Midway International Airport

Midway Airport (MDW) is not just an alternative to the giant O'Hare, but a true favourite among Chicago residents thanks to its convenience and cosy atmosphere. Located much closer to the business centre, it allows travellers to save precious time on the road and avoid endless queues. This historic aviation hub, named after the famous Battle of Midway, today serves as a major hub for many low-cost carriers and offers excellent service without unnecessary fuss.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Midway is its location. It is situated just 16 kilometres from the central district, The Loop, making it an ideal choice for those who want to immediately immerse themselves in the rhythm of the big city. Reaching the centre is quick and affordable thanks to the direct metro line (Orange Line), the station of which is connected to the terminal by a covered walkway.

Despite its smaller size compared to neighbouring O'Hare, Midway is renowned for its efficiency. Here, security checks and baggage claim generally proceed faster, and navigation through the single terminal with three concourses is intuitive even for inexperienced tourists. The airport is particularly popular among passengers of budget airlines, offering a wide network of routes across the USA and the Caribbean.

The gastronomic component of Midway deserves special attention. As part of a modernisation programme, many establishments representing local Chicago cuisine have opened here. Travellers can try famous Chicago hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and beverages from local producers without leaving the terminal building.

• Official Airport Website: www.flychicago.com/midway
• Information Desk Phone: +1 773-838-0600
• Airport Address: 5700 S Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60638, USA
• Email: A direct public email address for passengers is not provided; for inquiries, it is recommended to use the "Customer Service" feedback form on the official website.
• Airport Social Media: Current news and updates are published on the official accounts of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) under the handle @flychicago.
• Lost and Found Information: If items were left in public areas of the terminal, contact the communication centre at +1 773-838-0656. To search for items left on board an aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Tourist information desks are located in the ticketing and baggage claim areas; staff are ready to assist with navigation and answer questions daily.

Thanks to its convenient location just 15 kilometres from the centre, getting to Midway Airport is much easier and faster than to many other major US aviation hubs. Chicago's transport system is excellently developed, offering travellers a choice between the speed of the metro, the comfort of a taxi, and the flexibility of a rented car.

Public Transport: CTA (Metro and Buses)

The most popular, budget-friendly, and reliable method is the famous Chicago metro ("L"). The airport is served by the Orange Line. The station is located literally a few steps from the terminal building and is connected to it by a covered walkway with travelators, so you won't have to go outside with luggage.

• Travel Time: The trip to the central business district (The Loop) takes about 20–25 minutes.
• Cost: A standard ticket costs approximately 2.50–5 dollars (depending on the ticket type and place of purchase). Tickets can be purchased at machines at the station.
• Buses: For trips to neighbouring districts, you can use CTA buses (routes 54B, 55, 59, 62H, and others). The stop is located at the Midway Transportation Center.

Taxis and Transfers

If you have heavy luggage or are travelling with family, a taxi will be an excellent choice. Official taxi stands are located on the lower level of the terminal (curbside), near the exit from the baggage claim area. Ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are also available, with a designated pickup zone.

A trip to the city centre (Downtown) usually takes from 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. The average cost of a taxi ride is 35–50 dollars, excluding tips. Ridesharing may be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on demand (surge pricing).

Car Rental

Many rental companies operate at the airport. All rental offices are consolidated in a separate complex — the Rental Car Facility, located at 5150 W. 55th Street. To get there, you must use the free 24-hour shuttle, which departs from exit No. 2 on the lower level (arrivals area). The shuttle ride takes about 15 minutes.

Parking

The airport offers several parking options, from premium to budget:

• Terminal Garage: A covered multi-level car park adjoining the terminal. Ideal for short-term parking or dropping off/picking up passengers (hourly payment).
• Economy Garage & Lots: A more economical option for long-term stays. These car parks are located slightly further away but are served by free buses running to the terminal every 10–15 minutes.

Neighbouring Airports and Transfers

Chicago is a major aviation hub, and sometimes tourists require a transfer between airports. The main neighbour and "big brother" of Midway is the gigantic O'Hare International Airport, located approximately 26 km away. There is no direct express between them. For transfers, it is most convenient to use a taxi or ride-hailing services (travel time is about an hour). A budget alternative is the CTA metro, but this requires a transfer in the city centre from the Orange Line to the Blue Line, which can take up to two hours.

If you plan to travel around the Great Lakes region, other hubs may also be useful. For example, General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee is located 120 km to the north and is often used as an alternative for residents of Chicago's northern suburbs. Within a radius of 110–175 km, there are also the regional South Bend Airport and the small Purdue University Airport, which may be convenient for visiting the respective university towns.

Unlike the confusing labyrinths of giant aviation hubs, the structure of Midway Airport is notable for its enviable compactness and simplicity. There is one main terminal functioning here, which serves all domestic and international flights. This "all under one roof" concept saves passengers from the need to use trains or buses to move between gates — any boarding gate can be reached on foot.

Terminal Layout and Zoning

The airport building is divided into three main levels, each performing its own function to ensure a logical flow of passengers:

• Lower Level (Arrivals): Passengers arrive here. This is where the Baggage Claim area with carousels, information desks, and exits to ground transport (taxis, shuttles) are located.
• Ticketing Level: Airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks are located here. After check-in, passengers proceed along a wide walkway to the security screening area.
• Mezzanine and Sterile Area: After passing security control, you enter the "heart" of the airport — the zone where three Concourses with boarding gates converge.

Concourses: A, B, and C

The terminal branches into three "arms", called concourses. All of them are connected by a central atrium (Central Market), where the majority of shops and restaurants are concentrated. This is an ideal place for meeting or waiting, as it offers access to all gates.

• Concourse A: The longest corridor, housing gates A1 through A19. A significant portion of Southwest Airlines flights are served here, as well as some other carriers. At the end of the concourse, there is a separate food court.
• Concourse B: Located perpendicular to the entrance. It includes gates B1–B26. This is the busiest part of the airport, also serving as a main base for Southwest.
• Concourse C: A small and cosy sector with gates C1–C3. It is located slightly to the side, to the right of the security area, and serves regional flights and a smaller number of passengers.

Check-in and Screening Procedures

All passengers pass through a single centralised security checkpoint, located after the check-in area. Thanks to the recent modernisation and expansion of the "security bridge", throughput capacity has significantly increased.

On ordinary days, the process of passing control takes from 15 to 20 minutes. However, during peak hours (morning departures from 5 to 8 am and holidays), waiting times may increase to 30–45 minutes. The airport is equipped with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes for expedited formalities.

Navigation Recommendations

Orienting yourself in Midway is very easy. The main landmark is the Central Market. As soon as you pass security, you enter this space. If your gate is in Concourse C, you need to turn right immediately. For Concourses A and B, move straight ahead.

Distances here are manageable: the walk from the security zone to the furthest gate (for example, A19 or B26) will take about 10–12 minutes at a leisurely pace. Travelators (moving walkways) are available only in the long corridors of the concourses, which speeds up movement. If you have a transfer at Midway, you will not have to leave the "sterile" zone — transferring between any gates takes a maximum of 15 minutes, making this airport one of the most convenient for connecting flights in the USA.

The history of Midway Airport is a fascinating chronicle of ups, downs, and incredible revival. Its journey began in 1923, when the first runway was equipped on a small plot of land used for airmail delivery. In 1927, it received official status and the name "Chicago Municipal Airport", immediately becoming an important node for the nascent civil aviation of the USA.

The airport acquired its current name in 1949. The Chicago City Council renamed it in honour of the heroic Battle of Midway during World War II, to immortalise the memory of the American fleet's victory in the Pacific. By the end of the 1950s, Midway reached the peak of its first wave of popularity, holding the title of the busiest airport in the world. In those years, it was a true "crossroads of the world", accepting more than 10 million passengers annually, which was a fantastic figure for that era.

However, the advent of the jet age became a serious test for the airport. Midway's short runways and its location within dense urban development did not allow it to accept huge liners like the Boeing 707. Airlines began massively transferring flights to the new, spacious O'Hare Airport. By 1962, the once noisy hub had practically emptied, turning into a "ghost town" for almost two decades.

A second wind came in 1978 following the passing of the Airline Deregulation Act. Low fares and a convenient location attracted budget airlines. The real saviour of the airport was Southwest Airlines, which made Midway its key hub. Passenger traffic began to grow rapidly, and the old infrastructure ceased to cope with the load.

The most massive transformation in the airport's history occurred in the early 2000s. Since Midway is literally "squeezed" within city blocks, engineers had to demonstrate miracles of ingenuity. In 2001, a new terminal opened, which was built not on free land, but literally over Cicero Avenue. The bridge over the busy highway allowed for a significant expansion of the ticketing and security areas without going beyond the historical territory.

Interesting Facts and Achievements:

• "The Busiest Square Mile": The historical area of the airport is exactly one square mile (about 260 hectares). Given the number of flights served, Midway was long considered the most efficiently used aviation space in the world.
• Architectural Heritage: During reconstructions, the terminal was decorated with works by famous artists and sculptors as part of the "Art in the Airport" programme, turning waiting for a flight into a cultural walk.
• Unique Geometry: If you look at a map, the airport represents an almost perfect square, and its runways form a characteristic pattern in the shape of two intersecting "X"s, which allows pilots to use different headings depending on the wind, despite the tight space.

Despite its compact dimensions, Midway Airport offers passengers a full range of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. Following a large-scale modernisation programme, emphasis was placed on local flair, so staying in the terminal resembles a walk through the cosy neighbourhoods of Chicago rather than sitting in a faceless hall.

Restaurants and Shops: A Taste of Chicago

The main pride of Midway is its gastronomic zone, concentrated in the "Central Market". There are practically no standard chain fast-food outlets here; instead, favourite local brands are widely represented. This is an excellent chance to try famous Chicago deep-dish pizza or a classic hot dog at Gold Coast Dogs without going into the city. For those interested in local beverages, establishments featuring products from local producers, such as Goose Island, are available.

Shopping here is oriented towards buying souvenirs and travel goods. A mandatory stop for many tourists is the Garrett Popcorn Shops kiosk. The mix of caramel and cheese popcorn ("The Chicago Mix") is a cult souvenir that passengers often take home as a gift. The terminal also features electronics stores, bookshops, and boutiques with Chicago sports team merchandise.

Lounges and VIP Services

Unlike major international hubs, Midway did not have business lounges for the general public for a long time, as the airport is oriented towards quick transfers for low-cost carriers. However, the situation is changing:

• The Club MDW: Located in the Central Market (near the entrance to Concourse B). This lounge is available for Priority Pass holders and passengers willing to pay for a single visit. It offers snacks, drinks, and a quiet atmosphere for work or relaxation.
• USO Center: A specialised lounge for military personnel and their families, located in Concourse C (before the security zone).

Connectivity and Finance

Free unlimited Wi-Fi operates throughout the airport. To connect, choose the network provided by the airport (usually via Boingo) and watch a short advertisement. Charging gadgets will also not be a problem: most seats in the waiting areas at gates are equipped with power outlets and USB ports. ATMs are located in both the public and "sterile" zones, however, full-service currency exchange points are rare here due to the predominantly domestic route network, so it is better to prepare cash in advance.

Services for Families with Children

Midway is friendly to little travellers. For nursing mothers, special Mamava pods are provided — private capsules for breastfeeding with comfortable seats and power outlets, located in all concourses. Spacious family restrooms are also available.

Accessibility and Medical Assistance

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with disabilities (ADA compliant). All toilets, lifts, and walkways are accessible for wheelchairs. If you require assistance, it must be requested in advance through your airline. Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are installed within the terminal, and for emergency assistance, you can approach any police officer or information desk.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are no hotels directly inside the terminal, but thanks to its location within the city limits, the choice of accommodation is huge. Just a few minutes' drive away is the so-called "Midway Hotel Center" — a cluster of hotels from popular chains (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt Place, etc.), located along the southern part of Cicero Avenue. Most of them provide free 24-hour shuttles that pick up guests from exit No. 2 on the lower level of the terminal.

Business Services

There are no specialised conference rooms inside the terminal, but business travellers can use workstations with desks and power outlets, which are equipped in quiet zones of the concourses (for example, in Concourse A). For conducting full meetings, it is better to use the services of business centres in nearby hotels.

The dining scene at Midway Airport (MDW) is a pleasant surprise for travellers. Unlike many transport hubs filled with faceless international chains, Midway has bet on local Chicago brands. Here you can take a full culinary tour of the city without leaving the terminal limits, which is especially valuable during long layovers.

Location and Accessibility

It is important to remember the main rule of dining at Midway: do not put off lunch until going into the city if you are hungry, and do not look for restaurants before passing security. The vast majority of establishments are located in the "sterile" zone (airside), after the security check.

• Landside (Pre-security): The choice is extremely limited. Here you can find only a few coffee shops and small kiosks with snacks in the baggage claim area.
• Airside (Post-security): A true gastronomic paradise is concentrated in the Central Market — a triangular atrium where all three concourses meet. From here, restaurants branch out deep into corridors A and B.

A Taste of Chicago: What to Try

If you want to feel the spirit of the city, pay attention to these iconic establishments that have become calling cards of the airport:

• Billy Goat Tavern (Central Market): A legendary tavern, known throughout America thanks to a sketch on the show Saturday Night Live. Here they order the famous "Cheezborger" for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Be prepared for simple but hearty food and an old Chicago atmosphere.
• Harry Caray’s Shortstop (Central Market): Named after the city's beloved baseball commentator, this restaurant offers classic American cuisine, excellent steaks, and Italian dishes. There is also a bar with a wide selection of beverages.
• Garrett Popcorn Shops (Concourse A and B): The scent of caramel will lead you here itself. Be sure to take a bag of Garrett Mix on your flight — a signature blend of sweet caramel and salty cheese popcorn. This is the most popular edible souvenir from Chicago.
• Gold Coast Dogs (Central Market): A place serving authentic Chicago-style hot dogs. Remember the local rule: no ketchup, only mustard, onions, pickled cucumbers, and tomatoes. (Note: Authentic Chicago hot dogs are typically all-beef).

Quick Snacks and Coffee

For those rushing to board, the airport provides many "grab-and-go" options:

• Big Shoulders Coffee (Concourse A): An excellent alternative to mass coffee chains. This is a local roasting company offering quality coffee and fresh pastries.
• Nuts on Clark (Central Market): Another Chicago favourite, offering freshly roasted nuts and popcorn. Ideal for a snack on the plane.
• Potbelly Sandwich Shop (Concourse B): A well-known chain born in Chicago, famous for hot sandwiches, soups, and milkshakes. Service here is very fast.

Beverages and Relaxation

To relax before your flight, visit Reilly’s Daughter (Concourse A) — an Irish pub with a friendly atmosphere, or Goose Island Beer Company (Concourse B), featuring beverages from perhaps the city's most famous brewery.

Special Dietary Options (Vegetarian, Healthy, Gluten-Free)

Midway keeps up with the times, offering options for various diets:

• Farmer’s Fridge: A unique feature of the airport — "smart" vending machines selling fresh salads, bowls, and yoghurts in jars. This is perhaps the healthiest, fastest, and most accessible option for vegetarians. Machines are located at several points in the terminal.
• Tabo Sushi (Central Market): Offers sushi and rolls, including vegetarian options and gluten-free dishes.
• Restaurants: At Harry Caray’s and other full-service restaurants, you can request a gluten-free menu or modify dishes (for example, removing the bun from a burger).

Opening Hours and Prices

Most establishments open an hour before the first departure (around 4:30–5:00 am) and close after the last departure (around 10:00 pm). Note that after 9 pm, the choice of open spots may decrease sharply.

Price Range:

• Coffee and pastries: 5–8 $
• Sandwiches and fast food: 12–18 $
• Full lunch in a restaurant with a drink: 25–40 $ per person.

Prices at Midway correspond to the standard level of American airports ("street price" plus 10–15%), but the quality of food here is generally above average thanks to the emphasis on local products.

Travelling through Midway Airport (MDW) is usually calmer than through the giant O'Hare, but there are nuances here too. To ensure your departure goes smoothly and your wait is comfortable, use these proven tips to save stress and money.

Optimal Arrival Time

Midway is famous for its efficiency, but do not underestimate morning queues at security. The airport is very popular for morning business flights and holiday departures.

• Domestic Flights: It is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure. If your flight departs in the "peak window" from 5:00 to 7:30 am, it is better to add another 30 minutes.
• International Flights: Arrive 3 hours early. Although there are fewer international destinations here, document verification procedures may take time.

Check-in and Screening Secrets

The central security checkpoint at Midway is sometimes called a "bottleneck" as it serves all three concourses. However, the queue moves quite quickly.

• Electronic Boarding Passes: Download your airline's app in advance. Phone scanners are actively used at Midway, which is faster than printing paper passes at a kiosk.
• TSA PreCheck: If you have this status, look for special lanes to the right of the main flow. They work faster, and you will not have to remove your shoes.
• Shoes and Electronics: In standard screening lanes in the US, you are required to remove your shoes. Laptops and large tablets must be taken out of bags and placed in separate trays.

Seat Selection Strategy (The Southwest Factor)

Since the dominant carrier at Midway is Southwest Airlines, it is important to remember their unique policy: they do not have assigned seats. You occupy any free seat upon boarding.

• Tip: To sit together with family or by the window, check in online exactly 24 hours before departure (to the second!). The earlier you check in, the higher your boarding group will be (A, B, or C).
• For other airlines (Delta, Porter, Volaris), standard seat selection rules apply when booking.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Security rules here strictly correspond to TSA (Transportation Security Administration) standards.

• Liquids: The 3-1-1 rule applies. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and all fit together in one transparent 1-litre bag.
• Food: Solid food (sandwiches, nuts, popcorn) is allowed. If you bought the famous Chicago Garrett popcorn as a souvenir, it is permitted in hand luggage, but you may be asked to take the tins out for additional inspection.
• Prohibited: Sharp objects, liquids over 100 ml (even water and soups), and sports equipment (bats, sticks) — all this must be checked in as luggage.

For Transit Passengers

Midway is one of the most convenient airports for transfers in the US thanks to its compactness.

• Inside the Airport: You do not need to use trains or shuttles. The walk from the furthest gate of Concourse A to the end of Concourse B will take no more than 15–20 minutes. The minimum comfortable connection time is 45–60 minutes.
• Changing Airports (MDW ↔ ORD): If your transfer involves changing airports to O'Hare, allow a minimum of 4–5 hours between flights. The journey by taxi can take from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, and by metro — about 2 hours.

Customs Control

If you arrive on an international flight (for example, from Mexico or Jamaica), you will pass passport control in a separate area on the lower level. The procedure is standard for the US: fingerprinting and photographing. It is strictly forbidden to bring in fresh fruit, meat, seeds, and plants — this carries a large fine.

How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Do not buy expensive water before security. Take an empty reusable bottle with you. Each concourse has stations with free filtered drinking water (Bottle Filling Stations) immediately after the security zone.
• Transport: The most obvious way to save is to use the metro (CTA Orange Line). A ticket costs about 2.50 $, whereas a taxi to the centre will cost 40–50 $. Trains are clean and safe, especially during the daytime.
• Charging Gadgets: Do not spend money on external batteries in kiosks. Most seats at gates in Midway are equipped with power outlets and USB ports.

Actions During Flight Delays

Chicago is known for its changeable weather, and delays due to snowfalls are not uncommon in winter. If you are stuck at the airport:

1. Do not panic and download the app: Use your airline's app for rebooking. This is often faster than standing in a queue at the agent's desk.
2. Seek Comfort: If the wait drags on, head to Concourse C (there is a yoga room there, which serves as a quiet space where you can stretch, rest, or pray in silence) or visit The Club MDW lounge (available for a fee or via loyalty cards).
3. Food as Comfort: Use this time to try local cuisine. Queues at popular places like Billy Goat Tavern can be long, so order food in advance via mobile delivery apps inside the airport (such as GoEat), if such an option is available, to pick up your order without queuing.