Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the world.

My first impression when visiting O'Hare was 'vastness.' It felt not just like an airport with many planes and people, but like a complex and systematic city.

O'Hare Airport is located northwest of downtown Chicago, about 25 km away. It takes 30 to 40 minutes by car, and about 45 minutes by Blue Line subway to reach downtown. The airport is enormous, with 4 terminals (1, 2, 3, 5) and 8 runways, handling over 2,000 flights daily.

It is also a hub for American Airlines and United Airlines, offering a wide variety of international routes connecting not only domestic flights but also to Europe, Asia, and South America. The terminal I arrived at, Terminal 5, is primarily an international terminal, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with languages and scents from around the world.

Walking through the airport, the phrase 'crossroads of the world' fits perfectly. Travelers from various countries move busily to their destinations, and the signs are displayed in English, Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese. Chicago is centrally located in the U.S., so many passengers transfer here to reach other cities. As a result, the airport atmosphere is always lively, with lights on 24 hours a day, regardless of the time.

There is a variety of restaurants and shops. Global brands like Starbucks and McDonald's are present, as well as local favorites like Giordano's, known for Chicago-style pizza, and Garrett Popcorn Shop. Enjoying a slice of Chicago-style pizza or butter popcorn before or after a long flight is another joy of traveling.

Another impressive aspect of O'Hare Airport is its 'artistic sensibility.' The underground pedestrian walkway connecting the terminals features installation art with sparkling neon lights, resembling an art gallery within the airport. Particularly, the 'Sky's the Limit' light installation in Terminal 1's United Concourse B is famous as a photo spot. Walking through that long corridor with colorful lights reflecting feels like walking in a futuristic city.

The airport system is efficient. Automated check-in kiosks, self-baggage drop, and mobile boarding pass systems are well-equipped, making it easy for even those unfamiliar with airport use. TSA security checks are thorough, but the staff is relatively friendly, and the guidance is clear. U.S. immigration can take some time, but using Global Entry or the mobile passport app allows for quicker passage.

If you have a long wait before your flight, using the airport lounges is a good option. There are various lounges, including American Airlines Admirals Club and United Polaris Lounge, with dining, shower, and relaxation areas well provided. The United lounge, in particular, has a great view, allowing you to see departing planes right in front of you. The lively scene of the runway outside the window feels like a massive stage.

One of the advantages of O'Hare Airport is its transportation connectivity. The rental car center is integrated, and the Blue Line subway connects directly to the airport, making it convenient to travel to downtown Chicago or the suburbs. Inside the airport, there is an automated train called the Airport Transit System (ATS) that connects the terminals, running every few minutes, making transfers very convenient.

When I first visited O'Hare, I was overwhelmed by its size and crowds, but by the time I returned, I had strangely grown accustomed to it and felt a sense of attachment. I realized that the airport is not just a departure point but a 'city within a city' where countless stories intersect.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is not just an aviation gateway but a space where you can feel the energy of Chicago and the flow of the world.