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ORD destination photo
CLE destination photo

ORD β†’ CLE

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views, including the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during departure, and the Cleveland shoreline and city center during the approach to CLE.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
πŸ™οΈ

Chicago Skyline

Unobstructed views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers immediately following an eastbound takeoff from O'Hare.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

The plane typically hugs the southern curve of the lake, offering views of the blue expanse and the Indiana coast.

πŸ–οΈ

Indiana Dunes

Look for the unique sand formations and wetlands of Indiana Dunes National Park along the southern tip of the lake.

⛴️

Lake Erie Horizon

As you cruise toward Ohio, the vast waters of Lake Erie become the primary view as you descend from the northwest.

πŸŒ†

Downtown Cleveland

On final approach, you'll see the Key Tower, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Book a window seat on the left for the 'Chicago turn'β€”most eastbound flights bank over the lake, offering a panoramic view of the city. Morning flights provide excellent lighting on the Cleveland skyline during arrival, while evening flights capture the sunset reflecting off the Great Lakes.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🏭

Gary Industrial Zone

A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure along the Indiana coastline.

🚜

Midwest Farmland

A geometric quilt of agricultural fields across Northern Indiana and Ohio during the mid-flight cruise.

🏟️

South Bend

On clear days, you can spot the University of Notre Dame campus and its famous football stadium.

🎒

Cedar Point

If the flight path is slightly north, you may see the roller coasters of Sandusky protruding into Lake Erie.

🏑

Cleveland Suburbs

A bird's-eye view of the dense residential greenery and neighborhoods of the 'Forest City' during descent.

The right side is better if you prefer viewing the inland geography and industrial history of the Rust Belt. During the winter, the right side often shows interesting snow patterns across the Indiana farmlands and 'lake effect' cloud formations.

Top Activities in Cleveland
Route Information

Distance: 507 km (315 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 51 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)

Route Type: Domestic

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