DPA (Chicago Executive Airport) is a smaller regional airport serving the Chicago metropolitan area. While it’s not a major international hub, layovers here offer a chance to explore the West Chicago area or rest before your next flight. Whether you have a short connection or an extended layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Language: English is widely spoken in the Chicago area.
- Currency: US Dollars (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters.
- Time Zone: Central Time (CT)
- Airport Website: Visit the airport’s official website for current transit options and ground transportation details.
Getting to West Chicago
DPA is located in West Chicago, approximately 25 miles west of downtown Chicago. Ground transportation options include:
- Rental Car: Best for flexibility if you have a longer layover
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are available from the airport
- Taxi: Traditional taxi service available at ground transportation level
- Public Transit: Check with the airport for current Metra or bus connections
Pro Tip: Always factor in security screening time when calculating if you can leave the airport. For international connections, budget at least 1 hour for plus 2-3 hours to return to the airport before departure.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 hours)
With a short connection, your best option is to stay near the airport or rest inside the terminal:
- Rest at the Airport: Find a quiet seating area or check SleepingInAirports.net for the best spots to rest at DPA.
- Refresh: Use airport facilities to freshen up before your next flight.
- Eat: Grab food at airport dining options, though prices are 2-3x higher than city restaurants.
- Work or Relax: Download offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited.
Medium Layover (4-8 hours)
With a medium-length layover, you have options to explore nearby West Chicago:
- West Chicago Area: Browse local shops, restaurants, and attractions within a short drive of the airport.
- Nearby Dining: Eat in the city rather than the airport – you’ll save significantly on food costs.
- Quick Activity: Visit a local attraction or shopping area if time permits.
Long Layover (8+ hours)
With an extended layover, consider:
- Explore Chicago: Take a rideshare or rental car to explore downtown Chicago, Navy Pier, or the Museum of Science and Industry.
- Hotel Rest: Book a hotel room for a few hours to sleep and refresh.
- Luggage Storage: Use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers.
Layover Tips by Traveler Type
Family Travel Tips
- Pack Smart: Keep a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries – accessible without unpacking everything.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security. Staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag.
- Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable.
- Baby Care: Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas.
- Luggage Storage: Use Bounce or Stasher for luggage storage near the airport – much cheaper than airport lockers.
Solo Travel Tips
- Offline Maps: Download Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – essential for navigating without data.
- Luggage Storage: Bounce and Stasher partner with local businesses near airports for storage at $5-8 per bag per day.
- Money: Use a Wise or Revolut card for the best exchange rates – zero markup in most countries.
- Data: Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi.
- Share Your Location: Tell a trusted contact where you’re going when exploring a new city solo.
Group Travel Tips
- Designate a Leader: Assign one person to manage timing, headcount, and communication.
- Use Group Chat: Coordinate via WhatsApp or group chat – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message.
- Multi-Bag Discounts: Book all group luggage together with Bounce or Stasher for better rates.
- Track Expenses: Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what for shared transport and food.
- Food Courts: Choose food courts over sit-down restaurants – everyone can pick what they want.
Quick Layover Checklist
- ☐ Download offline maps before landing
- ☐ Locate ATMs for cash – avoid airport currency exchanges
- ☐ Book luggage storage if needed (Bounce, Stasher, LuggageHero)
- ☐ Plan return to airport with 2.5-3 hours buffer for international flights
- ☐ Download offline entertainment for the airport
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave DPA airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave DPA during a layover if you have sufficient time. For domestic connections, budget at least 60 minutes to return to the airport before departure. For international connections, allow 2.5-3 hours to account for and security. Always factor in travel time to and from the airport when deciding whether to leave.
What is there to do at DPA during a layover?
At DPA, you can rest in the terminal, use airport facilities to freshen up, or grab food and drinks. For longer layovers, you can explore the West Chicago area or take a rideshare to nearby attractions. With 8+ hours, you could visit downtown Chicago or other regional attractions.
How long of a layover do I need at DPA?
For domestic connections, 60 minutes is the minimum. For international connections, allow at least 2-3 hours. If you want to leave the airport and explore, budget 4-6 hours minimum. For a comfortable experience with time to rest or explore, aim for 6+ hours.
Are there lounges at DPA?
Lounge availability at DPA may be limited. Check with your airline about lounge access. Alternatively, consider Priority Pass, which gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free. You can also purchase one-time day passes from airlines (typically $39-59).
Is there luggage storage at DPA?
For luggage storage options, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero – they partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10 per bag per day, which is much cheaper than airport lockers. Book online before you arrive.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you’re staying at the airport or exploring West Chicago, a little planning goes a long way. Download offline maps, know your layover length, and decide in advance whether you’ll leave the airport. With the right strategy, even a short layover can be productive and stress-free.
Ready to plan your layover? Use the Yopki layover calculator to find the best activities and strategies for your specific layover duration.