A Complete Guide to Car Service at Chicago Airports
Traveling in and out of a busy city like Chicago can be stressful, especially when you're flying. Between navigating terminals, managing luggage, and staying on time, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’ll get to or from the airport. That’s where professional car service comes in. Whether you're flying into O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW), booking a car service can make your airport experience smoother and more comfortable.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using car service at Chicago airports.
Why Use a Car Service?
Car services are private transportation options that offer comfort, convenience, and reliability. Unlike taxis or ride-shares, car services are often scheduled in advance, which helps avoid long waits or unpredictable costs. Here are some of the top reasons travelers choose a car service:
Punctuality: Professional drivers are trained to be on time, every time.
Comfort: Most car services offer clean, quiet, and spacious vehicles.
Stress-free travel: No need to look for parking, wait for a ride, or figure out directions.
Meet and Greet options: Many services offer inside pickup with a sign, which is great for first-time visitors or business travelers.
Where Can You Get Car Service in Chicago?
The two main airports in Chicago are:
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – located about 18 miles northwest of downtown.
Midway International Airport (MDW) – located about 12 miles southwest of downtown.
Both airports are served by many local and national car service companies. You can schedule pickups to or from your home, office, hotel, or any destination in the Chicago metro area and even into neighboring states like Indiana or Wisconsin.
Types of Car Services Available
There are different types of car services to match your needs and budget:
1. Sedans
Perfect for solo travelers or couples with light luggage. These are typically luxury vehicles like Lincoln Town Cars, Chrysler 300s, or similar models.
2. SUVs
Ideal for families or groups with more luggage. SUVs offer extra space and comfort.
3. Limousines
Great for special occasions like weddings, proms, or corporate events. Limousines offer a stylish and upscale ride.
4. Luxury Cars
Vehicles like BMWs, Audis, or Teslas provide a premium experience. Many business travelers choose this option.
5. Vans and Shuttles
These are good for larger groups or corporate teams. Some vans hold up to 14 passengers.
How to Book a Car Service
Booking a car service at a Chicago airport is simple and can usually be done online or by phone. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Choose your provider – Search for car services with good reviews, fair prices, and proper licensing.
Pick your vehicle – Select a car based on the number of passengers and amount of luggage.
Enter trip details – Provide your flight number, pickup time, drop-off address, and any special instructions.
Confirm the booking – Once the booking is confirmed, you’ll usually get an email or text confirmation.
Meet your driver – Most services offer curbside pickup or an inside meet-and-greet option.
Some popular car service companies in Chicago include:
Echo Limousine
LimoBank
GO Airport Express
Blacklane
Lyft Lux and Uber Black (app-based but premium)
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle, distance, time of day, and whether you’re booking a round trip. Here are some average price ranges:
From O’Hare to downtown Chicago: $65 to $120
From Midway to downtown Chicago: $55 to $100
Hourly rates: $60 to $150 per hour, depending on the vehicle
Tipping is usually not included, so it's standard to tip your driver 15-20% for good service.
Comparing Car Service to Other Options
You might wonder how car service compares to other airport transportation options. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Option | Cost | Comfort | Wait Time | Pre-scheduled | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Service | $$ - $$$ | High | None | Yes | Business, families, VIP travel |
| Taxi | $$ | Medium | Short | No | Short notice trips |
| Ride-share (Uber/Lyft) | $ - $$ | Medium | Varies | Somewhat | Everyday travelers |
| Public Transit (CTA) | $ | Low | Scheduled | No | Budget travelers |
| Airport Shuttle | $ - $$ | Medium | Some wait | Yes | Group or shared rides |
Car service is more expensive than public transit but offers a far more comfortable and personalized experience.
Special Services Available
Some car services offer extras that can make your ride even better:
Child seats (available upon request)
Wi-Fi and phone chargers
Pet-friendly rides
Flight tracking to adjust for delays
24/7 customer support
If you're traveling for a special occasion, many companies also offer champagne, decorations, or VIP packages.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
To get the most out of your car service, follow these simple tips:
Book early, especially during holidays, weekends, or large events.
Double-check your flight info to avoid delays or missed pickups.
Communicate with your driver—some companies send the driver’s name and contact info ahead of time.
Confirm your meeting point, especially at busy terminals.
Pack smart—make sure the vehicle you book can hold all your luggage comfortably.
Final Thoughts
Using a car service at Chicago’s airports is one of the easiest ways to make your travel day less stressful. Whether you’re coming for business, a vacation, or a special event, having a professional driver waiting for you can turn a chaotic airport trip into a smooth and enjoyable ride.
With options ranging from affordable sedans to luxury limousines, there’s a car service for every type of traveler. And in a city as busy as Chicago, that peace of mind is worth every penny. Chicago airport car service, O'Hare transportation, Midway car service, For more services and tips Visit our website: https://www.eliterideschicago.com/
