Millions of travelers descending on Chicago area over Labor Day weekend
Expect heavier tollway traffic and crowded airports as travelers make their way to the Chicago area for the holiday weekend.
Chicago’s airports expect to welcome more than 1.71 million travelers over the Labor Day weekend, while the Illinois Tollway anticipates 8.5 million vehicles will travel its tollways over the next few days.
Between Thursday and Tuesday, more than 1.41 million passengers are expected to pass through Chicago O’Hare International Airport, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Nearly 300,000 passengers are expected to make their way through Midway International Airport during that time.
“Chicago has enjoyed a wonderful summer of activities and events happening throughout the city, and we are fortunate for all those who have chosen to spend time here,” Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a news release. “This Labor Day weekend, we again look forward to welcoming all who will be joining us to celebrate the arrival of fall in the greatest city in the world.”
The Chicago Department of Aviation says Sunday will be O’Hare’s busiest day, while Monday is projected to be Midway’s most trafficked. Both airports expect more travelers than in 2025, with passengers up 5.9% at O’Hare and 2.3% at Midway.
On the roads, the Illinois Tollway says the heaviest traffic of the weekend is anticipated Friday, with more than 2 million vehicles expected to use the 294-mile tollway system.
High volumes also are projected for Tuesday, when 1.8 million vehicles are expected to travel on the tollway. On an average day, about 1.7 million vehicles use the Illinois Tollway.
Tollway officials say most temporary maintenance and construction lane closures will be suspended from noon on Friday through 9 a.m. on Tuesday. Some work may continue behind barriers to keep projects on schedule.
Those traveling by road will be paying higher prices at the pump in Illinois than the national average. AAA reports the average gas price in Illinois on Friday is $4.31, compared with $4.15 nationally.
rwest@dailyherald.com