Chicago flights – The windy city

Jan 26 2010 By Mary Barabe

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When booking a flight to the US it’s easy to go for New York or Los Angeles. However, for a sophisticated city break, it’s worth considering Chicago. The largest city in the State of Illinois, the city is the third largest in the United States, situated on the south west shore of Lake Michigan.

A centre of culture, entertainment and finance, Chicago suits business and casual travellers alike. The city has strong business links and is steeped in sporting history as home to the Chicago Bulls and the White Sox. However, keen shoppers won’t be disappointed with the myriad of department and chain stores along the Magnificent Mile to while away the hours.

When you’ve finished shopping, why not take a stroll along one of the paths surrounding Lake Michigan. Alternatively, Chicago’s Loop offers a chance to see some of America’s tallest buildings and, a sightseeing cruise from Navy Pier will allow you a chance to watch the world go by while taking in the city sights.

If you’re looking for an evening’s entertainment after shopping or sightseeing, you can be sure to find entertainment in the form of one of Chicago’s blues clubs. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, Chicago is renowned for its pizzas and its thick steaks so you’re bound to find a filling meal waiting for you in one of the downtown restaurants.

If you’re looking for a trip out of town, one of America’s best known architects also has strong links to Chicago. Many of Frank Lloyd-Wright’s first buildings, developed in the ‘Prairie Style’ he was famous for were built in Oak Park, a Chicago suburb and are well worth visiting. Many visitors fly to America specifically to see Wright’s early works.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport is one of America’s best-connected airports and for many years was one of its busiest, with 70 million people travelling through it daily. Twenty miles north west of downtown Chicago, it provides excellent transport links via shuttle, hire car or public transport.

If you’re stuck, a 45-minute ride on the Blue Line CTA train from Terminal 2 will get you into the city via Chicago’s Clark/Lake or Jackson stations, situated in The Loop. From here, you can travel to stops all over the city. Alternatively the Airport Express is a door to door drop off van service, taking 30-60 minutes. A taxi will take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Chicago flights can be booked via most travel agents and online travel sites, often at discounted fares out of high season. As a primary business destination you can also ensure courteous service and a pleasant flight. And if you want to explore further, Chicago International Airport has frequent direct flights to the rest of the US, as well as popular international destinations.

As the city is such an international hub, why not book a connecting flight to New York, Los Angeles or further afield? With so many options, Chicago provides an ideal destination to contemplate your next trip.