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CHO destination photo
ORD destination photo

CHOORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the Shenandoah National Park ridge line immediately after takeoff and provides the iconic 'lakefront' approach into Chicago, showcasing the Lake Michigan shoreline and the city's famous skyline during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

Shenandoah National Park

Breathtaking views of the Skyline Drive and the dense forest canopy of the Appalachian ridge right after takeoff.

💧

Potomac Headwaters

The winding curves of the North Branch Potomac River carving through the mountainous terrain of the WV-MD border.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

A stunning transition from the Indiana dunes to the deep blue expanse of the Great Lakes during the descent.

🎡

Navy Pier & Downtown

The classic aerial view of Chicago's lakefront, including Navy Pier and the Hancock Center, often seen during the base leg of the landing.

🏗️

Gary & Port of Indiana

Industrial landscapes and massive shipping ports visible along the southern tip of Lake Michigan.

The right side is the clear winner for the 'Chicago Experience.' Choose this side for evening flights to see the city lights reflecting off Lake Michigan. Be aware that seasonal lake effect clouds can sometimes obscure the view in winter, but on clear days, the descent over the water is spectacular.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Dramatic views of the rolling peaks of the southern Blue Ridge range shortly after departing Charlottesville.

🚜

Shenandoah Valley

A vast patchwork of green pastures and historic farmsteads stretching toward the southern horizon.

🛤️

Appalachian Plateau

The deeply eroded, tree-covered plateaus of West Virginia and eastern Ohio, featuring winding river valleys.

🏙️

Willis Tower

Direct views of the tallest building in Chicago if the aircraft approaches O'Hare from the south or southwest.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains without glare. During the final approach, if the plane enters from the south, this side provides a close-up view of the dense urban sprawl of the Chicago suburbs and the towering skyscrapers of the Loop.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 910 km (565 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: CHO (38.13859939575195, -78.4529037475586)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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