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For many Norwegians, a trip to Chicago is more than just a city break—it is a journey to a region that feels strangely familiar. As the cultural and economic capital of the American Midwest, Chicago has deep ties to Scandinavian heritage. Whether you are traveling to marvel at the world-famous architecture, digging into a deep-dish pizza, or visiting relatives in the "Norske" communities of the Midwest, the journey starts here.
Flying from Oslo (OSL) to Chicago (ORD) is a transatlantic bridge connecting you to one of America's most dynamic cities. At Ready2Go, we specialize in making this long-haul journey seamless. We understand that flying to the US involves complex logistics, and we are here to ensure your trip is secure, efficient, and perfectly planned.
Chicago O'Hare is one of the world's busiest aviation hubs. Navigating the route from Norway requires expertise to ensure you get the best value and the smoothest experience.
1. Expert Route Planning
While direct flights may be seasonal or rare, the route is well-served by high-quality connections via major European hubs like Copenhagen, Frankfurt, or London. Our travel experts analyze these options daily. We know which connections offer the most comfortable transfer times—avoiding the stress of sprinting through a terminal or waiting six hours for a layover. We optimize your itinerary to get you to the "Windy City" as fast as possible.
2. Navigating US Entry (ESTA)
Entering the United States requires strict documentation. As your local Norwegian experts, we guide you through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) process. We ensure you understand the requirements and timelines for approval before you even pack your bags, saving you from stressful surprises at Gardermoen.
3. Local Support for Global Travel
Chicago is 7 hours behind Norway. If you encounter an issue—like a missed connection due to snow in the Midwest or a lost hotel reservation—you need a partner who is awake and ready to help. Our team provides a safety net, advocating on your behalf with airlines to resolve disruptions quickly. We provide the personal touch that automated booking sites cannot match.
Departure from Gardermoen:
Your American adventure begins at Oslo Airport.
Ready2Go Tip: Transatlantic flights often require additional security interviews at the gate. We recommend arriving at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure.
Baggage: If you are planning a shopping spree on the Magnificent Mile, let us help you book a fare class that includes extra checked baggage for the return trip!
Arrival at O'Hare International Airport (ORD):
You will land at O'Hare, a massive hub located northwest of the city.
The Blue Line: Chicago has excellent public transport. The CTA "Blue Line" train runs 24 hours a day directly from the airport terminal to the downtown "Loop" district. It is cheap, reliable, and avoids the notorious Chicago traffic.
Transfers: If you are heading to the suburbs or starting a road trip, we can advise on car rentals. The Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) at O'Hare consolidates all rental cars in one place, accessible via a short train ride from the terminal.
Chicago is a city of "big shoulders," stunning skylines, and genuine hospitality.
Architecture River Cruise: This is the #1 activity in Chicago for a reason. Cruising down the Chicago River while learning about the skyscrapers that invented the modern skyline is breathtaking.
The Food Scene: You have to try the Deep Dish Pizza (Giordano's or Lou Malnati's), but don't miss the Chicago-style hot dog (no ketchup allowed!) or the Italian Beef sandwich. The city is also home to world-class fine dining in the West Loop.
Museums: The Art Institute of Chicago is legendary, housing some of the most famous paintings in the world. The Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium are fantastic for families.
The Lakefront: Lake Michigan is so big it looks like the ocean. The 18-mile Lakefront Trail is perfect for cycling or walking, offering stunning views of the city against the water.
To ensure your Midwest adventure is flawless, here is some expert advice from our team:
Weather Wisdom: Chicago winters are brutal—often colder and windier than Oslo. If you travel between December and March, pack your heaviest winter gear. Conversely, summers are hot and humid.
Tipping: Tipping is mandatory in the US. Expect to tip 18-22% in restaurants and
1−1−2 per drink at bars.
Safety: Chicago is a big city. While downtown (The Loop, River North, Magnificent Mile) is generally safe, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to populated, well-lit areas.
Power: Don't forget your US power adapter (Type A/B).
Business Travelers: Chicago is a major convention hub (McCormick Place). We offer flexible corporate ticketing that allows for schedule changes, ensuring you can adapt if your conference schedule shifts.
VFR (Visiting Friends & Relatives): Many Norwegians have family in Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Illinois. We help find flights that connect easily to regional airports or align with car rental pickup for the drive to visit relatives.
Architecture Buffs: Planning a specialized architecture tour? We can structure your trip to maximize your daylight hours for photography and sightseeing.
From the Cloud Gate ("The Bean") to the blues clubs of Kingston Mines, Chicago awaits. Let Ready2Go handle the logistics.
Contact Ready2Go Today
Smart Connections: The best routes from Oslo.
ESTA Guidance: Help with US entry rules.
Travel Safe: Your local partner for USA travel.
