Can I tap with a foreign bank card?

Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.

Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.

MDWUnited StatesTPL: fare-hacker-playbook

Chicago Midway International Airport

Chicago, United States

Drop-off

The Loop (downtown Chicago)

Pin before customs

Fastest

CTA Orange Line ‘L’ (Midway – Loop)

metro · 8-15m

Data

Nov 28

Audit

Quick verdict

Fastest into town

Service: CTA Orange Line ‘L’ (Midway – Loop)
Headway: 8-15
Backup: CTA N62 Archer (overnight Orange Line substitute) · 15-30m

Note

Rapid transit train from Midway station (via enclosed walkway from terminal) to downtown Loop stations such as Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren, LaSalle/Van Buren, Quincy, Washington/Wells and Clark/Lake in about 20–25 minutes. Operates approximately 03:30–01:05 on weekdays, 04:00–01:05 Saturdays, and 04:30–01:05 Sundays/holidays, with overnight N62 Archer bus providing substitute service when trains do not run.

Budget focus

Chicago: Fare Hacker Playbook

Ways to shave costs without blowing your schedule. Targets queries likechicago airport busandmdw to city centerfor eSIM funnels.

Cheapest viable route

Brief

Usually slower but dramatically cheaper than the flagship airport express.

Service: CTA N62 Archer (overnight Orange Line substitute)
Mode: bus
Freq: 15-30m
Note: Overnight CTA bus linking Midway and the Southwest Side to the Loop via Archer Avenue when the Orange Line is not operating, serving downtown stops near the central business district. Useful for late-night or very early-morning trips between Midway and downtown when trains are not running.

Passes and bundles

Brief

Look for day passes that include the airport zone plus metro, tram, or ferry transfers. Load value online to avoid kiosk surcharges.

When to splurge

Brief

Worth the premium when you have back-to-back meetings or tight onward connections downtown.

Service: CTA Orange Line ‘L’ (Midway – Loop)
Mode: metro
Freq: 8-15m
Note: Rapid transit train from Midway station (via enclosed walkway from terminal) to downtown Loop stations such as Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren, LaSalle/Van Buren, Quincy, Washington/Wells and Clark/Lake in about 20–25 minutes. Operates approximately 03:30–01:05 on weekdays, 04:00–01:05 Saturdays, and 04:30–01:05 Sundays/holidays, with overnight N62 Archer bus providing substitute service when trains do not run.

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FAQs

01Can I tap with a foreign bank card?: Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.
02Any luggage fees?: Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.