How long does it take to walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 at O Hare?

O’Hare’s Terminal Tango: How Long is the Walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3?

Planning a connecting flight at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport? Navigating between terminals can feel daunting, but the journey between the domestic terminals—specifically Terminals 1, 2, and 3—is surprisingly straightforward. Forget frantic sprints and stressful dashes; a relaxed pace is entirely achievable.

The terminals are interconnected via a network of indoor walkways, thoughtfully supplemented by helpful moving sidewalks and escalators that ease the transition. This well-designed system makes transferring between terminals a much smoother experience than many other large airports.

So, how long does it take to walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3? The answer depends on your exact starting and ending points within each terminal, as well as your walking speed. However, a reasonable estimate for a leisurely stroll between the furthest points of Terminals 1 and 3 is twenty minutes.

This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace, with time to take in the airport’s architecture, perhaps grab a quick coffee, or simply avoid rushing. If you’re pressed for time, or prefer a quicker route, you can certainly shave off a few minutes by maintaining a brisk walk and utilizing the moving walkways strategically. But twenty minutes provides a comfortable buffer, accounting for any potential delays or unexpected detours.

Remember to always check the airport’s digital displays for updated gate information and potential route changes. While the walkways are generally well-signposted, a quick glance at a departure board will ensure you’re heading in the right direction and allow ample time to reach your gate.

In short, the walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 at O’Hare is a manageable and, in fact, quite pleasant experience. Allocate twenty minutes, and you’ll likely find the journey stress-free.