Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal +1-855-742-0149
Navigating airports can be a challenge, but at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), flying with Southwest Airlines is a refreshingly simple experience. As the primary airline at Midway, Southwest operates exclusively from Concourse B, forming the heart of MDW’s Main Terminal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or taking your first flight, the Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal offers a smooth journey from check-in to departure.
Southwest Airlines at MDW: An Overview
Southwest Airlines has a deep-rooted presence at Chicago Midway. In fact, MDW serves as one of Southwest’s busiest and most important hubs in the U.S. The airline provides non-stop service to more than 70 cities from MDW, including destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean. All of this is managed efficiently from the airport’s well-organized Concourse B.
Terminal Entry and Check-In
As you enter Chicago Midway’s Main Terminal, you’ll be greeted by Southwest’s extensive check-in counters. These are located near the front entrance and are clearly marked. Whether you’re checking bags, printing boarding passes, or seeking assistance, you’ll find well-trained staff and plenty of self-service kiosks to help you.
Concourse B: Southwest’s Home Base
Southwest Airlines uses Concourse B for all departures and arrivals at Midway. While Concourse A and Concourse C also exist within the airport, Concourse B remains the busiest and most essential concourse for Southwest. It features gates B1 through B26 and handles a high volume of flights efficiently.
Dining and Shopping Options
The Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal includes a wide range of food and beverage outlets throughout Concourse B, accommodating every appetite.
Some traveler favorites include:
Reilly’s Daughter – A cozy Irish pub with burgers, beer, and hearty fare
Tuscany Café – Offering Italian paninis, espresso, and healthy bites
Big City Chicken – Known for crispy chicken sandwiches and fast service
Dunkin’ – Perfect for a quick coffee and breakfast item
Garrett Popcorn Shops – A Chicago must-have for snacks on the go
Ben & Jerry’s – Ideal for travelers craving a sweet treat
Retail options are equally diverse, with stores such as Hudson News, Tech on the Go, iStore, and MAC Cosmetics available throughout the concourse. Whether you need a phone charger, last-minute souvenir, or reading material for your flight, you’ll find it here.
Amenities and Services
Southwest and MDW prioritize convenience. Travelers at the Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal benefit from a variety of amenities, including:
Free Wi-Fi throughout Concourse B
Plenty of charging stations for phones and laptops
Family restrooms and changing tables for traveling parents
Children’s play areas for keeping kids occupied before flights
Pet relief areas, both pre-security and post-security
ATMs and currency exchange kiosks for international travelers
Additionally, the Lost & Found office is located near baggage claim, and customer service desks are staffed by both airport and Southwest personnel to assist with flight changes, rebooking, or travel questions.
Arrivals, Baggage Claim, and Ground Transport
When arriving at MDW, passengers on Southwest flights are directed to the lower level for baggage claim, which is fast and organized. Bag carousels are well-labeled, and baggage handlers are usually efficient, making it quick to retrieve your luggage.
For ground transportation, the Southwest terminal area gives passengers access to:
CTA Orange Line trains that connect MDW to downtown Chicago in about 25 minutes
Rideshare zones for Uber and Lyft just outside the terminal doors
Taxi services available curbside 24/7
Pace and CTA buses with local and regional routes
Rental car shuttle buses that take you to the consolidated rental center
All these options are located close to the terminal, making connections quick and easy.
Helpful Tips for Traveling via Southwest at MDW
To make your travel experience as smooth as possible, consider the following:
Arrive 2 hours early, especially during holidays or morning rush periods.
Check-in online or use the Southwest app to skip long lines.
Pack light if using Southwest’s generous two-free-checked-bags policy.
Bring snacks for the flight since Southwest provides only limited onboard refreshments.
Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR (if enrolled) for faster security access.
Explore Concourse B, especially if you have time to spare—there’s plenty to enjoy.
Conclusion
The Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal, centered around Concourse B, delivers a seamless travel experience marked by convenience, comfort, and friendly service. From efficient check-in to easy-to-navigate gates and diverse dining options, everything is designed with the traveler in mind.
Whether you’re flying for business, heading to a beach destination, or connecting through Chicago, Southwest’s operations at MDW ensure your journey starts off on the right foot. With excellent amenities, accessibility features, and direct connections to the city, the terminal offers everything needed for a stress-free airport experience.