Chicago Midway Airport Map: Getting Around Without Losing Your Mind

Here’s the thing about Midway – it’s actually pretty easy to navigate once you understand the basics. Unlike O’Hare, which feels like its own small city, Midway is compact and manageable. I’ve been through here dozens of times and rarely feel stressed about finding my way around.

The Basic Layout

One terminal. Three concourses. That’s really it. Compare that to the maze of terminals at most major airports and you’ll understand why some Chicago travelers actually prefer Midway.

Concourse A

• Gates A1 through A19
• Southwest dominates here – they pretty much own Midway
• Decent food options, local chains mixed with nationals
• Some interesting art installations if you’ve got time to kill

Concourse B

• Gates B1 to B26
• Delta, Frontier, and others operate from here
• Mix of quick-service and sit-down restaurants
• Good charging stations scattered around – actually works when you need it

Concourse C

• Smallest section – just gates C1 to C3
• Used for overflow during busy periods
• Fewer amenities, but you’re never far from everything else

Getting To and From the Airport

The CTA Orange Line is honestly the best option if you’re coming from downtown Chicago. About 25-30 minutes from the Loop, costs a few bucks, and drops you right at the terminal. I take it every time unless I’ve got heavy luggage.

The walk from the train platform through the enclosed walkway takes maybe 10 minutes. It’s heated in winter, which matters more than you’d think in Chicago.

If you’re driving, parking’s straightforward. Economy lots are cheapest but need a shuttle. Daily parking is closer. The garage next to the terminal costs more but saves time. Pick your priorities.

Security Situation

One centralized checkpoint, which keeps things simple. TSA PreCheck lanes are available if you’ve got it. During off-peak hours, I’ve walked right through in under 10 minutes. Peak mornings can back up, but nothing like the chaos at bigger airports.

My rule: 90 minutes before domestic flights is plenty. Two hours if you’re paranoid or traveling during holidays.

Food and Drink

For a smaller airport, Midway has decent options. Potbelly is my go-to when I want something fast and satisfying – their sandwiches travel well on planes too. Harry Caray’s Seventh Inning Stretch works for a real meal with a drink if you’ve got time.

Fast food’s everywhere – Starbucks, all the usual suspects. Nothing groundbreaking but you won’t go hungry.

Useful Amenities

• WiFi: Free throughout the terminal, and it actually works reasonably well
• Charging: Stations at most gates, plus random spots throughout concourses
• Family facilities: Family restrooms, nursing rooms, changing stations
• Pet relief: Designated areas if you’re traveling with animals

Making Connections

The distances here are so short that tight connections actually work. I’ve made layovers that would have been impossible at bigger airports. Just check your gate when you land and move with purpose if time’s tight.

A Bit of History

Midway opened in 1927, which is wild to think about. It was Chicago’s main airport before O’Hare came along. The name honors the Battle of Midway from WWII. There’s actually some nice artwork and historical displays throughout if you’re into that.

What’s Changing

They’re always working on something here – terminal improvements, security upgrades, that kind of thing. It’s getting better gradually without ever feeling like a construction zone.

Bottom Line

Midway’s not glamorous, but it’s efficient. Southwest runs the show, the layout’s simple, and getting in and out is way less stressful than most airports this busy. For Chicago travel, definitely check what Midway offers before automatically booking through O’Hare.