Almost 6 hour layover on our way to Spain!

Question

My sisters and I are going to be visiting my daughter in Spain next month. We have almost a six hour layover in Chicago. We have one checked bag between us, but it shouldn’t be a problem since our tickets were bought together through American Airlines. Is there somewhere close that we could go and see a little bit of Chicago? I think all of us have been there, but not extensively. Also, we’d love to pick up something for lunch. Any good Cuban restaurants nearby the airport? I saw Que Bola Cuban Café and it looks very good. I am obsessed with Vaca Frita and they have on the menu. We might also want to consider seafood. I also looked at Boston Seafood Market & Foxtail on the Lake. I don’t want to be stressed for time, so we are thinking outdoor activities that just let us see the city a little bit. We do not want to visit any museums or art galleries. Ideas?

Answer

With a 6-hour layover in Chicago, you definitely have enough time to get a taste of the city and enjoy some outdoor activities. Since you’re looking for a casual, outdoor experience with a good meal, here are some options that are close to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and easy to manage within your time frame:

1. Visit Lincoln Park and the Lakefront

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s largest and most beautiful green spaces, offering a nice escape from the airport without requiring a long commute. It’s about a 30-minute drive from O'Hare, and you can spend time walking around the park, enjoying Lake Michigan views, or even visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo (which is free). There are also several outdoor cafes and places to grab a light lunch in the area. It's a great spot to relax and stretch your legs, plus you’ll get a nice view of the city skyline over the lake.

2. Chicago's Millennium Park

If you’re looking to be closer to downtown, Millennium Park is a perfect option. It’s about 30-40 minutes from O'Hare by taxi or rideshare. It’s home to the famous "Cloud Gate" (aka "The Bean") and has plenty of open space for a stroll. You can also walk around the park and see some of the iconic sculptures, gardens, and even the Crown Fountain. Afterward, you can grab lunch at one of the nearby spots or take in some city views from the park. This area offers a nice mix of outdoor fun and Chicago culture without having to go inside a museum or gallery.

3. Navy Pier

Another option for outdoor activities is Navy Pier, which is about 30-40 minutes from O'Hare. This is a great place to get a feel for Chicago, with its waterfront views, shops, and restaurants. You can take a walk along the pier, and if you want, you could ride the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city and Lake Michigan. There are also outdoor seating areas where you can relax and enjoy the views. For lunch, you can try seafood or other local favorites at one of the many restaurants on the pier.

4. Grab Lunch at a Cuban Restaurant

For lunch, you mentioned Que Bola Cuban Café, which is a fantastic choice for Cuban cuisine and their Vaca Frita. It’s about a 25-minute drive from O'Hare, and you can expect authentic Cuban flavors and a casual atmosphere. If you’re craving seafood instead, the Boston Seafood Market & Foxtail on the Lake offer excellent seafood dishes. The drive from O'Hare to either of these restaurants would be around 20-30 minutes. Both options would give you a good chance to enjoy a relaxed meal while still having time to get back to the airport for your flight.

5. Stroll Along the Chicago Riverwalk

If you have a little extra time and prefer a more scenic walk, the Chicago Riverwalk is a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly pathway along the Chicago River in the downtown area. It’s about 40 minutes from O'Hare by taxi, and it’s a great way to get a feel for the city’s architecture and vibe. There are cafes and bars along the walk where you can grab a drink or snack, and you’ll be able to take in the city’s skyline from the river. It’s an easy, low-key way to experience the city without the need for any strenuous activity or indoor visits.

Tips for Time Management:

To avoid feeling rushed, I’d recommend focusing on either Lincoln Park or Millennium Park, as both are close to each other and not too far from the airport.
Plan to allow at least 30 minutes for the drive to your destination and 30-45 minutes to return to O'Hare for check-in and security. Aim to be back at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before your next flight.
If you want to keep it stress-free, consider using rideshare apps (Uber/Lyft), as they’ll help you manage your time efficiently between locations.

Conclusion:

For your six-hour layover, I’d recommend heading to Millennium Park or Navy Pier if you want a quick city taste. Both are close to restaurants and outdoor activities where you can enjoy the city’s beauty and grab a delicious meal. Que Bola Cuban Café is a great choice for Cuban food, and if you prefer seafood, either the Boston Seafood Market or Foxtail on the Lake will offer great options. Make sure to manage your time wisely so you can enjoy the city without feeling rushed! Have a great time on your layover and enjoy your trip to Spain!