Car Hire Midway Airport — Your Chicago Adventure Starts the Moment You Land
Look, there’s something pretty great about touching down at Midway and knowing you’ve got your own set of wheels waiting for you. No standing in taxi queues that snake around the block, no figuring out which train line goes where, and definitely no overpriced rideshare surge pricing. Chicago’s second airport sits just 10 miles from downtown, which means you can be off the plane and cruising toward the city skyline in under 30 minutes. That’s the kind of convenience that turns a good trip into a great one.
But here’s the real advantage of grabbing a rental car at Midway: you’re not stuck in the city. Chicago is fantastic, don’t get me wrong, but the surrounding area is packed with stuff worth exploring. Lake Michigan’s shoreline stretches for miles in both directions. There are charming small towns, state parks with actual waterfalls, and some of the best deep-dish pizza spots that tourists never find because they can’t get there. Having a car means you see the real Midwest, not just the Magnificent Mile.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Midway Airport
Alright, let’s talk logistics. Midway is smaller than O’Hare, which honestly works in your favor when it comes to car rentals. The rental car facility is connected to the airport via a short shuttle ride — just head to the lower level of the terminal and follow the signs for Ground Transportation. Shuttles run every few minutes, so you won’t be waiting long. The whole process from landing to driving away usually takes about 30-45 minutes, which is pretty decent for a major city airport.
Most of the big rental companies operate here — Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, National, Alamo — so you’ve got options. If you’re travelling during peak season (summer months or around major holidays), definitely book ahead. The Chicago market gets busy, and you don’t want to be the person stuck with whatever overpriced minivan is left on the lot. When you pick up your car, you’ll need your driving licence, a credit card in the driver’s name, and your booking confirmation. International visitors should bring their passport too, and an International Driving Permit if your licence isn’t in English. Simple stuff, but easy to forget when you’re tired from a flight.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Midway Airport
Downtown Chicago: It’s the obvious choice, but for good reason. Drive north on Cicero Avenue and you’ll hit the Loop in about 20 minutes depending on traffic. Park near Millennium Park and walk to the Art Institute, Navy Pier, and the riverwalk. Just be warned: Chicago parking isn’t cheap, so budget for garages or look for street parking further out and walk.
Lake Michigan Shoreline: Head north on Lake Shore Drive and just keep going. The views of the lake on one side and the city on the other are genuinely stunning. Continue up to Evanston and beyond, or cross into Indiana going south. Either direction gives you beaches, lighthouses, and plenty of spots to pull over and take photos.
Starved Rock State Park: About 90 minutes southwest of Midway, this place feels like it belongs in a different country. Canyons, waterfalls, hiking trails — it’s a proper escape from the city. Perfect for a day trip if you need a break from urban chaos.
Route 66: The Mother Road starts right in Chicago. Head to the official starting point on Adams Street downtown, then drive southwest through Joliet and beyond. Even just doing the first 50 miles gives you a taste of classic Americana with diners, old motels, and roadside oddities.
Tips for Driving in Illinois
First things first: you’ll be driving on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted in miles per hour, with 70 mph on rural interstates, 55-65 mph on urban highways, and 30-35 mph in residential areas. Chicago drivers have a reputation for being aggressive, and honestly, it’s earned. Expect people to change lanes without signalling, cut you off, and honk if you hesitate at a green light. Stay alert but don’t take it personally — that’s just how it is.
Toll roads are common here, especially if you’re heading out of the city. The Illinois Tollway system uses I-PASS electronic tolling, but most rental companies offer a toll pass option. It’s usually worth it unless you want to deal with cash lanes and keeping exact change handy. As for fuel, you’ll find plenty of gas stations, but prices near the airport are typically higher. Fill up a few miles away before returning your car. And if you’re visiting in winter, check the weather forecast religiously — Chicago snowstorms are no joke, and driving in them requires serious caution.
Ready to book? Use the search widget at the top of this page to compare prices from all the major rental companies at Midway Airport. It takes about two minutes and could save you a fair bit compared to booking direct.