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STL → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from St Louis Lambert International Airport (St. Louis) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (usually F seats) offers the most iconic views including the St. Louis Arch upon departure and a spectacular approach past the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan before landing at O'Hare.
Search flights from STL to ORD
The Gateway Arch
Look back shortly after takeoff for a view of the 630-foot silver monument and the St. Louis downtown core.
River Confluence
See the exact point where the dark waters of the Missouri River merge with the Mississippi River.
Springfield Landmarks
Catch a glimpse of the Illinois State Capitol dome and the Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield.
Chicago Skyline
On the classic 'lake approach,' get a breathtaking view of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and Navy Pier.
Lake Michigan
View the vast, turquoise horizon of the lake as the plane banks over the water for final alignment.
The right side is the clear winner for scenic views. For the best chance at the Chicago skyline, hope for an arrival that circles over Lake Michigan. Evening flights are particularly beautiful as the sun sets to the west, illuminating the Chicago skyscrapers in gold and orange hues.
Book Hotels in ChicagoMississippi River Valley
Follow the winding path of the mighty Mississippi as it meanders north along the Illinois border.
Chain of Rocks Bridge
Spot the historic bridge with its unique 22-degree bend crossing the river north of St. Louis.
Illinois Prairie
Enjoy a birds-eye view of the vast, geometric patterns of the Midwestern agricultural heartland.
Western Suburbs
As you descend, watch the sprawl of Naperville and Schaumburg emerge as you approach O'Hare from the west.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side is better if the flight path approaches O'Hare from the west or south, offering a clear view of the complex interstate interchanges near the airport.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 415 km (258 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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