Hey guys! Planning a trip from the Windy City to Space City? You're in the right spot. This guide will cover everything you need to know about flying from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Houston, Texas, whether you're heading to George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) or William P. Hobby (HOU). Let's dive in and make your travel planning a breeze!

Overview of Flights from Chicago to Houston

Flights from Chicago to Houston are super common, connecting the Midwest to the South. You'll find tons of options daily, making it easy to pick a time that works for you. Most flights are non-stop, clocking in at around 2.5 to 3 hours. Several major airlines operate this route, including United, American, Southwest, and Spirit. This means you've got a good range of prices and service levels to choose from.

Airlines that Fly this Route

• United Airlines: A major player with numerous daily non-stop flights to its hub at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
• American Airlines: Another biggie, offering both non-stop and connecting flights, often to IAH.
• Southwest Airlines: Known for its flexible policies and often flying into William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
• Spirit Airlines: If you're hunting for the cheapest option, Spirit might catch your eye, though be sure to factor in those extra baggage fees!

Airport Options in Houston

• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): This is Houston's biggest airport, serving international and domestic flights. It's a major hub, so expect plenty of amenities and connections.
• William P. Hobby Airport (HOU): Closer to downtown Houston, Hobby is a favorite for Southwest flyers and offers a more relaxed, smaller-airport vibe.

Finding the Best Flight Deals

Alright, let's talk about saving some cash! Finding the best deals on flights from Chicago to Houston takes a little savvy, but it's totally doable. Here's the lowdown:

Be Flexible with Your Dates

Seriously, this is key. If you can tweak your travel dates by even a day or two, you might stumble upon significantly cheaper flights. Mid-week flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are often less expensive than weekend flights. Also, consider flying during off-peak seasons or holidays when fewer people are traveling.

Use Flight Comparison Websites

There are tons of great websites and apps out there to help you compare flight prices. Some popular ones include:

• Google Flights: Super user-friendly and lets you track prices over time.
• Skyscanner: Great for finding the cheapest flights across a wide range of airlines.
• Kayak: Offers price alerts and explores different travel options.
• Momondo: Known for finding unique deals and comparing prices from smaller travel agencies.

Consider Budget Airlines

If you're willing to forgo some frills, budget airlines like Spirit can offer rock-bottom fares. Just be mindful of extra costs like baggage fees, seat selection, and in-flight snacks. Add it all up to make sure it's actually the cheapest option.

Book in Advance (But Not Too Far in Advance)

Generally, the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is about 2-3 months before your travel date. Booking too early (like six months out) might not get you the best deals, as airlines adjust prices based on demand. Waiting until the last minute is usually a gamble, as prices tend to skyrocket as the departure date approaches.

Sign Up for Email Alerts

Many flight comparison websites and airlines let you sign up for email alerts that notify you of price drops on your desired route. This way, you can pounce when a good deal pops up.

Check for Package Deals

Sometimes, bundling your flight with a hotel or rental car can save you money. Check out websites like Expedia or Priceline to see if any package deals are available for your trip to Houston.

What to Expect at Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Okay, let's talk about the departure airport. O'Hare is a huge airport, so knowing your way around can save you some stress.

Getting to the Airport

You've got a few options for getting to ORD:

• Public Transportation (CTA Blue Line): The cheapest option! The Blue Line train runs 24/7 and connects directly to the airport terminals.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient but can be pricey, especially during rush hour.
• Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle companies offer door-to-door service from various locations in the city.
• Driving and Parking: If you're driving, O'Hare has several parking options, ranging from economy lots to closer-in garages. Be sure to factor in parking costs when budgeting for your trip.

Navigating the Terminals

O'Hare has four terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5). Make sure you know which terminal your flight is departing from before you head to the airport. You can usually find this information on your airline's website or app. Each terminal has its own security checkpoints, restaurants, and shops.

Security Tips

• Arrive early: Especially during peak travel times, security lines at O'Hare can be long. Give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your gate.
• Have your ID and boarding pass ready: This will help speed up the process.
• Know the TSA rules: Make sure you're not carrying any prohibited items in your carry-on bag.
• Consider TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: If you travel frequently, these programs can save you a lot of time in security.

Arriving in Houston: IAH vs. HOU

Now, let's talk about what to expect when you land in Houston. As mentioned earlier, you'll either be arriving at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

IAH is a major international airport, so it's big and busy. It has five terminals (A, B, C, D, and E). Here's what you need to know:

• Getting Around: IAH has an automated people mover system called Skyway that connects all the terminals. There's also a subway that connects the terminals to the parking garages and the airport hotel.
• Transportation Options: You've got plenty of options for getting from IAH to your final destination, including taxis, ride-sharing, airport shuttles, and rental cars. The METRO bus also provides service to downtown Houston.
• Amenities: IAH has a wide range of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, including free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and nursing rooms.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

Hobby is a smaller, more convenient airport located closer to downtown Houston. It has one main terminal. Here's what you need to know:

• Getting Around: Hobby is easy to navigate, as everything is located within one terminal.
• Transportation Options: You'll find taxis, ride-sharing, airport shuttles, and rental cars available at Hobby. The METRO bus also provides service to downtown Houston.
• Amenities: Hobby has a good selection of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, including free Wi-Fi and charging stations.

Things to Do in Houston

So, you've made it to Houston! Now what? Houston's got a ton to offer, from world-class museums to delicious food. Here are a few ideas:

• Space Center Houston: A must-see for space enthusiasts! Explore exhibits, see real spacecraft, and learn about NASA's mission.
• Museum District: Home to a variety of museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children's Museum of Houston.
• Houston Zoo: A great place to see animals from around the world.
• Discovery Green: A beautiful park in the heart of downtown Houston, offering concerts, events, and outdoor activities.
• The Galleria: A huge shopping mall with a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
• Explore Houston's diverse culinary scene: From Tex-Mex to Vietnamese, Houston has something for everyone. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like barbecue and crawfish.

Final Thoughts

Flying from Chicago O'Hare to Houston, Texas, is a pretty straightforward trip. With a little planning, you can find great deals on flights and have a smooth travel experience. Remember to be flexible with your dates, use flight comparison websites, and consider your airport options in Houston. And once you arrive, be sure to explore all that Houston has to offer! Safe travels, y'all!