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LEX destination photo
ORD destination photo

LEXORD

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the rolling estates of Kentucky and the iconic Chicago skyline against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🐎

Bluegrass Horse Farms

Beautiful views of the world-famous thoroughbred horse farms with their signature white and black fencing north of Lexington.

🚢

The Ohio River

Crossing the wide, meandering river that marks the boundary between Kentucky and Indiana.

🏖️

Indiana Dunes

The unique sandy shoreline and national park area at the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unparalleled views of the Willis Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers that define the Windy City's famous profile.

🎡

Navy Pier

Visible during the typical lakefront approach, featuring the iconic Centennial Wheel and waterfront docks.

For the best experience, request a window seat on the right side (Seat F on most regional jets). As you approach Chicago, the plane frequently flies over Lake Michigan before turning west into O'Hare, offering a 'grand tour' of the skyline. Morning flights are best for this side to see the city buildings illuminated by the eastern sun. In winter, look for shelf ice forming along the lake's edge.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏢

Lexington Downtown

A bird's-eye view of the Blue Grass Airport surroundings and the compact downtown core of Lexington shortly after takeoff.

🌽

Indiana Farmlands

Vast, geometric patterns of Midwestern agriculture that create a patchwork quilt effect across southern and central Indiana.

🏙️

Indianapolis Horizon

On clear days, the skyline of Indiana's capital is often visible in the distance to the west.

🏗️

Gary Industrial Works

The massive steel mills and heavy industrial infrastructure along the southern shore of Lake Michigan.

✈️

O'Hare Airfield

A direct view of the complex runway intersections and terminal gates during the final taxiing phase after landing.

The left side is ideal for photographers interested in the geometric beauty of the American Midwest's rural landscape. Choosing this side on afternoon flights helps avoid the harsh direct sunlight that typically hits the right side of the plane during the northward journey. It also provides a great view of the airport operations upon arrival at ORD.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 521 km (324 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: LEX (38.0364990234375, -84.60590362548828)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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