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CMH destination photo
ORD destination photo

CMHORD

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the clear winner for this route, providing a spectacular close-up of the Chicago skyline, the Willis Tower, and the Lake Michigan shoreline during the final approach into O'Hare.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

A premier view of the Willis Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers in the downtown Loop area during descent.

🏟️

Soldier Field

The iconic stadium and the surrounding Museum Campus are visible along the lakefront for many landing patterns.

🌊

Lake Shore Drive

A beautiful perspective of the winding coastal highway and the green parks that separate the city from the lake.

🏗️

Gary Steel Mills

Observe the massive industrial complex and dramatic infrastructure at the southern tip of Lake Michigan.

🏡

Western Columbus

Detailed views of the suburban layouts of Hilliard and Upper Arlington immediately after departure from CMH.

For the most iconic photos of the Chicago skyline, choose a seat on the left side and try to fly during the late afternoon; the low sun casts a golden light over the city's glass towers. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure your view of the lakeshore is not obstructed.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🛶

Alum Creek State Park

Clear views of the large reservoir and wooded areas north of Columbus during the initial climb out of Ohio.

🏢

Fort Wayne

The urban center of northeastern Indiana is frequently visible to the north during the cruising phase of the flight.

🌊

Lake Michigan Horizon

Expansive views of the vast, open water stretching toward the northern horizon as the plane nears Illinois.

🏖️

North Shore Coastline

Views of the affluent suburbs and beaches of Evanston and Wilmette if the flight path tracks north of the city.

The right side is the best choice for morning flights as it stays in the shade, preventing glare on your window and making it easier to spot landmarks. This side also offers a great bird's-eye view of O'Hare's massive runway and terminal layout if landing on the northern runways.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 475 km (295 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 48 min

Departure: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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