If you’re passing time on a layover and searching for things to do at Chicago O’Hare Airport, you’re not alone. O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in North America, and while parts of it feel dated, there’s usually plenty happening around the clock. Expect crowds, basic but functional amenities, and long walks between concourses. That said, there are decent food options, notable public art, lounges, and a few places to rest if you know where to look — which can make a long or unexpected layover a little easier to manage.
1. Eat like a local
Chicago’s food culture shows up at O’Hare better than at many U.S. airports, with a mix of familiar chains and recognizable local brands. For classic Chicago comfort food, travellers often seek out Reggio’s Chicago Style Pizza, which serves deep-dish and thin-crust slices, and Chicago-style hot dog stands found in several terminals.
Snack lovers gravitate toward Garrett Popcorn Shops, best known for its sweet-and-savory popcorn mixes that make an easy take-home treat. For something heartier, Tortas Frontera is one of the airport’s most popular sit-down options, offering Mexican tortas, tacos, and breakfast items made with fresher ingredients than typical airport fare.
Dining options are spread throughout the terminals, but hours vary widely. Late at night, choices become limited. A few Dunkin’ locations may operate overnight, particularly in Terminal 3 and Terminal 5, but 24-hour food service should not be assumed, especially during slower overnight periods.
2. Relax in an airport lounge
Could you spend your layover hanging out in an airport lounge? You can! Many lounges allow travellers, regardless of airline or service class flown, to enter for a fee. Relax comfortably, eat some tasty food, and enjoy the relative quiet. To gain entry, pay at the door, buy a single-use pass online or use your lounge membership program. Locations and details are available in our Chicago O’Hare Airport Guide.
3. Go shopping
O’Hare offers the usual mix of airport shopping — convenience stores, newsstands, duty-free shops in international areas, and travel essentials — but there are a few Chicago-specific stops worth noting if you have time to browse. The Field Museum Store sells science- and nature-themed gifts inspired by one of the city’s best-known museums, while Vosges Haut‑Chocolat features high-end chocolate with unusual flavor combinations that make for a uniquely local souvenir.
Most stores keep hours aligned with flight schedules rather than operating around the clock, so shopping options may be limited late at night or very early in the morning.
4. Browse the art
O’Hare has one of the more substantial public art programs among U.S. airports, making it surprisingly easy to pass time simply by walking between concourses. Artworks range from large-scale sculptures to murals and light installations that reflect Chicago’s architecture, music, and cultural history.
The most recognizable piece is the glowing neon tunnel known as The Sky’s the Limit, which connects Concourses B and C and has become a favorite photo stop. Even if you’re not actively seeking it out, you’re likely to encounter smaller installations throughout the terminals as you move between gates.
5. Enjoy a spa treatment
Terminal Gateway Spa has three locations that offer mani/pedis, facials, massage treatments and more. XpresSpa also provides speedier beauty services.
6. Yoga
If you need to loosen up between flights, O’Hare has a dedicated Yoga Room in the Terminal 3 Rotunda on the Mezzanine level. The space is quiet and includes screens with guided poses for self-led stretching.
7. Go sightseeing
If you’re travelling light and have a long layover, it’s possible to head into Chicago — but only if you plan carefully. Between transit time, security lines, and the airport’s size, most travellers should allow at least 8 hours between flights before leaving the airport.
The CTA Blue Line runs directly from O’Hare to downtown and typically reaches the Loop in about 45 minutes under normal conditions. Taxis and rideshares are available, but traffic delays can be unpredictable, particularly during rush hours.
O’Hare does not offer public luggage storage, so venturing out is easiest if you’re carrying minimal bags. Once downtown, visitors often focus on walkable highlights such as Millennium Park and its Cloud Gate sculpture, the Art Institute of Chicago, river architecture cruises, or skyline views from the Willis Tower Skydeck. Always budget extra time for the return trip and security screening. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Chicago.
8. Get online
Stay connected to friends and family, update your social media accounts or surf the internet using the airport’s free unlimited WiFi.
9. Catch up on your sleep
Sleeping at O’Hare airport is common, especially during overnight delays, but comfort can be hit-or-miss. Seating with armrests is widespread, and truly quiet areas are limited, particularly in busy concourses. Some travellers have reported finding padded or couch-style seating in select areas of Terminals 2 and 3, but these reports are inconsistent
During large-scale disruptions, especially in winter weather, airport staff may distribute cots, though availability depends on the severity of delays and should not be expected as a standard service.
For guaranteed rest, the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel is located on airport property and connected to the terminals, making it the most convenient option for short stays. Numerous off-airport hotels nearby also offer free shuttle service, though they require additional travel time. See our Chicago O’Hare Airport Guide for hotel details.
Updated 12 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Chicago O’Hare Airport. Visit our Chicago O’Hare Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.