Enterprise Car Hire
Illinois

The Enterprise car hire counter at Chicago O’Hare is located in the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), which is a consolidated centre for all rental car companies. This facility is not attached to any specific passenger terminal. To reach it, you will need to take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) train. The ATS provides a convenient and quick connection from all terminals—1, 2, 3, and 5—directly to the MMF. Simply follow the overhead signs in your terminal for "Rental Cars" or "Airport Transit System" to find the boarding platform.

Upon arrival at any of O'Hare's terminals, your first step is to follow the airport signage directing you to the Airport Transit System, or ATS. This is a free and efficient light-rail train that connects all passenger terminals with the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), where the Enterprise counter is located. The ATS runs frequently, ensuring you won't have a long wait. Once you board, the ride to the MMF is just a few minutes, delivering you directly to the car hire centre.

For travellers arriving on late-night flights at O'Hare, it's always good practice to verify the Enterprise location's operating hours ahead of your trip. Including your flight number in your reservation is highly recommended, as this allows the staff to be aware of potential delays. The Airport Transit System (ATS) to the rental facility typically operates 24/7, ensuring you can get there regardless of your arrival time. Planning ahead ensures a smoother collection process after a long day of travel.

To ensure a smooth and efficient collection experience at the Enterprise counter, travellers should be prepared to present a few key items. Generally, you will need a valid driving licence issued in your name. Additionally, a major credit card, also in the renter's name, is typically required for the rental. Having these documents ready when you approach the counter will help speed up the process and get you on your way more quickly.

For a quick return for an early-morning flight, follow the airport signs for "Rental Car Return" as you approach O'Hare. These signs will guide you directly into the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). Once you've dropped off the vehicle and completed the return process with an agent, you can proceed directly to the Airport Transit System (ATS) train station inside the MMF. This train provides a fast and direct connection to all airline terminals, allowing you to get to check-in and security efficiently.

Several petrol stations are conveniently located within a few miles of O'Hare, making it easy to refuel before your return. You can find multiple options along major roads leading to the airport, such as Mannheim Road, Higgins Road, and Cumberland Avenue. To avoid any last-minute rush, it's a good idea to refuel when you are about 5-10 minutes away from the airport entrance. Using a navigation app to search for "petrol stations" as you get close will show you the most convenient choices along your route.

A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 30 to 45 minutes from the moment you drop off your car to when you arrive at your terminal's security queue. This accounts for the time to complete the vehicle return process, walk to the Airport Transit System (ATS) station within the rental facility, and take the train ride to Terminal 1 or 3. During peak travel times or if you have extra luggage, budgeting a little more time can provide a more relaxed experience before your flight.

Yes, collecting your hire car at O'Hare and returning it to another Enterprise location within Illinois is a very common and convenient option for travellers. This flexibility allows you to plan point-to-point trips without needing to loop back to the airport. Whether you're ending your journey in downtown Chicago, Springfield, or another city, you can arrange a one-way rental when you book. This feature is ideal for road trips or for travellers flying out of a different airport.

The most direct route from O'Hare to downtown Chicago is I-190 East, which merges into I-90 East, also known as the Kennedy Expressway. However, during weekday rush hour, this expressway experiences significant congestion. While it remains the primary route, it's crucial to use a real-time traffic app like Google Maps or Waze to anticipate delays. For a less stressful alternative, you might consider waiting for traffic to subside if your schedule allows.

The Chicago metropolitan area and much of Illinois are served by the Illinois Tollway system, and you will likely encounter toll roads when driving from O'Hare. Most hire vehicles are equipped with a transponder to automatically record tolls, which simplifies the process for you. This allows you to drive through the open-road tolling lanes without stopping to pay in cash. Be sure to ask the Enterprise agent at the counter how the tolling service works for your specific hire to fully understand the process.

Driving from O'Hare to the suburb of Naperville is quite straightforward, as it's primarily a motorway journey. The most direct route is to take I-294 South from the airport and then merge onto I-88 West, the Reagan Memorial Tollway. This route bypasses downtown Chicago traffic and leads you directly to the Naperville exits. Without heavy traffic, the drive typically takes about 40 to 50 minutes.

The drive to both Rosemont and Schaumburg is very manageable for first-time visitors. Rosemont is located immediately adjacent to O'Hare, so it's just a short, few-minute drive on local roads. To get to Schaumburg, you'll take I-90 West directly from the airport area, which is a major, well-marked expressway. The drive to Schaumburg is typically around 20-30 minutes.

Driving to Wrigleyville or the United Center on an event night requires extra planning and patience. Traffic in these neighbourhoods becomes extremely congested several hours before a game or concert begins. Parking is also limited and can be challenging to find, so it's highly advisable to book a space in a nearby car park in advance using a parking app. Allow at least double your normal travel time and be prepared for road closures and heavy pedestrian traffic.

Finding overnight parking in downtown Chicago is best done by using car parks rather than searching for on-street parking. Many hotels offer parking for their guests, which is a secure and convenient option. For other situations, you can use parking apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find, compare, and pre-book spaces in public car parks throughout the Loop and surrounding neighbourhoods. Booking in advance often provides a better rate and guarantees you a space.

If you prioritise easier parking, consider staying in neighbourhoods just outside the downtown core. Areas like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Bucktown offer a better chance of finding on-street parking, though you should always check for permit restrictions. Alternatively, staying in suburbs with convenient Metra train access, such as Evanston or Oak Park, provides a great balance: easier parking at your accommodation and a straightforward train ride into the city for sightseeing.

For navigating Chicago's city streets and parking garages, a compact or mid-size saloon is often the most practical choice. These vehicles are easier to manoeuvre through traffic and fit more comfortably into the tight parking spaces common in city garages. While a larger vehicle might be necessary for more passengers or luggage, a smaller car can significantly reduce the stress of driving and parking in dense urban areas like the Loop, River North, or Lincoln Park.

When travelling with children, it's wise to reserve any necessary child safety seats when you book your vehicle to ensure they are available upon arrival. The journey from your terminal to the car hire centre involves a ride on the Airport Transit System (ATS) train, which is fully accessible for families with buggies and luggage. Having snacks and entertainment ready can also make the short train ride and the counter process smoother for little ones.

For group travel, selecting the right vehicle class is key to managing luggage effectively. When booking, carefully consider the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you'll have. A standard SUV, people carrier, or large passenger van will provide ample room for everyone's bags without compromising passenger comfort. It's often better to choose a slightly larger vehicle than you think you need to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey from the airport.

Winter visitors should be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions, including snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Major motorways like I-90 and I-294 are typically well ploughed, but conditions can change quickly. It's essential to drive cautiously, increase your following distance, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Before you leave the airport, check the local weather forecast and road conditions to be fully prepared for your journey.

A road trip to Starved Rock State Park is a fantastic weekend getaway from Chicago. From O'Hare, the drive is about 90 minutes to two hours, primarily heading west on I-80. Plan your trip by booking accommodation in nearby towns like Utica or Ottawa in advance, especially during peak seasons. Before you go, check the park's website for trail conditions and pack appropriate footwear for hiking the canyons and seeing the beautiful waterfalls.

A day trip to Milwaukee is very realistic and enjoyable with a hire car from O'Hare. The drive north on I-94 is straightforward and typically takes about 90 minutes each way, outside of rush hour. A good plan is to leave early and focus your visit on a specific area like the Historic Third Ward for shopping and dining, or the lakefront to see the Milwaukee Art Museum. Allow plenty of time for the return journey to avoid Chicago's evening traffic.

The drive from O'Hare International Airport to the University of Illinois campus in Champaign-Urbana is a fairly direct trip south. The journey primarily uses I-294 South to I-57 South and typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions when leaving the Chicago area. It's a straightforward motorway drive through central Illinois.

Driving from O'Hare to Springfield for a multi-day trip is a journey of about 3 to 3.5 hours, covering roughly 200 miles. The most direct route is I-294 South to I-55 South, which takes you almost all the way to the state capital. The drive is mostly through flat, rural landscapes once you are south of the Chicago suburbs. In Springfield, you can expect a city that is easy to navigate by car, with plentiful parking at historical sites like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

A scenic drive to Galena is very feasible and a popular weekend trip from the Chicago area. The journey from O'Hare takes approximately three hours, heading west via I-90 and then onto US-20. As you approach Galena, the flat Illinois landscape gives way to the beautiful rolling hills of the Driftless Area. A hire car gives you the freedom to explore the charming downtown, visit nearby wineries, and enjoy the countryside at your own pace.

Reaching Indiana Dunes National Park from O'Hare for a beach day is a simple drive. The most common route is to take I-90 East through Chicago, which becomes the Chicago Skyway (a toll road), and continue on I-90 into Indiana. From there, follow signs for the park via IN-49 or US-12. The drive typically takes about an hour without significant traffic.

The simplest way to drive to McCormick Place from O'Hare is to take I-190 East to I-90/I-94 East (Kennedy Expressway) towards downtown. Continue as it becomes the Dan Ryan Expressway and then exit onto I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). McCormick Place has its own dedicated exit from I-55. The convention centre has large dedicated car parks, but it's wise to check for any major city events that might impact traffic on your travel day.

When planning sightseeing days, be aware that downtown Chicago traffic is heaviest during morning (7-9:30am) and evening (3:30-6:30pm) rush hours. The street grid can be complex, with multi-level roads like Wacker Drive and numerous one-way streets. For a more relaxed experience, consider parking your car in a central car park for the day and exploring dense areas like the Loop and Millennium Park on foot or by using public transport.

The most convenient places to park near Millennium Park and the Art Institute are the large underground car parks located directly beneath the park itself. The Millennium Park Garage and Grant Park North Garage offer direct access to these attractions. You can enter these car parks from Michigan Avenue. For potentially better rates, you can also use a parking app to find and pre-book a space in one of the many private garages located a few blocks west in the Loop.

To avoid the worst of the airport-area congestion, try to plan your departure outside of peak travel times if possible. When leaving the Multi-Modal Facility, follow the overhead signs for I-190, which is the main motorway connecting O'Hare to the regional expressway system. Using a real-time navigation app is also crucial, as it can alert you to unexpected queues and suggest alternative local routes like Mannheim Road or Higgins Road to bypass traffic jams.

The easiest way to handle Chicago's complex street grid is to rely on a GPS navigation app on your smartphone. Apps like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps are constantly updated to account for one-way streets, turn restrictions, and even temporary road closures. Many modern hire cars also feature smartphone integration, allowing you to display the map on the car's screen. This lets you focus on driving safely while the app handles the navigation.

A common mistake for visitors is underestimating the complexity of Lower Wacker Drive, so it's often best to stay on the upper-level streets unless your GPS specifically directs you there. Another point is to be vigilant about pedestrians, as they have right of way at crossings. Also, be aware of lanes designated for buses only and pay close attention to parking signs, as restrictions can be confusing and enforcement is strict.

A hire car is the ideal way to travel between Chicago's suburbs, as public transport links can be indirect. The best plan is to use the major tollways that ring the city, such as I-294 (the Tri-State Tollway) and I-355 (the Veterans Memorial Tollway), to move efficiently between northern, western, and southern suburbs. This helps you bypass city congestion and makes for a much smoother travel experience.

For a trip to both Chicago and Madison, a great plan is to pick up your hire car at O'Hare and drive directly to Madison first. The route is a straight run west on I-90, taking about 2.5 hours, which allows you to get the longer drive out of the way while you're fresh. After your time in Madison, you can drive back to Chicago for the city portion of your trip. This sequence avoids driving in and out of Chicago multiple times.

To plan an efficient multi-stop itinerary, it's best to group your destinations geographically. A logical route from O'Hare would be to first visit Oak Park, which is west of the city. From there, you can drive into Chicago for your downtown activities. Finally, you can head north to visit Evanston before returning to O'Hare or continuing your journey. This creates a C-shaped route that minimises backtracking and saves valuable travel time.

For a scenic drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline, consider a vehicle that enhances the experience, such as a convertible for warm weather or an SUV with large windows for great views. Comfort is also key for a leisurely drive, so a mid-size or full-size car can provide a smoother ride. The drive up Sheridan Road through the North Shore suburbs is beautiful, and having a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle will make the trip even more memorable.

The smoothest approach is to choose a vehicle that can accommodate your gear, such as an SUV or a people carrier, when you make your reservation. Upon arrival, you can use a free airport luggage trolley to transport your golf clubs or oversized bags from baggage reclaim to the Airport Transit System (ATS) train. The ATS is fully accessible and will take you and your luggage directly to the Multi-Modal Facility, where you can easily load your items into your hire vehicle.

The key is to programme your hotel's address into your GPS before you leave the car hire facility. As you exit, pay close attention to the overhead signs and ignore signs for "Airport Terminals" or "Departures". Instead, look for signs directing you to major local roads like Mannheim Road or River Road, or to main motorways like I-190 or I-294. Most airport-area hotels are located along these main routes just outside the airport's immediate loop.

Most travellers today find that using a phone-based navigation app like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps is the most effective option. These apps provide invaluable real-time traffic data, which is essential for navigating Chicago's frequently congested expressways. Many modern hire cars are equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing you to display your phone's map directly on the car's dashboard screen for easier and safer viewing.

To create an efficient route, start by plotting all your destinations on a map. Group the suburbs by location—for example, visit all the northern suburbs (like Evanston, Skokie) in one trip and all the western suburbs (like Naperville, Schaumburg) in another. By planning your visits in a logical geographic loop or sequence, you can significantly reduce driving time and avoid criss-crossing the metropolitan area.

During major events like Lollapalooza or on peak holiday weekends, you should plan for significantly extra travel time. The roads leading to O'Hare will be much more congested than usual, and the car hire return facility itself will be busier. To avoid stress and the risk of missing your flight, aim to leave for the airport much earlier than you normally would. Building in this extra buffer is the best strategy for a smooth return during these busy periods.