- 5
- (1 reviews)
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago stands as a bustling aviation hub, renowned for its sprawling layout and four distinct passenger terminals: Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5. Each terminal carries its own character, serving a mix of travelers, airlines, and destinations with a blend of functionality and flair.
- Terminal 1 is the sleek domain of United Airlines, a masterpiece of glass and steel shaped by architect Helmut Jahn. Split into Concourses B and C, it boasts 54 gates in total. Concourse B flows seamlessly from the main structure, while Concourse C, reachable via a mesmerizing underground walkway bathed in neon lights and sound, feels like a journey within a journey. The terminal hums with activity, offering travelers a variety of dining spots, boutique shops, and exclusive lounges like the United Club and Polaris Lounge.
- Terminal 2, more modest in scale, houses Concourses E and F with 41 gates combined. It’s a practical hub for domestic flights, catering to airlines like Delta and United. Though smaller, it punches above its weight with cozy eateries, a handful of stores, and a United Club lounge, making it a favorite for those seeking efficiency over extravagance.
- Terminal 3 reigns as the airport’s grandest, a sprawling expanse with four concourses—G, H, K, and L—totaling 80 gates. It’s the beating heart of American Airlines’ operations, though it also welcomes a mix of low-cost carriers and regional flights. The terminal buzzes with life, from fast-food joints to upscale dining, alongside shops and an American Airlines Admirals Club. Its size can be daunting, but its energy is unmatched.
- Terminal 5, the international gateway, stands apart both physically and in purpose. With Concourse M and 21 gates, it handles most of O’Hare’s global traffic, serving airlines like British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Turkish Airlines. Its airy design, infused with natural light, contrasts with its role as a thoroughfare for customs and long-haul travelers. A diverse food court, duty-free shops, and lounges like the Swissport Oasis cater to the worldly crowd.
Terminal 1
is the main hub for United Airlines and also serves international flights operated by Lufthansa and All Nippon Airways. It includes Concourses B and C with 52 gates in total. The underground tunnel connecting B and C is famous for its neon-lit art installation “Sky’s the Limit.” Passengers can transfer between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 without leaving the secured area.
Travel Tips: Terminal 1 is quite large, so allow extra time to walk between gates. The moving walkways in the underground tunnel make the walk between Concourses B and C more pleasant, and the tunnel itself is a bit of an attraction. If arriving on an international flight with Lufthansa, you’ll go through immigration in Terminal 5 before returning to Terminal 1 via the Airport Transit System (ATS), which is free and operates 24/7. Once back, you’ll need to go through TSA security again, so plan your timing accordingly.
Where to Eat: Don’t miss Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless (Concourse B) for fresh Mexican tortas, hand-smashed guacamole, and local ingredients. Berghoff Café (Concourse C) offers Chicago-style sandwiches and beer from one of the city’s oldest family-owned breweries. Beaudevin Wine Bar (Concourse C) is perfect for a glass of wine and charcuterie before your flight. You’ll also find Starbucks, Garrett Popcorn, and Farmer’s Fridge vending machines if you’re in a hurry.
Where to Relax: United Club lounges are available near Gates B6, B18, and C16, with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, beverages, and business amenities. The luxurious United Polaris Lounge near Gate C18 offers showers, à la carte dining, and quiet workspaces exclusively for international business-class passengers. An XpresSpa near Gate B12 is a convenient place for massages or beauty services. Mother’s Rooms are available for nursing mothers, and there are many comfortable seating areas with power outlets throughout the terminal.
Terminal 2
handles regional flights for United Express and carriers like Air Canada, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines. It features Concourses E and F with 41 gates. Though more compact than Terminal 1, it connects easily to Terminals 1 and 3 post-security, making it a good transit point for connecting flights.
Travel Tips: Space can be tight, so allow time for security and finding your gate, especially during peak hours. Terminal 2 is best suited for short connections between domestic flights. For international transfers, expect to use the ATS train to/from Terminal 5 and clear security again. There are fewer restrooms in Terminal 2 than in other terminals, so plan accordingly. Gate areas tend to get crowded quickly, so secure your spot early if traveling with kids or needing accessible seating.
Where to Eat: Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi Bar in the main hall is perfect for sushi, sashimi, and sake in a modern setting. Stanley’s Blackhawks Kitchen & Tap (Concourse E) offers burgers, wings, and beer in a sports-bar atmosphere with Chicago Blackhawks memorabilia. Home Run Inn Pizza (Concourse F) is a favorite for Chicago-style thin crust pizza. There’s also La Tapenade Mediterranean Café and Dunkin’ Donuts for lighter fare and coffee options.
Where to Relax: United Club (near Gate F9) is ideal for a quiet break with snacks, drinks, and business facilities. There’s a small USO lounge upstairs for military travelers, and an interfaith chapel on the mezzanine provides a quiet space for prayer or reflection. Kids on the Fly (near Gate F1) is an interactive play area developed by the Chicago Children’s Museum—great for families with young children. The terminal also has charging stations and seating areas near most gates, though availability can vary during busy periods.
Terminal 3
This terminal is the main base for American Airlines and also serves oneworld partners like Iberia, British Airways, and Japan Airlines. Terminal 3 has four concourses: G, H, K, and L, with a total of 80 gates. It’s known for its central rotunda and wide food and shopping options. The terminal layout can be sprawling, but it’s well-marked and walkable thanks to numerous directional signs.
Travel Tips: It’s a long walk between Concourse G and L, so use moving walkways where available. Follow ceiling signs to navigate between lettered gate areas. The rotunda area between Concourses H and K is a convenient central hub for food, shopping, and rest. If flying internationally, some American flights may require immigration processing in Terminal 5. Allow extra time for this transition and take note of any announcements from your airline.
Where to Eat: Tortas Frontera (Concourse K) is a must-try, serving freshly made Mexican sandwiches with bold flavors. Publican Tavern (Concourse K) is a gastropub offering locally inspired dishes, craft beers, and a cozy setting. Chicago Cubs Bar & Grill in the rotunda offers sports-themed dining and hearty American fare. Additional options include La Tapenade Mediterranean Café, Chili’s Too, and multiple coffee shops like Starbucks and Dunkin’.
Where to Relax: Admirals Clubs are located in Concourses G and L, and the Flagship Lounge near H/K is ideal for premium passengers, featuring gourmet meals, showers, and workspaces. The yoga room in the rotunda mezzanine is free to access and offers mats and a quiet environment for stretching. Military personnel can visit the USO Lounge upstairs. Terminal Getaway Spa (Concourse H) provides massages, manicures, and other wellness treatments. Most gate areas have ample seating and charging ports.
Terminal 5
is O’Hare’s international terminal, located separately from Terminals 1–3. It serves international airlines as well as Delta, Frontier, and Southwest. Concourse M features 35 gates and underwent recent renovations to expand services and improve amenities. Terminal 5 is where all international arrivals clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Travel Tips: Transfers between Terminal 5 and others require the ATS train, which runs frequently and is free. After clearing immigration, travelers connecting to a domestic flight must re-clear security. Allow extra time for check-in and security lines, especially in the morning and evening when most international flights operate. Restrooms and food options are plentiful post-security, but limited pre-security.
Where to Eat: Hub 51 (Gate M16) offers a variety of burgers, salads, and American comfort food. Big Bowl (Gate M11) serves up flavorful Thai and Chinese dishes like pad Thai and Mongolian beef. Tortas Frontera (Gate M12) continues its reputation here with freshly prepared tortas and guacamole. For something quick, visit Burger King or Starbucks. You’ll also find a variety of snack shops, grab-and-go stations, and bars throughout the concourse.
Where to Relax: Delta Sky Club is one of the most popular lounges here, with hot meals, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and showers. The Air France/KLM Lounge and SAS Lounge are also available depending on airline and class of service. Swissport Lounge offers access for Priority Pass holders and some international business-class passengers. Relaxation areas with comfortable chairs and charging outlets are spread throughout the terminal, and the modern design allows for natural light and spacious waiting areas.
- 5/5
- (1 reviews)
07.04.2025 at 3:21 pm