Midway International Airport (MDW) and Northwestern University are located in different parts of the greater Chicago area, making the journey between them a topic of frequent inquiry for students, faculty, and visitors. While Midway serves the southwest side of Chicago, Northwestern University's main campus is situated in Evanston, a suburb directly north of the city. This means there's a significant distance to cover, and choosing the right mode of transportation is key to a smooth and timely arrival.
So, how far exactly is Midway Airport to Northwestern University, and what's the best way to get there? Let's break it down!
The Distance Lowdown
The distance between Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, is approximately 26 to 30 miles, depending on the specific route and exact campus destination. This translates to a drive that typically takes 45 minutes to an hour in ideal traffic conditions. However, Chicago traffic can be notoriously unpredictable, so it's always wise to factor in extra time, especially during peak hours.
Now, let's explore your options for making this journey.
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| How Far Is Midway Airport To Northwestern University |
Your Comprehensive Guide to Traveling from Midway Airport to Northwestern University
Whether you're prioritizing speed, cost, or convenience, there's a transportation method for you. Let's dive into each option with a step-by-step approach.
Step 1: Decide on Your Priority - Speed, Cost, or Convenience?
Before you even think about booking a ride or checking a bus schedule, take a moment to consider what matters most to you. Are you on a tight schedule and willing to pay more for a quick arrival? Or are you looking to save money and don't mind a longer journey with transfers? Understanding your priorities will greatly simplify your decision-making process.
For the Time-Conscious Traveler: Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and pre-booked private shuttles will be your best bet.
For the Budget-Savvy Explorer: Public transportation (CTA and Metra) offers the most economical options, though they require more time and potentially transfers.
For the Convenience Seeker: Rideshares and shuttles provide door-to-door service, minimizing hassle.
Once you have your priority in mind, you can proceed to the specific steps for each transportation method.
Step 2: Navigating the Roads - Taxis, Rideshares, and Private Vehicles
If you prefer a direct, often quicker route, private transportation is the way to go.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
Sub-heading: Taxis from Midway
Taxis are readily available at Midway Airport. Look for the designated taxi stands on the lower level curb front outside of baggage claim.
How to:
Follow signs to the Taxi Stand: After collecting your luggage, follow the overhead signs for "Taxis." These will lead you to the designated pickup area outside the terminal.
Queue up: Taxis operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Join the queue and wait for the next available cab.
Inform your driver: Clearly state your destination as "Northwestern University in Evanston." Be specific if you have a particular building or dorm in mind.
Payment: Fares are metered and will vary based on traffic. An average fare from Midway to Evanston can range from $50-$70. Be aware that tolls may also be added to the fare. Most taxis accept credit cards, but it's always good to confirm with the driver before starting the trip.
Sub-heading: Rideshares (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are popular and convenient options, often offering a slightly lower cost than traditional taxis.
How to:
Download the App: Ensure you have the Uber or Lyft app downloaded on your smartphone and an active account set up with a payment method.
Request your ride: Once you've landed and are ready to leave, open the app and input "Northwestern University, Evanston, IL" as your destination.
Choose your ride type: You'll be presented with various options (e.g., UberX, Lyft Standard, UberXL, Lyft XL) with estimated fares. Select the one that suits your needs and budget.
Follow in-app instructions for pickup: The app will direct you to a designated rideshare pickup zone at Midway. These zones are usually clearly marked and located on the lower level, often separate from the regular taxi stands. Pay attention to the specific zone (e.g., Blue Zone A, Green Zone C) that your app instructs you to go to.
Confirm your ride: Before getting into the car, always verify the license plate number, car make/model, and driver's name with what's displayed in your app. This is a crucial safety step.
Relax and ride: Enjoy your direct ride to Northwestern. The average fare for UberX to Evanston is around $60, but prices can fluctuate due to surge pricing during high demand.
Sub-heading: Driving Yourself (Rental Cars)
If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car is an option.
How to:
Book in advance: It's highly recommended to book your rental car online before your arrival at Midway to secure the best rates and ensure availability.
Locate rental car shuttles: After collecting your luggage, follow signs for "Rental Car Shuttles." These shuttles will transport you from the terminal to the off-site rental car facility.
Pick up your car: Complete the necessary paperwork at the rental car counter and pick up your vehicle.
Navigate to Northwestern: Use a GPS or mapping app (Google Maps, Waze) for directions. The most common route will involve taking I-55 N, then merging onto I-90 W/I-94 W (Kennedy Expressway), which turns into I-94 W (Edens Expressway) as you head north. You'll then take an exit for Evanston, likely Old Orchard Road or Touhy Avenue, and follow local roads to campus. Driving time is typically 45 minutes to an hour without heavy traffic.
Step 3: Embracing Public Transit - A Cost-Effective Journey
For budget-conscious travelers, Chicago's public transportation system offers a viable, albeit longer, route to Northwestern. This involves using a combination of CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) trains and potentially buses.
Sub-heading: CTA Trains (Orange Line + Transfers)
This is the most common public transit route.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
How to:
Take the Orange Line from Midway: At Midway Airport, follow signs for "CTA Trains" or "Orange Line." The Orange Line station is connected directly to the airport terminal. Purchase a Ventra Card or use a contactless payment method.
Ride the Orange Line to the Loop: Take the Orange Line train towards "The Loop." This ride takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
Transfer to the Red Line: Get off the Orange Line at a Loop station such as Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren or State/Lake. Follow signs to transfer to the Red Line train. You'll need to take the Red Line northbound towards "Howard."
Transfer to the Purple Line: Ride the Red Line to the Howard station, which is the last stop on the Red Line northbound. At Howard, transfer to the Purple Line train towards "Linden." The Purple Line runs directly to Evanston, with several stops near the Northwestern campus (e.g., Davis, Foster, Noyes, Central).
Arrive in Evanston: Exit at the most convenient Purple Line station for your specific destination on the Northwestern campus. From Davis station, the campus is a short walk or a quick ride on a local bus.
Approximate Travel Time: This entire journey can take anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on transfer times and train schedules.
Cost: A single CTA fare is typically around $2.50-$5.00 (prices can vary and may include transfer fees), making it a very economical option.
Sub-heading: Pace Bus (Route 250) + CTA/Walk
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While less direct from Midway, the Pace bus system offers another public transit option.
How to:
Take an Airport Shuttle to Lot E: From the Midway terminals, take a shuttle bus to the long-term parking Lot E.
Board Pace Bus 250 (Dempster St): From Lot E, catch the Pace Bus Route 250 (Dempster St). This bus will take you to Evanston.
Arrive at CTA Davis Station: Pace Bus 250 drops off near the CTA Davis station in Evanston, which is a short walk (approximately 0.3 miles) from parts of the Northwestern campus.
Approximate Travel Time: This route can take approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Cost: A single Pace bus fare is around $1.75.
Step 4: Considering Convenience and Special Services - Shuttles
For a balance of convenience and potentially lower cost than a private taxi, shuttle services are a good choice.
Sub-heading: Airport Express (GO Airport Express)
GO Airport Express offers shared-ride shuttle services directly from Midway to various universities, including Northwestern.
How to:
Book in advance: It's highly recommended to reserve your spot online at least 24 hours before your flight for the best rates and guaranteed service.
Locate pickup area: Upon arrival at Midway, follow the instructions provided by GO Airport Express for your specific pickup location. This is typically on the lower level, often near baggage claim or designated shuttle areas.
Board the shuttle: Once you've confirmed your reservation and found your shuttle, board and enjoy the ride. The shuttle will make multiple stops to drop off other passengers, so it may not be a direct route.
Approximate Travel Time: Travel time can vary greatly depending on the number of stops and traffic, but expect it to be longer than a direct taxi/rideshare, potentially 1.5 to 2 hours.
Cost: Shared rides typically cost around $30-$40, making them a cost-effective option for single travelers who want door-to-door service without the higher price of a private car. Student discounts may also be available.
Sub-heading: Pre-arranged Suburban Taxis/Limos
Some suburban taxi companies offer flat rates for trips between the airports and Evanston.
How to:
Book by phone or app in advance: Companies like American Taxi may offer pre-arranged flat rates. You'll need to call them or use their app to book your ride.
Designated pickup zones: Unlike city taxis that can be hailed at the stand, pre-arranged suburban taxis will pick you up at designated loading zones outside the terminals. The company will provide specific instructions.
Cost: Flat rates can be competitive, sometimes around $30-$40, but confirm all details (including tolls and potential surcharges) when booking.
No matter which option you choose, a little planning will go a long way in ensuring a smooth journey from Midway Airport to Northwestern University!
Frequently Asked Questions
QuickTip: Use posts like this as quick references.
How to get from Midway Airport to Northwestern University by public transportation?
You can take the CTA Orange Line from Midway to the Loop, then transfer to the Red Line northbound to Howard, and finally transfer to the Purple Line (towards Linden) to reach Northwestern University stations in Evanston (e.g., Davis, Foster).
How to calculate the cost of a taxi from Midway Airport to Northwestern University?
Taxi fares from Midway to Northwestern University are metered and typically range from $50-$70, depending on traffic conditions and tolls. It's best to confirm with the driver if you're concerned about the exact fare.
How to find Uber or Lyft pickup spots at Midway Airport?
After requesting your ride on the Uber or Lyft app, the app will provide specific instructions and direct you to the designated rideshare pickup zones on the lower level of the airport terminals. Always verify the car and driver details before entering the vehicle.
How to minimize travel time from Midway to Northwestern University?
For the quickest travel, taking a taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or a pre-arranged private shuttle is generally the fastest option, as they offer direct routes.
How to book a shuttle service from Midway to Northwestern University?
You can book shuttle services, such as GO Airport Express, online through their website. It's advisable to reserve your spot at least 24 hours in advance.
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
How to travel from Midway to Northwestern University on a budget?
The most budget-friendly option is public transportation via the CTA Orange, Red, and Purple Lines, costing around $2.50-$5.00 for the entire journey.
How to get to Northwestern University if I arrive at Midway late at night?
Taxis and rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) operate 24/7. Public transportation may have reduced service or different schedules late at night, so check the CTA website for specific late-night timetables.
How to know which Northwestern University campus stop to use on the Purple Line?
The Purple Line has several stops in Evanston near Northwestern University, including Davis, Foster, Noyes, and Central. Consult a campus map or your specific destination within Northwestern to determine the most convenient stop.
How to get around Evanston after arriving at Northwestern University from Midway?
Evanston is a walkable city, and Northwestern's campus is also very pedestrian-friendly. The CTA Purple Line and various Pace bus routes serve the Evanston area, making it easy to get around.
How to check for traffic conditions when traveling from Midway to Northwestern University?
Before your trip, use a mapping app like Google Maps or Waze, which provide real-time traffic updates and estimated travel times, allowing you to plan accordingly.
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