Planning a trip from Wellington, New Zealand, to Chicago, USA? Chicago, a city brimming with architectural marvels, a rich history, and vibrant cultural experiences, is a fantastic destination. It boasts iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower, the stunning Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The city also offers numerous scenic landscapes and unique local experiences, such as boat tours along the Chicago River or exploring the city's diverse neighbourhoods. Whether you're drawn to its cultural heritage, historical significance or natural beauty, Chicago promises an unforgettable adventure.

The average direct flight duration from Wellington to Chicago is approximately 24 hours. However, flight time may vary depending on weather conditions, wind speed, specific flight routes, and aircraft type. Several factors can influence flight duration, such as headwinds or tailwinds which can significantly alter flight times. You should expect a flight of around 24 hours but this is not always the case.

Several major airlines offer this route. Air New Zealand and United Airlines often have direct flights, although these may not be daily. While direct flights exist, they are not as frequent as flights with layovers. Consider exploring alternative flight paths with stopovers in major hubs such as Los Angeles, Honolulu, or even London for potential cost savings. These layovers will increase your overall travel time significantly.

To find the cheapest flights, it's generally recommended to book your tickets during the off-season months (November to April) or even in shoulder seasons for better deals. Booking in advance, ideally 2-3 months before your travel dates, usually yields the best deals; last-minute flight deals are rarer, therefore, you should avoid booking last minute. Airfares are typically higher during peak seasons, such as the summer months (June to August) and over holiday periods, when travel demand is at its highest.

Chicago's peak travel season is from June to August. The weather is warm, sunny and perfect for outdoor activities, so more people tend to travel during this time. This results in higher airfares and hotel prices. Off-peak seasons are usually between November and April. The weather is colder and less sunny, resulting in lower travel demand and better flight deals. Bear in mind that this is just an indication, and prices may fluctuate based on various factors, such as events happening in the city, or holiday periods. For a cost-effective trip, consider flying during the off-season.

Chicago has a humid continental climate, meaning warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures averaging between 20°C and 30°C, perfect for enjoying the city's many outdoor attractions. However, the humidity can be high. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around 1°C and substantial snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures, but are prone to occasional rain showers and variable weather. Spring can be windy and autumn can bring early frost.

Wellington has two main airports currently operating and serving commercial flights. Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving the city.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport, opened in 1935, is a modern airport with one terminal handling both domestic and international flights. It has undergone several renovations in recent years, and is conveniently located close to the city centre. The airport serves numerous domestic and international airlines.

Other airports

There are other smaller airports in the Wellington region; however, for flights to Chicago, Wellington Airport would be your primary departure point.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• United Airlines
• American Airlines

Chicago is served by two major international airports: O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. Both airports handle millions of passengers annually.

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports globally, known for its extensive network of domestic and international flights. Opened in 1943, it features four terminals, numerous shops, restaurants and lounges. Reaching the city centre from O'Hare is easy via public transport options, including the CTA Blue Line train, taxis, ride-sharing services, or rental cars. The airport is located approximately 29 km northwest of downtown Chicago.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

Midway International Airport is another significant airport serving Chicago. This airport is smaller than O'Hare and has one main terminal, serving a large number of domestic and a smaller number of international airlines. Opened in 1927, it also offers various transportation options to reach the city centre, including the CTA Orange Line train, taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. It is located approximately 13 km south of downtown Chicago.

Chicago offers a wealth of attractions for every type of visitor. From its world-class museums to its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene, there is something for everyone.

• Millennium Park: Explore this iconic park, home to the Cloud Gate ('The Bean') sculpture, Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden.
• Navy Pier: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Navy Pier, with its Ferris wheel, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
• Art Institute of Chicago: Discover masterpieces of art from around the world at this renowned museum, known for its impressive collection.