shazmac

Hi we are travelling from manchester to tombstone AZ in september and we have a 7hr layover in chicago.Are we allowed to leave the airport? my idea was to rent a room at the airport hotel so we can freshen up and possibly nap.However our luggage will automatically be put onto our next flight so as we have never been on a longhaul flight before i dont know the procedure re cusoms etc-can anyone help?

FrankS

You wll clear customs in ORD, so you can leave if you want and reenter. After customs, taking the rail to the main terminal and allowing for security to reenter you can have a few hours to rest. The Radisson seems to have the most frequent shuttle, but be aware its just an airport hotel

Citylghts

At O'Hare, you'll arrive in T5 and clear border inspection. As part of the US border process, you must claim your luggage.

Immediately after you leave the inspection area, you'll find counters for all the airlines to recheck your bags on your connecting flight. They'll also issue boarding passes and take care of anything else you need regarding your flight.

The time between your flights is entirely yours to do as you wish. If you were going directly to your flight, you'd head upstairs and take the tram to the domestic terminal, then go through security screening and proceed to your gate.

If you want to relax a while, there is a Hilton connected to the terminals. There are also several other hotels nearby and most offer shuttle service to the airport. If you only want the room for a few hours, comparison shop to see which has the amenities and price that appeals.

If you find yourself incredibly perky after your flight, you could always head into Chicago. You can take the Blue Line train into the city in about an hour. If you opt for that, follow the signs from the baggage claim level of the domestic terminals (T1-3) that say "CTA Trains to City." You could walk around a bit, grab a bite to eat, visit Millennium Park or stroll The Magnificant Mile-Chicago's main shopping district with stores ranging from H&M to Cartier and Chanel.

Citylghts

Forgot to mention if you're connecting BMI to United, Continental or US Airways, United and Continental flights leave from T1 and US Airways is in T2.

shazmac

thanks for the help,will look into it didnt think i had to reclaim my baggage tho as the flight company said they will automatically be changed over to the next flight so glad i know what will happen now x

Citylghts

If your outbound route is similar, your bags will be checked through and automatically transferred from your domestic flight to the international leg of your trip.

It's a government requirement that you processed at the first point you touch down in the US and that you have your luggage with you.