When is the cheapest time to fly to Chicago?
The cheapest flights to Chicago are in winter, when the temperatures fall below freezing and the frozen lake becomes the centre for all kinds of wintery activities. If you can handle the chill, it's a fabulous time to visit and enjoy festive activities while being great value for money!
When is the best time to visit Chicago?
The best time to visit Chicago is in the summer, from June to August, when activities on the lake are in full swing and the average 29°C temperature is perfect for enjoying it. This is peak season for Chicago holidays though, so prices are higher.
Spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) offer pleasant 22-25°C temperatures, fewer crowds and cheaper prices on flights and accommodation.
Can you fly direct to Chicago from the UK?
Yes, you can fly direct to Chicago from London Heathrow or Manchester.
Which UK airports have indirect flights to Chicago?
Indirect flights to Chicago usually involve a stopover in major hubs like London, Amsterdam or the US, depending on the airline. Flights to Chicago with a stopover are available from most UK airports including Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and London City.
How long does it take to fly to Chicago?
A direct, nonstop flight takes 8-9 hours. Flights with stopovers will be longer, depending on the route and layover length.
Things to do in Chicago
One of the most popular sightseeing tours for visitors taking flights to Chicago is a river tour, by steamer or even by canoe, of the imposing riverside architecture. Dinner cruises, water sports and luxury lake cruises also top the bill for the city’s unique attractions.
Where can I fly to in Chicago?
Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD)
Most flights to Chicago from the UK will land at O’Hare Airport, which is 17 miles to the northwest of Chicago. In O’Hare Airport, transport between terminals (ATS) is a free, 24-hour rail system operating between the domestic and the international terminal, parking facilities, the Kiss 'n' Fly drop-off point, and the PACE Bus stop.
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
There are no direct flights from the UK to Chicago Midway Airport, but indirect single and return flights are offered by Virgin Atlantic, Delta and Air France.
Getting to the city from O'Hare Airport
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the most economical option and the CTA Blue Line trains offer 24-hour service. The CTA Blue Line runs from the lower level of Terminal 2, which is accessible on foot. There are also regular shuttles and buses running between O’Hare Airport and the city centre, and direct to Midway Airport. From Midway Airport the CTA Orange Line operates from Midway to the city centre.
Do you need a visa to visit Chicago?
Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. You should complete an online pre-registration form on the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) website, before you travel. The US Customs and Border Patrol recommends that you do this at least 72 hours before departure.
