Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the United States, serving as a major hub for United Airlines. If you're flying United, understanding the layout of the United Airlines ORD Terminal is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey. This guide offers a complete overview of the terminal, including its layout, amenities, maps, check-in procedures, lounges, dining options, and helpful tips for navigating the airport like a pro.
Overview of United Airlines at ORD
United Airlines operates primarily from Terminal 1 at Chicago O’Hare, with some flights operating from Terminal 2 (for regional services). Terminal 1 is United's main base at ORD and consists of two concourses:
Concourse B – Hosts most of the domestic and international flights.
Concourse C – A satellite concourse connected to B via an underground walkway.
Terminal 1 is designed to streamline United’s operations and provide travelers with a range of services, from expedited check-in to premium lounges and diverse dining options.
Terminal Map and Layout
Terminal 1 Map Highlights:
Concourse B (Gates B1–B24): Located on the main terminal building, features ticketing counters, security, and direct access to baggage claim.
Concourse C (Gates C1–C31): Reached via an underground pedestrian tunnel from Concourse B with moving walkways and neon art installation ("The Sky’s the Limit").
Tip: Always check your gate information upon arrival or via the United Airlines app, as gates and terminals may occasionally change due to operational needs.
United Airlines Check-In and Security
Check-In Areas
United offers several check-in options at Terminal 1:
Curbside check-in for quick drop-offs.
Full-service counters for baggage and special assistance.
Self-service kiosks for printing boarding passes and bag tags.
TSA Security Checkpoints
There are multiple TSA security checkpoints at the entrance of Terminal 1, which lead to either Concourse B or C. Expect moderate to high wait times during peak hours, though Premier Access and TSA PreCheck lanes are available for eligible passengers.
Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation
Baggage Claim
Baggage claim for United Airlines flights is located on the lower level of Terminal 1. Digital display boards will guide you to the correct carousel based on your arriving flight.
Transportation Options
Once you collect your baggage, you can access:
Rental car facilities
CTA Blue Line trains to downtown Chicago
Hotel shuttles
Rideshare pickup zones
Taxi stands
Airport buses and regional transportation
Follow signage for Ground Transportation on the lower level for a smooth exit.
United Airlines Lounges at ORD
One of the top features of the United Airlines ORD Terminal experience is access to its luxurious lounges, especially for premium-class travelers and MileagePlus members.
United Club Locations:
Concourse B (near Gate B6)
Concourse C (near Gate C16)
Features include:
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Refreshments and drinks
Quiet zones for work or relaxation
Business centers and conference rooms
United Polaris Lounge:
Located in Concourse C near Gate C18, the Polaris Lounge is exclusively for international business class passengers. It offers fine dining, spa-inspired showers, nap pods, and upscale workspaces.
Dining and Refreshments
Whether you have a short layover or a longer wait, Terminal 1 offers a variety of dining options.
Popular Dining Options in Terminal 1:
Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless (Concourse B) – Fresh Mexican cuisine
Starbucks (Multiple locations) – Coffee and light bites
Goose Island Beer Company (Concourse C) – Local craft beer and food
Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi (Concourse B) – Seafood and sushi favorites
Burrito Beach (Concourse B) – Quick Mexican-inspired meals
Plenty of snack kiosks and sit-down options are available depending on your mood and schedule.
Shopping and Retail Options
The United Airlines ORD Terminal also features a range of retail shops:
Hudson News – For books, snacks, and travel essentials
Duty-Free Shops (International gates) – For international travelers
Tech on the Go – Electronics and travel accessories
Chicago-themed gift shops – Pick up a souvenir before your flight
Services and Amenities
Wi-Fi and Charging
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 1. Charging stations are located near most gate areas and in lounges.
Family Services
Nursing rooms
Family restrooms
Changing stations
Children’s play area (limited but available near select gates)
Accessibility
ORD and United Airlines are committed to offering accessible travel. Services include:
Wheelchair assistance
Visual paging monitors
TTY phones
Braille signage
Service animal relief areas
Make sure to request assistance during booking or check-in if needed.
Tips for Navigating United Airlines ORD Terminal
Use the United app – It provides gate updates, baggage tracking, and mobile boarding passes.
Arrive early – ORD is a major hub, and lines can be long. Arrive 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights.
Use the pedestrian tunnel – The walkway between Concourses B and C features colorful neon lights and music, and connects the two sections of Terminal 1 efficiently.
Download the airport map – Especially helpful for first-time travelers.
Opt for Premier Access – If you fly frequently or hold elite status, it speeds up security and boarding.
United Airlines Regional Flights at Terminal 2
Some United Express (regional) flights operate out of Terminal 2, which is connected to Terminal 1 via a short walkway. It's important to verify your departure terminal beforehand, as shuttle time may be needed if you’re connecting.
Terminal Connections and Transfers
Between Terminals:
ORD has a landside (pre-security) Airport Transit System (ATS) which connects all four terminals (1 through 5), including the International Terminal (T5).
ATS runs every 5–15 minutes.
Travel time between terminals can take up to 15–20 minutes, especially if you're heading to/from Terminal 5.
Tip: If you're connecting from an international flight arriving in Terminal 5 to a domestic United flight in Terminal 1, allow at least 90 minutes due to immigration, customs, and terminal transfer.
Final Boarding and Gate Information
Final boarding announcements are made 15–30 minutes before scheduled departure. Boarding gates at the United Airlines ORD Terminal often have digital displays with real-time updates, so stay near your gate if delays or changes are possible.
You can also receive updates directly via text or the United app.
Future Upgrades and Developments
Chicago O’Hare is undergoing continuous upgrades, including the O’Hare 21 modernization plan. While most of Terminal 1 is currently unaffected, travelers can expect gradual enhancements in lounges, gates, and passenger services in the coming years.
United Airlines, being a major hub operator at ORD, is deeply involved in these upgrades to further improve passenger experience.
Conclusion
Flying through the United Airlines ORD Terminal can be a breeze if you understand the layout, know what to expect, and take advantage of the services available. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, United’s hub at Chicago O’Hare offers efficiency, comfort, and a wide range of amenities designed to enhance your airport experience.
From streamlined check-in and security to upscale lounges and vibrant dining options, Terminal 1 is your gateway to smooth travel. Always stay updated with your flight status, allow ample time for connections, and make the most of the facilities at your fingertips.