Car Rental Chicago Midway International Airport

Parking in Chicago

• Parking Garages - if you’re in search of a space to park your car, there are plenty of dedicated garages and lots. The South Loop Parking Garage on South Federal Street is ideally placed for the Financial District.
• If you’re planning on exploring the length of the Magnificent Mile (60611), then you can park at Michigan Avenue (60602) before heading out on foot.
• On-street parking – you may be able to find metered street parking in the city, which you can pay for through the ParkChicago app. Each meter allows a unique length of stay, so be sure to check before leaving your vehicle.

How to get to Downtown Chicago from Chicago Midway Airport

It should only take you around 30 minutes to get to Downtown Chicago from Chicago Midway Airport in your rental car. On leaving the airport, take the I-55 N and continue for almost three miles. From there, take exit 293A before heading onto S Clark Street. Then journey on to West Congress Parkway in the heart of Downtown.

Roads and Freeways

Main routes in and around Chicago

• The I-294 is a bypass road connecting the I-80 to the US 6.
• Michigan Avenue runs north-south of the Chicago grid. Starting at Lake Shore Drive at the north end, it connects to Sibley Boulevard in the Harvey suburb at the south end.

Traffic in Chicago

Morning rush hour typically runs between 6am to 9am, while traffic can also be busier in the late afternoons.

Things to do in and around Chicago

The Magnificent Mile

Explore the height of fashion as you stroll along the Magnificent Mile, with stores for luxury labels like Louis Vuitton and sought-after jewelry in abundance. Once you’re all shopped out, re-energize at one of the many restaurants lining the 130-block stretch – and be sure to grab a slice of classic Chicago Pizza.

Navy Pier

You’ll get the chance to truly unwind when you head to Navy Pier. Hop on the Ferris wheel and take in the view of the surrounding waters of Lake Michigan from 200 feet in the air. You can also enjoy live performances, a stroll through the gardens and twisting, adrenaline-fueled carnival rides.

Lake Michigan

Where to stay in Chicago

Soho House (IL, 60607)

Enjoy the comforts of this chic hotel, just a stone’s throw from some of the city’s best restaurants in the Fulton Market District. Guests can take a dip in the heated rooftop pool and enjoy the hotel’s spacious rooms, which utilize a rustic design of exposed brick walls and hardwood floors.

Thompson Chicago (IL, 60611)

Thanks to British designer Tara Bernerd, visits to the Thompson are elegant and comfortable. Take in the views of Lake Michigan through your room’s floor-to-ceiling windows, while sinking back into plush cushions and silk fabrics. Italian chef Paul Kahan serves up culinary wonders in the hotel kitchen.

Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile (IL, 60611)

The Sofitel is described as a dazzling jewel in the sky – and it really is just that. Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, this 32-floor hotel is a striking feature of the Chicago skyline. Step across light-studded granite floors, and sleep in style in the ultra-modern rooms.  

Where to eat in Chicago

The Purple Pig (IL, 60611)

A Chicago favorite known for its creative pork dishes, choose from cured cuts, strings of juicy sausages, spreadable delicacies and potted varieties. The restaurant atmosphere is as inviting as the menu, with wood-paneled walls and warm lighting.

Galit (IL, 60614)

Serving Middle Eastern cuisine from renowned New Orleans chef Zachary Engel, Galit perfectly blends an assortment of cultures into its delicious dishes. You can find the restaurant in the heart of Lincoln Park, enjoying an ensemble of homemade hummus, roasted vegetables and soft pita breads.  

Pequod’s Pizza (IL, 60614)