Parking Overview
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) offers seven main parking choices spanning Garage Parking (Main Garage), Short-Term Parking (hourly), Long-Term Parking (daily), Economy Parking (Lots F/G/H), Valet Parking, Reserved/Premium Parking, and Off-Site Parking near the airport. Prices typically range from about $4–$10/day at off-site lots to $15–$22/day in on-site economy (Lots G/H and Lot F), up to $42/day in the Main Garage and $64/day for valet.
Choosing the Right Parking
- Short trips (1–3 hours): Use Main Garage Hourly Parking for the fastest terminal access (about $3 up to 1 hour; scaling to $10 for 2–3 hours). Ideal for quick pickups/drop-offs when you need to meet someone inside.
- Day trips: If you’ll be at ORD most of the day, the Main Garage is convenient but can reach $42 for 8–24 hours. Consider Economy Lot G or H (often $15/day) if you can spare time for the shuttle.
- Extended trips (1+ weeks): Choose Economy Lots (Lot G/H around $15/day) or off-site parking (often $4–$10/day) to keep total cost down.
- Premium needs: Main Garage Valet is best for maximum speed ($26 under 8 hours, then $64/day). Lot F offers covered economy-style parking (about $22/day).
Traveler-Specific Tips
- Families: The Main Garage is easiest for strollers and luggage carts thanks to proximity to Terminals 1–3; Lot F (Multi-Modal Facility) adds covered levels plus conveniences like concessions and mother’s rooms.
- Business travelers: Consider Valet or Reserved parking (adds about $10/day to standard rates) to avoid circling for a spot and to minimize walking time.
- Budget travelers: Compare Lot G/H and off-site lots (The Parking Spot, Park ’N Fly, WallyPark, and hotel lots). For some trips, public transit via CTA Blue Line can be cheaper than multi-day parking.
- EV owners: Free-to-use chargers (you pay normal parking) are available on Level 1 of the Main Garage and Level 4 of Lot F (Multi-Modal Facility).
Practical Parking Info
Booking ahead can lock in lower rates—platforms like SpotHero often let you pay at reservation time and can be cheaper than drive-up pricing. Most facilities accept credit/debit and many support mobile payment; carry a backup card just in case. On-site and reputable off-site lots typically feature 24/7 lighting, surveillance, and patrols. Covered options are best in winter: Main Garage and Lot F offer significant covered capacity. Accessible parking spaces are available in on-site garages/lots; follow posted signs and request assistance if needed.
Getting to Your Terminal
Main Garage is the closest walk to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Economy Lots F/G/H rely on 24/7 shuttles running roughly every 5–15 minutes; allow extra time during peaks. Off-site lots also run frequent shuttles, but travel time varies with traffic on Mannheim Road and surrounding arterials.
Alternatives & Tips
If on-site pricing is high, off-site facilities and nearby hotels can be strong values (some starting around $6–$13/day). For terminal drop-offs without parking, use designated ride-share/taxi zones and curbside areas. During holidays, summer weekends, and Monday mornings, book ahead—especially for covered and reserved options.