Landing at O’Hare on a Friday and staying near the Loop? From ORD to downtown is about 18 miles via the Kennedy (I‑90/I‑94), usually 35–60 minutes depending on traffic. If you want a fast airport pickup, the car rental desks at O’Hare keep you moving so you can reach your hotel before dinner.
Choose O’Hare pickup when your flight lands late, you’re carrying bulky luggage, or you plan to drive straight to the suburbs. You’ll avoid rideshare lines and step right onto I‑190 with quick access to I‑294 and I‑90. If speed matters, the Enterprise counter at ORD and other partners offer streamlined queues and broad fleets.
Choose a city pickup when your plans are mostly downtown—River North, West Loop, or Museum Campus—and you won’t drive on day one. That way you skip overnight garage fees for an extra night you won’t use. If you’ll head out on day two, consider an SUV selection at O’Hare timed to a morning pickup to miss rush hour on the Kennedy.
Compare true door‑to‑door cost. Airport pickups can include concession fees, while neighborhood locations may have lower taxes but higher parking costs. Add tolls if you’ll use the Jane Addams (I‑90) or Tri‑State (I‑294). Returning at ORD is simple: follow wayfinding and refuel just before the airport to avoid premium pump prices. If you’re traveling with family or sports gear, roomy returns are easier with our spacious van options.
Visitors from the UK and Ireland often prefer browsing in familiar terms—use our car hire view to compare the same vehicles, insurance, and providers around O’Hare in pounds.
Quick tips for a weekend plan
- Arrive before 3 p.m. on Fridays to beat the outbound rush on I‑90/I‑94.
- Check your hotel’s overnight policy—some garages add in/out fees or special event surcharges.
- Time your Sunday return before the late‑afternoon inbound wave.
Why book with Hola Car Rentals
With Hola Car Rentals, you get Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, our All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, and cashback on tolls that helps offset expressway costs. Transparent pricing means no surprises at the counter.
Bottom line: If you’ll drive immediately or head for the suburbs, O’Hare pickup is usually the most convenient. If your first day is on foot, pick up in the city the morning you hit the road. Ready to plan your weekend? Book with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy a smooth start in Chicago.
