Getting to O’Hare International Airport from Buffalo Grove is Easier Then You May Think

“It must take you forever to get to the airport!”  Truth is, it’s neither complicated nor very time consuming to get to O’Hare International Airport from the Chicago Northwest Suburbs.  My personal best has been 23 minutes door-to-door (although I will admit to that particular trip starting at 4:30 in the morning).  Here are the three, easiest ways I have found to O’Hare plus one bonus:
Metra North Central Service

The Metra North Central Service (which includes service to Buffalo Grove) is a commuter service that stops at the O’Hare Transfer Station (located at Remote Parking Lot F).  Once there, you can connect, via the airport shuttle bus system, to the People Mover.  I have to tell you, this is not my favorite way of getting to the airport, but it is definitely the least expensive.  This is best for those times when you can pack light.

Cab
Taking a cab is definitely my favorite way of getting to O’Hare and I have never been let down by American Taxi.  They have set fares to the O’Hare and will pick you up any time, day or night.  Fares from Buffalo Grove are about $35 (there may be additional fees based on gas rates, etc.).  Tipping is expected and will increase your price tag from $7 – $10.  The best thing about a cab is the door-to-door service so you don’t have to leave the house earlier just to account for parking time.  One caveat, if you are taking a cab FROM O’Hare to the Chicago Northwest Suburbs, call ahead and schedule the service.  It is next to impossible to find a cab driver willing to take you that far out to the suburbs without a reservation.  It can also cost nearly $75 for the ride.

Driving
If you are only traveling overnight, I would suggest driving to O’Hare and parking in the daily parking lot.  Parking runs $30 a day, but this lot is as close to the airport as you can get if you are driving a car.  Lot A, floors 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6 offer the best access to the terminals. You can get the best spot if you call ahead and find out which terminal you need to access for your flight and park accordingly.  And if you really want convenience, $45 will get you valet service!

Park and Fly
Now, I haven’t tried this service myself, but I know people who swear by it.  You get the most bang for your buck with this service if you have an early morning flight and you really don’t want to leave the Northwest Suburbs at 4:00am to catch your flight.  There are participating hotels around O’Hare that offer a room for the night and then parking for your car for the duration of your trip.  For example, the Quality Inn’s package offers one night’s accommodation, 7 days of parking and shuttle service to and from the airport for $89.  Go to the Park Sleep Fly website for more information and to make reservations.

Hopefully this will help everyone get to O’Hare with a little less hassle, a little more peace and ready to tackle a long day of travel.