Chicago Midway International Airport | Airport Transit Travel

Chicago Midway International Airport

Country: United States

City: Chicago, Illinois

Location: Southwest side of Chicago, 10 miles (16 km) from the Loop

Climate: Temperate continental

Overview:

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is a major commercial airport serving Chicago and the surrounding region. It is the second busiest airport in Chicago, after Chicago O'Hare International Airport. Midway handles both domestic and international flights.

Tourist Attractions in Chicago:

• The Art Institute of Chicago: One of the world's leading art museums, featuring an extensive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern art.
• Millennium Park: A large, public park in downtown Chicago, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (the "Bean") and the Crown Fountain.
• Navy Pier: A popular tourist attraction on the shores of Lake Michigan, featuring rides, attractions, restaurants, and shops.
• Wrigley Field: The historic home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team.
• Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the oldest and largest zoos in the country, featuring over 1,200 animals from around the world.
• Magnificent Mile: A stretch of North Michigan Avenue known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• The Field Museum: A natural history museum with an extensive collection of exhibits on dinosaurs, animals, and cultures.
• Shedd Aquarium: The largest indoor aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, featuring over 32,000 animals from around the globe.
• 360 Chicago Observation Deck: The John Hancock Center's observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower): The tallest building in the United States, with an observation deck that provides stunning city views.

Must-See Tourist Attractions near Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Located just 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Chicago Midway International Airport is a convenient gateway to some of the city's most popular attractions. Whether you have a layover or are looking for a quick escape, here are a few highly recommended places to visit:

Garfield Park Conservatory

• Distance from MDW: 4 miles
• This lush botanical paradise features a vast collection of plants from around the world, including tropical rainforests, deserts, and Mediterranean gardens. Its iconic domes are a sight to behold, and you can easily spend several hours exploring its serene surroundings.

Little Village

• Distance from MDW: 3 miles
• Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Chicago's largest Mexican-American neighborhood. Visit colorful shops, savor authentic Mexican cuisine, and admire eye-catching murals.

Shedd Aquarium

• Distance from MDW: 10 miles
• One of the largest and most comprehensive aquariums in the world, Shedd Aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals from around the globe. Encounter penguins, sharks, beluga whales, and more in a breathtaking underwater setting.

Field Museum of Natural History

• Distance from MDW: 10 miles
• A world-renowned museum dedicated to the natural world, Field Museum boasts an incredible collection of fossils, dinosaurs, meteorites, and cultural artifacts. Don't miss the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex, Sue.

Chicago Landmark Tour

• Distance from MDW: 10 miles
• Embark on a guided boat tour that showcases Chicago's iconic landmarks, including the Willis Tower, Cloud Gate (the "Bean"), and Magnificent Mile. Admire the city's stunning skyline from a unique perspective.

Additional Tips:

• Midway Airport offers free shuttle service to the Orange Line, which connects to downtown Chicago.
• Consider renting a car for easy access to attractions farther from the airport.
• Allow ample time for security and check-in if you're returning to the airport after your visit.
• Check attraction websites for operating hours and ticket prices before your visit.

Family Adventure near Midway International Airport

Our family recently enjoyed a wonderful weekend getaway near Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). Here are the highlights of our experiences:

Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Midway Airport

We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites, which is conveniently located just minutes from MDW. The hotel staff was friendly and accommodating, and our room was clean and comfortable. The complimentary breakfast included a variety of hot and cold items, perfect for fueling up for a day of activities.

Museum of Science and Industry

A short drive from the airport, we visited the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI). This world-renowned museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits, perfect for all ages. Our kids loved exploring the transportation exhibits, including the U-505 submarine and the Boeing 727 jetliner.

Garfield Park Conservatory

For a change of pace, we checked out the Garfield Park Conservatory. This beautiful botanical garden features a variety of indoor and outdoor gardens, showcasing plants from around the world. We especially enjoyed the Desert House, with its collection of cacti and succulents.

Water Tower Place

For shopping and entertainment, we headed to Water Tower Place. This iconic shopping mall offers a mix of high-end retailers, restaurants, and a movie theater. We found something for everyone, including clothes for the kids, a meal at the Cheesecake Factory, and a movie at AMC.

Overall Experience

Our family trip near Midway International Airport was a great success. The hotel was convenient, the attractions were educational and entertaining, and the shopping was top-notch. We highly recommend this destination for families looking for a fun and memorable experience.