Loading map...

ORD destination photo
ATL destination photo

ORDATL

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior as it offers the best chance to see the Chicago skyline after takeoff and provides a more direct view of the urban centers in Indiana and Kentucky before approaching Atlanta.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Breathtaking views of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown skyscraper cluster shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

The transition from the urban sprawl to the vast blue expanse of the lake is visible during initial climb.

🏎️

Indianapolis

Clear views of the 'Crossroads of America' and potentially the Indianapolis Motor Speedway depending on the flight path.

🏇

Louisville & Ohio River

The winding Ohio River marks the border between Indiana and Kentucky, with the city of Louisville visible below.

🍑

Downtown Atlanta

On eastern approaches to ATL, the left side offers a stunning panorama of the Midtown and Downtown skylines.

Book a window seat in front of the wing for unobstructed views of the Chicago skyline. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Chicago skyline, while evening flights provide a beautiful view of the 'grid' street lighting across the Midwest.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌽

Midwestern Heartland

Extensive geometric patterns of Illinois and Indiana farmlands that look like a massive patchwork quilt.

🎸

Nashville

Views of the Cumberland River and the sprawling metropolitan area of Music City in central Tennessee.

🏞️

Cumberland Plateau

The terrain becomes noticeably more rugged and forested as you cross the elevated region of the Appalachian foothills.

🌲

Chattahoochee National Forest

Dense, rolling green canopy of the North Georgia wilderness as the plane begins its descent into the Atlanta area.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the horizon. It also provides a better view of the Appalachian foothills. Keep an eye out for the winding Tennessee River which creates distinct loops visible from 30,000 feet.

Top Activities in Atlanta
Route Information

Distance: 976 km (606 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.