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ART destination photo
ORD destination photo

ARTORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft typically offers a superior view of the Chicago skyline during the final approach into O'Hare, along with potential distant views of Niagara Falls and the Lake Erie shoreline.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Lake Ontario Coastline

Vibrant blue waters and the scenic coastline of upstate New York immediately following departure from Watertown.

🌈

Niagara Falls

On clear days, the mist and massive scale of Niagara Falls can be spotted to the south as you pass Buffalo.

🏙️

Cleveland & Lake Erie

Broad views of the southern shore of Lake Erie, highlighting the industrial and urban landscape of northern Ohio.

🌆

Chicago Skyline

A spectacular view of the Willis Tower and lakefront skyscrapers as the plane descends over Lake Michigan toward ORD.

🏖️

Indiana Dunes

The distinct sandy peaks of the southern Lake Michigan shoreline visible just before the final turn into Chicago.

Choose the left side for the best chance to see the Chicago skyline. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the landscape and city buildings perfectly. Keep an eye out about 20 minutes after takeoff for Niagara Falls.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🇨🇦

Toronto Skyline

A stunning distant view of the CN Tower and Toronto's dense urban core across the expanse of Lake Ontario.

🚜

Ontario Farmlands

The intricate, geometric patterns of southern Ontario's agricultural heartland between the Great Lakes.

💧

Lake St. Clair

The unique shape of this smaller lake nestled between Lake Huron and Lake Erie, often showing vibrant turquoise hues.

🏙️

Detroit & Windsor

The international border crossing, including the Ambassador Bridge and the skylines of both Detroit and Windsor.

⚓

Lake Michigan Shoreline

The northern approach provides vast views of the lake's deep waters and the Michigan/Wisconsin coastlines.

The right side is excellent for viewing the Canadian side of the Great Lakes. For sunset flights, this side offers dramatic orange and pink horizons over the water. Watch for the Toronto skyline shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 991 km (616 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min

Departure: ART (43.99190139770508, -76.02169799804688)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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