Chicago (MDW) To Newark (EWR) Flights: Your Complete Guide

by Jhon Lennon 59 views

Hey guys! Planning a trip from the Windy City to the Garden State? Specifically, are you looking for flights from Chicago Midway to Newark, NJ? You've landed in the right spot! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your journey smooth and stress-free. From airlines and flight options to airport tips and things to do in Newark, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

Airlines that Fly from Chicago Midway to Newark

When searching for flights from Chicago Midway to Newark, several airlines typically offer service. While routes and availability can change, here are some airlines you'll commonly find operating this route:

  • Southwest Airlines: Southwest is a major player at Chicago Midway (MDW), so it's often a go-to option for travelers. They are known for their flexible baggage policies (two free checked bags!) and no change fees, which can be a big plus if your plans are subject to change. Southwest often offers multiple daily flights from Chicago Midway to Newark, providing a range of departure times to suit your schedule. Keep an eye out for their sales, as you can sometimes snag a really good deal. Remember that Southwest doesn't list their flights on third-party booking sites, so you'll need to visit their website directly to check availability and prices. Flying Southwest can be a more relaxed experience; they are really trying to add some value to your flight.

  • Other Airlines: While Southwest is dominant, other airlines might occasionally offer flights from Chicago Midway to Newark, especially during peak travel seasons. These might include airlines operating flights in conjunction with Southwest or smaller regional carriers. It's always a good idea to do a thorough search on flight comparison websites to see if any of these options pop up. These other airlines may have different baggage fees, seating arrangements, and in-flight amenities compared to Southwest, so compare and see what works for you.

Finding the Best Flight Deals

Okay, so you know which airlines fly from Chicago Midway to Newark, but how do you snag the best flight deals? Here's the lowdown:

  • Be Flexible with Your Dates: This is the golden rule of cheap flights. If your travel dates are flexible, experiment with different departure and return dates. Even shifting your travel by a day or two can sometimes result in significant savings. Use flight search engines that allow you to view a calendar of prices, so you can quickly identify the cheapest days to fly. Weekday flights (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) are often less expensive than weekend flights.

  • Book in Advance (But Not Too Far in Advance): While last-minute deals are rare, booking too early might also not get you the best price. As a general rule, start monitoring flight prices from Chicago Midway to Newark a few months before your trip. A sweet spot is often around 2-3 months in advance. Set up price alerts on flight comparison websites to track price changes and be notified when prices drop.

  • Consider Alternative Airports: While you're specifically looking at flights from Chicago Midway to Newark, it's worth checking flights from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Newark (EWR) as well. Sometimes, flights from O'Hare might be cheaper. However, factor in the cost and time of traveling to and from O'Hare, which is farther from downtown Chicago than Midway.

  • Use Flight Comparison Websites: There are tons of flight comparison websites out there, such as Google Flights, Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia. These sites allow you to search for flights from multiple airlines at once, making it easy to compare prices and find the best deal. Be sure to check multiple sites, as prices can vary.

  • Look for Package Deals: Sometimes, booking your flight and hotel together as a package can save you money. Check websites like Expedia or Priceline for package deals that include flights from Chicago Midway to Newark and accommodation in Newark or nearby New York City.

Navigating Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) is a bustling airport, but it's generally easier to navigate than its larger counterpart, O'Hare. Here are some tips to make your experience smoother:

  • Getting to the Airport: Midway is located about 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. You have several options for getting there: The CTA Orange Line provides direct train service from downtown Chicago to Midway Airport. It's an affordable and convenient option, especially if you're staying near an Orange Line station. Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available, but can be more expensive, especially during peak hours. If you're driving, Midway has several parking options, including hourly, daily, and economy lots. Check the airport's website for real-time parking availability and rates.

  • Security: Security lines at Midway can sometimes be long, especially during peak travel times. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time, especially if you're checking bags. Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to expedite the security screening process. These programs allow you to go through a dedicated security lane with fewer restrictions.

  • Food and Amenities: Midway offers a variety of food and beverage options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. You'll find familiar chains like Dunkin' Donuts, McDonald's, and Potbelly Sandwich Shop, as well as local eateries. The airport also has a variety of shops selling books, magazines, souvenirs, and travel essentials. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, so you can stay connected while you wait for your flight.

Arriving at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Once you've touched down after your flight from Chicago Midway to Newark, here's what you need to know about Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):

  • Getting from the Airport: Newark Airport is located about 15 miles southwest of Manhattan. You have several options for getting into the city or other parts of New Jersey: AirTrain Newark connects all three terminals to the Newark Airport train station. From there, you can take NJ Transit trains to New York Penn Station or other destinations in New Jersey. This is generally the most affordable option for getting into Manhattan. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, but can be expensive, especially during peak hours and depending on your destination. Shared ride vans offer a more affordable alternative to taxis, especially if you're traveling alone. Several bus services operate from Newark Airport to various destinations in New Jersey and New York City. Check the schedules and routes to see if a bus is a convenient option for you. If you're renting a car, the rental car center is located a short distance from the terminals. Shuttle buses provide transportation between the terminals and the rental car center.

  • Terminals: Newark Airport has three terminals (A, B, and C). Check your flight information to determine which terminal your flight from Chicago Midway will arrive at. Each terminal has its own selection of shops, restaurants, and amenities.

  • Things to Do in Newark: Newark is more than just an airport city! It's undergoing a revitalization and has some cool spots to check out: Visit the Newark Museum of Art, which has a diverse collection ranging from American art to works from around the world. Catch a performance at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), which hosts a variety of concerts, Broadway shows, and dance performances. Explore Branch Brook Park, which is famous for its cherry blossom trees. If you're visiting in the spring, the park is a stunning sight. Root for the home team at a New Jersey Devils hockey game at the Prudential Center. Visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a magnificent cathedral with stunning architecture and stained glass windows.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about flights from Chicago Midway to Newark. By following these tips, you can find the best flight deals, navigate the airports with ease, and even explore some of the attractions that Newark has to offer. Have a great trip, guys!