate a large number of passengers.
This transportation option is particularly useful for those who are traveling with young children or have difficulty walking long distances.
With its well-designed layout, underground pedestrian tunnels, and efficient Airport Transit System, O’Hare Airport aims to provide a seamless travel experience for passengers.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, having a detailed walking map and guide to O’Hare Airport will help you navigate this bustling hub with ease.
Terminal 1 Map and Guide
Concourses and Airlines in Terminal 1
Terminal 1 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, also known as ORD, is home to a number of airlines and offers a variety of services for travelers. The terminal consists of three concourses: Concourse B, Concourse C, and Concourse D.
Each concourse is easily accessible from the main terminal building and offers a range of amenities to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible.
Concourse B primarily serves United Airlines, which operates numerous domestic and international flights from this concourse.
United Airlines is one of the largest carriers at O’Hare, offering a wide range of destinations and connecting flights.
Concourse C is home to American Airlines, another major carrier at O’Hare. American Airlines operates both domestic and international flights from this concourse, providing travelers with a vast network of destinations to choose from.
Concourse D is primarily used by Delta Air Lines, offering both domestic and international flights.
Delta Air Lines is known for its extensive route network, allowing passengers to connect to destinations around the world.
Food and Shopping in Terminal 1
When it comes to dining options, Terminal 1 at O’Hare Airport has a wide range of choices to suit every taste.
From fast-casual restaurants to sit-down eateries, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Terminal 1 has you covered.
Some popular dining options include Wolfgang Puck Express, Macaroni Grill, and Potbelly Sandwich Shop.
If you’re looking to do some shopping before your flight, Terminal 1 has a variety of retail outlets to explore.
From designer boutiques to convenience stores, you’ll find everything you need. Some popular shops include Hudson News, Brookstone, and Montblanc.
Whether you’re looking for last-minute travel essentials or luxury goods, Terminal 1 has it all.
Lounges in Terminal 1
For those looking to relax and unwind before their flight, Terminal 1 offers several lounges where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the main terminal.
One of the most popular lounges is the United Club, which offers comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a quiet atmosphere.
Another option is the American Airlines Admirals Club, which provides similar amenities for American Airlines passengers.
Access to these lounges is typically reserved for passengers flying in premium cabins or those with elite status in their airline’s frequent flyer program.
However, some lounges also offer day passes for purchase, allowing any traveler to enjoy the amenities they provide.
Terminal 2 Map and Guide
Terminal 2 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a bustling hub for travelers.
Whether you’re flying out of Terminal 2 or simply passing through, it’s helpful to have a map and guide to navigate this terminal efficiently.
Here’s everything you need to know about Terminal 2 at ORD.
Concourses and Airlines in Terminal 2
Terminal 2 at ORD is home to three concourses: E, F, and G. Each concourse houses different airlines, so it’s essential to know where to go.
Concourse E is primarily used by Delta Air Lines, while Concourse F serves Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
Concourse G is dedicated to United Airlines. Be sure to check your boarding pass or consult the airport signage to find the appropriate concourse for your flight.
Food and Shopping in Terminal 2
When hunger strikes or you’re in need of some retail therapy, Terminal 2 has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings and shopping desires.
From popular fast-food chains to sit-down restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
Some notable dining options in Terminal 2 include McDonald’s, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, and Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless.
Additionally, there are several shops where you can find last-minute travel essentials, souvenirs, and more.
Lounges in Terminal 2
If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind before your flight, Terminal 2 offers several lounges for your convenience.
The United Club Lounge is located in Concourse G and provides a comfortable space to enjoy complimentary snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
If you’re a member of an airline’s frequent flyer program or have a certain credit card, you may also have access to other lounges in Terminal 2.
Check with your airline or credit card provider to see if you qualify for lounge access.
Terminal 3 Map and Guide
Concourses and Airlines in Terminal 3
Terminal 3 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport is home to a number of concourses and airlines, making it a bustling hub for travelers.
The main concourses in Terminal 3 are Concourse G and Concourse H. Concourse G primarily serves international flights, while Concourse H is used for domestic flights.
Some of the major airlines operating out of Terminal 3 include American Airlines, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific.
With a wide range of airlines and destinations, Terminal 3 offers a convenient and efficient travel experience for passengers.
Food and Shopping in Terminal 3
Terminal 3 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport offers a variety of dining options and shopping outlets to satisfy the needs of travelers.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or some last-minute souvenirs, Terminal 3 has you covered.
Food options in Terminal 3 range from fast food chains like McDonald’s and Subway to sit-down restaurants like Tortas Frontera and Wolfgang Puck.
There are also numerous coffee shops and grab-and-go options for those in a hurry.
When it comes to shopping, Terminal 3 boasts a wide array of stores selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and books. Popular retailers include Hudson, Swatch, and Best Buy Express.
Lounges in Terminal 3
For those looking for a more comfortable and relaxing experience at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Terminal 3 is home to several lounges.
These lounges offer amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and business facilities.
One of the most well-known lounges in Terminal 3 is the Admirals Club, operated by American Airlines.
This lounge offers a quiet and peaceful environment for travelers to unwind before their flights.
Other lounges in Terminal 3 include the United Club and the Swissport Lounge. Each lounge has its own unique features and offerings, providing passengers with a range of options to suit their needs.
To access the lounges in Terminal 3, passengers can either purchase a day pass or have access through their airline’s frequent flyer program.
Terminal 5 Map and Guide
Concourses and Airlines in Terminal 5
If you find yourself in Terminal 5 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, you’ll be pleased to know that it is home to several international airlines. The terminal is divided into three concourses: M, M1, and M2.
Concourse M houses the majority of the airlines, including Air France, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific. Concourse M1 is home to Emirates and Etihad Airways, while Concourse M2 is where you’ll find Turkish Airlines.
With a wide range of airlines operating in Terminal 5, you’ll have plenty of options for your international travel needs.
Food and Shopping in Terminal 5
When it comes to dining and shopping options, Terminal 5 won’t disappoint. From quick bites to sit-down restaurants, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quick snack, head to Pret A Manger or Starbucks.
For a more substantial meal, visit Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless or Tocco for some delicious Italian cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for shopping, you’ll find a variety of stores offering everything from luxury brands to travel essentials.
Some popular shops include Duty Free Americas, MAC Cosmetics, and Michael Kors. So whether you’re looking to satisfy your hunger or pick up some last-minute souvenirs, Terminal 5 has you covered.
Lounges in Terminal 5
If you’re a frequent traveler or simply want to relax before your flight, Terminal 5 offers several lounges for your convenience.
The Admirals Club, operated by American Airlines, provides a comfortable space to unwind and enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages.
The Swiss Lounge is another great option, offering a quiet atmosphere and a selection of Swiss delicacies.
If you’re a member of Priority Pass, you can also access the Air France-KLM Lounge, which features a variety of amenities including showers and a business center.
So whether you’re in need of a place to work or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the terminal, Terminal 5’s lounges have got you covered.
Conclusion
With its multiple terminals and concourses, Chicago O’Hare Airport can seem like a maze at first.
By using the maps, guides, and tips in this article, you can now expertly navigate O’Hare on foot during your layover or delay.
Knowing the airport’s layout, transit options, and amenities will let you stretch your legs and make the most of your extra time there.
