Discover the unexpected between takeoff and touchdown.
Let me tell you about one of my favorite airports on the planet: Chicago O’Hare. I know what you’re thinking—how can anyone love an airport? But hear me out. O’Hare isn’t just a place to catch a flight. It’s a full-on experience if you know how to explore it right.
I flew into ORD on May 24th, landing from Las Vegas and connecting on to Cincinnati, and yep—Terminal 3 was my playground for both legs. Even with a short layover, there’s something about the nonstop buzz, the promise of motion, and the sheer size of O’Hare that feels like you’re in the middle of the world’s biggest adventure hub. It’s chaotic in the best way. Sure, it’s always under construction and packed with people, but somehow, that adds to the charm. It’s like the city of Chicago itself—constantly growing, always moving, and full of character.
Let’s talk eats (because you know that’s a priority).
If you ever find yourself in Terminal 3, do yourself a favor and grab a torta from Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless. Seriously, chef’s kiss. That spot alone is worth planning a longer layover. Craving a drink? Goose Island Beer Company has you covered with local brews that hit just right before a flight. There are also plenty of quick bites if you’re tight on time, but if you’ve got a minute—slow down, sit back, and enjoy the food scene. It’s better than you’d expect for an airport.
Need a breather?
O’Hare might be wild, but it has its cozy corners. The American Airlines Admirals Club in Terminal 3 is a solid escape if you need quiet, outlets, snacks, and that “I have my life together” feeling. And if you’re not in a lounge-access mood, just wander a bit. O’Hare has some surprisingly peaceful pockets if you walk away from the main gates. And for us photographers, there’s something beautiful about the sunlight hitting the terminals or the lines of planes queued at the runway—don’t forget your camera!
Pro tip: plan ahead for TSA.
Security here can be hit or miss. I’ve waited five minutes… and I’ve waited forty. Download the FlyChicago app or check their website before you head in so you don’t get caught off guard. And yes—keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. You know the drill, but it helps so much in a big airport like this.
What makes O’Hare really fun?
Well, I always play Pokémon Go when I travel (don’t judge!), and O’Hare is a goldmine of PokéStops. But even beyond that, there’s some really cool art scattered throughout the terminals. One of my favorite finds? That glowing neon light tunnel connecting Concourses B and C in Terminal 1. It’s iconic and feels like you’re walking into the future. You might also spot rotating art exhibits, funky sculptures, or galleries tucked between gates—so keep your eyes open. There’s always something unexpected around the corner.
Getting there and getting around
This time, O’Hare was just a layover for me, but if you’re starting or ending your journey here, the CTA Blue Line is your best bet for getting downtown without the stress of traffic. Ubers and Lyfts are easy to catch too, and if you’re renting a car, the Multi-Modal Facility has everything in one place—super convenient. Just give yourself time, especially if you’re transferring between terminals. O’Hare is massive and unforgiving if you misjudge your transfer time.
The verdict?
I love this airport. It’s busy, it’s loud, it’s a little chaotic—but that’s part of the fun. For travelers like us, it’s a playground of people-watching, food exploring, and photography magic. If you’ve got a long layover? You’ll have plenty to do. If your connection is tight? There’s enough infrastructure here to help you recover if things don’t go as planned.
Would I recommend it to a newbie traveler? Honestly, maybe not—it can be overwhelming at first. But if you’ve flown a few times and want an airport that feels like an adventure all its own, O’Hare’s your place.
Until the next gate,
Angela ✈️
Lenses and Latitudes
