Car hire in Chicago

On this page you’ll get tips and advice on car hire in Chicago, and the cheapest rental cars at guaranteed lowest prices. If this is your first time renting a car in the U.S., please read our general tips on car hire in the country via the link below.

Car hire in USA

Car hire at Chicago Airport

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (airport code: ORD) was the busiest airport in the world by the number of takeoffs and landings in 2014. The airport is about 17 miles northwest of central Chicago. It is often called one of the best airports in the U.S.

There are several good car hire possibilities at O’Hare Airport. Twelve major car rental firms have offices at the airport. These offices are not inside the actual airport building, but you can easily get to them by taking the free shuttle bus.

You’ll find the shuttle buses right outside the exit at baggage reclaim. They are clearly marked out and easy to find. What car rental firm operates each bus is also well marked out. In short, the shuttle bus service and renting a car at the airport is very smooth and easy.

Where to go around Chicago

Chicago is the largest city in the state of Illinois, and there are several interesting towns, national parks and other sights within comfortable driving distance from the city. Getting around Illinois by car is very smooth, and you’ll be able to make stops along the way and discover places that you might otherwise have missed. Below we’ll mention a few of our favourite spots in Illinois.

Peoria
The city of Peoria is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Chicago, and is the seventh largest city in Illinois. Peoria has a lot of history and different monuments. There are several interesting museums, including the Wheels o’ Time Museum and the Peoria Riverfront Museum. The beautiful Glean Oak Park, which has a zoo, is also worth a visit.

Galena
About three hours west of Chicago is the cosy town of Galena. In Galena, you can walk down a preserved historic street from turn of the century, and you can visit the old hardware shops and cafes on the street. The city also arranges a large craft fair that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Devil’s Lake State Park
The amazing Devil’s Lake State Park is in the state of Wisconsin, about a three-hour drive from Chicago. The area has very beautiful scenery, with the Devil’s Lake in the centre. Camping is also possible in the Park, and there are several nice footpaths.