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CLE destination photo
ORD destination photo

CLEORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a world-class view of the Chicago skyline, including the Willis Tower and Navy Pier, as the flight descends over Lake Michigan into O'Hare.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Sears (Willis) Tower, John Hancock Center, and the dense cluster of skyscrapers in the Loop.

🎡

Navy Pier

The historic pier and its famous Centennial Wheel are clearly visible jutting into the blue waters of Lake Michigan.

🏟️

Soldier Field

The unique architecture of the Chicago Bears stadium stands out prominently on the lakefront.

🏗️

Gary Industrial Zone

A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and industrial landscape along the southern tip of Lake Michigan.

🌊

Museum Campus

Bird's-eye view of the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum gathered on the shore.

Book a window seat on the left (Port) side for the 'skyline approach.' This is most effective during West-flow landings (Runways 27 or 28). Evening flights are spectacular as the city lights reflect off the lake. If the flight path stays south of the city, you will see the sprawling suburban grid of northern Indiana and Illinois.

Right Side Highlights
6.2
🌊

Lake Erie Coast

Immediately after takeoff from CLE, enjoy views of the shoreline and the vast expanse of the first Great Lake on your route.

🏖️

Indiana Dunes

The protected shoreline of the Indiana Dunes National Park offers a contrast of sand and greenery against the lake.

🕍

Baha'i House of Worship

Depending on the approach path, you may spot the stunning white lace-like dome of this temple in Wilmette.

✈️

O'Hare Airfield

A massive perspective of the complex runway system and terminals of one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.

The right side is better for seeing the natural beauty of the Great Lakes coastlines. It is particularly good for sunset views on evening flights as you head west. Watch for the dramatic change from the rural Ohio/Indiana landscapes to the densely populated North Shore suburbs of Chicago during the final descent.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 507 km (315 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 51 min

Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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