Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Getting Around

How to get to and from Chicago Midway International Airport — taxis, public transport, shuttles and car rental.

Transport Options at MDW

Chicago Midway International Airport is connected to Chicago and the wider United States transport network by multiple ground transport options.

Rail & Metro

CTA Orange Line runs directly from Midway station (inside the airport) to the Loop in about 20–25 minutes; fare is the standard CTA rate (no airport surcharge, unlike O'Hare's Blue Line stop). Service runs roughly 4am–1am — there is no 24-hour train to Midway.

Bus & Shuttle

Several CTA bus routes also serve the airport for local connections, though the Orange Line is the faster option downtown.

Taxi

Metered taxis queue curbside outside baggage claim.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft pick up from a designated curbside area.

Car Rental

An on-site rental car facility serves all major agencies.

Insider tip

If you're landing late, check the Orange Line's last-train time before you count on it — unlike the Blue Line to O'Hare, Midway's rail service doesn't run all night, so a late arrival may mean taxi or rideshare instead.

Transport routes, fares and operators change frequently. Verify current options on the official Chicago Midway International Airport website before travel.

Pre-Book Your Transfer

Skip the taxi queue. Book a private transfer from MDW to Chicago in advance and have a driver waiting when you land.

Recommended · Airport Transfer
MDWChicago Transfer

Private and shared airport transfers — fixed price, no meter surprises. Driver meets you in arrivals.

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Car Rental at MDW

Exploring United States beyond Chicago? Renting a car at the airport gives you maximum flexibility from the moment you land.

Recommended · Car Rental
Rent a Car at MDW

Compare rates from major and local car rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.

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Ground Transport Tips for MDW

Only use official taxi ranks or pre-booked apps at Chicago Midway International Airport. Avoid unofficial drivers approaching you in arrivals.
If a rail or metro connection exists, it is usually the fastest and most reliable option during rush hour.
Allow extra time for ground transport during peak hours. Chicago city traffic can significantly extend journey times.
Download offline maps for Chicago before landing — useful if your data connection is slow on arrival.
If travelling with heavy luggage, a private transfer or taxi is often more practical than public transport.
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