Other Options for This Route
Other Destinations
Chicago (ORD) to Minneapolis (MSP) in December from $39
From $39
Chicago (ORD) to Nashville (BNA) in December from $53
From $53
Chicago (ORD) to Houston (IAH) in December from $54
From $54
Chicago (ORD) to Washington, D.C. (BWI) in December from $62
From $62
Chicago (ORD) to New York (Any) in December from $80
From $80
Chicago (ORD) to Tampa (Any) in December from $82
From $82
Flights from Other Cities
Chicago (Any) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $65
From $65
Cleveland (CLE) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $98
From $98
Chicago (MDW) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $104
From $104
Hayden (HDN) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $125
From $125
Rochester (ROC) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $128
From $128
Charlotte (CLT) to Tampa (TPA) in December from $129
From $129
✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (ORD) → Tampa (TPA)
Complete travel information for your December journey
Planning a December departure from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA)? Expect colder temperatures, possible snow operations, and holiday crowds. Primary keywords: flights ORD to TPA December, cheap flights Chicago to Tampa. Secondary and LSI keywords: O'Hare parking December, CTA Blue Line winter schedule, ORD de-icing delays. Book early for lower fares and reserve parking or ground transportation in advance. For the best experience, sign up for airline alerts, use TSA PreCheck to speed security, and consider morning departures to minimize weather disruption. Nearby major destinations served by ORD include Milwaukee, Indianapolis, and Madison — useful if you’re arranging multi-city travel.
Departing from Chicago (ORD) FAQs
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is accessible by the CTA Blue Line subway from downtown Chicago, Metra trains to nearby stations with shuttle connections, rideshare, and airport shuttles. In December expect holiday crowds and occasional winter delays, so allow at least 2–3 hours before domestic departures and check CTA schedules for adjusted holiday service. Book early for parking or pre-arranged airport transfers to secure the best rates.
Security wait times at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) can be longer during the December holiday period, often ranging from 15 minutes up to 60+ minutes during peak morning and evening windows. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or arrive earlier than usual (2.5–3 hours for domestic flights) to reduce stress, and check airport apps or the TSA website for live line updates. Consider expedited lanes or lounge access if you have a tight connection.
December brings winter weather to Chicago, so Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) can experience snow, ice, and de-icing delays that occasionally affect ORD-to-TPA flights. Airlines typically preemptively cancel or delay flights during heavy snow; monitor airline alerts and sign up for text notifications. If traveling in December, build in buffer time and consider travel insurance for weather disruptions.
Ground transportation at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) includes the CTA Blue Line, airport shuttle services, rental cars, taxis, and rideshares like Uber and Lyft that operate at designated curbside pickup points. In December, plan for winter driving and allow extra time for snow-clearing operations; consider pre-booking a shuttle or car service for reliable pickup. Compare rates and check for holiday operating hours on the airport website.
Parking at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December can be busy due to holiday travel; reserve long-term or economy parking in advance for lower rates and guaranteed spots. Use off-airport park-and-ride lots with shuttle service for cost savings, and allow extra time for shuttle transfers if snow impacts road conditions. Check daily rates and real-time lot availability on the airport's parking portal before you go.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) serves not only Chicago but also nearby major cities and destinations including Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Madison, and Rockford for connecting ground or air travel. Many travelers use ORD to reach regional destinations in the Midwest as well as international hubs, making it a convenient departure point in December for both domestic and international itineraries. If you're flying ORD to Tampa International Airport (TPA), consider these nearby connections when booking.
Arriving at Tampa International Airport (TPA) in December offers milder weather and easy access to the Gulf Coast. Primary keywords: flights ORD to TPA December, Tampa arrival tips. Secondary keywords: TPA ground transportation December, Tampa holiday events. December travelers should account for holiday traffic to Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, and pre-book shuttles or rental cars to avoid peak-day shortages. Use TPA's interactive maps and real-time flight trackers, and consider off-peak arrival times to avoid congestion. CTA: Book your ORD to TPA December flight now and reserve ground transport to Clearwater or St. Petersburg today.
Arriving at Tampa (TPA) FAQs
Tampa International Airport (TPA) in December typically offers mild, pleasant weather compared with Chicago, though brief cold fronts and occasional rain are possible. You’ll find efficient baggage claim, rideshare pick-up zones, and car rental facilities; holiday crowds can affect ground transport times, so allow additional time for hotel transfers. Use TPA's real-time arrival boards and the airport app for terminal and baggage updates.
Yes, multiple carriers operate direct flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Tampa International Airport (TPA) in December, including major airlines like United, American, and Southwest. Direct flight frequency increases during peak holiday dates, so book early to lock in seats and lower fares. If direct flights are sold out, connecting options via hubs such as Charlotte or Atlanta are common alternatives.
From Tampa International Airport (TPA) you can reach Clearwater Beach by rental car (approx. 25–40 minutes), rideshare/taxi, or scheduled shuttles and private transfers. December weather is typically mild, so road conditions are reliable; however, weekend traffic and event-related congestion can add time. For the best rates, reserve a rental car or shared shuttle in advance and look for off-airport pick-up promos.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) offers a variety of passenger amenities year-round, including TSA PreCheck enrollment info, airline club lounges, dining options, and family facilities; these remain fully operational in December. Seasonal menus and pop-up holiday stores often appear in terminals, and some lounges may require advance passes during peak holiday days. Check airline lounge access rules and hours when planning December travel.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) serves Tampa Bay and nearby destinations including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, and Orlando for onward travel and leisure connections. Many travelers also use TPA as a gateway to Naples, Fort Myers, and the Gulf Coast beaches in December. Consider regional car rentals or intercity shuttles if your itinerary includes these popular Florida spots.
Yes, Tampa International Airport (TPA) often features seasonal decorations, holiday-themed live music, and extended retail hours in December to accommodate increased passenger volumes. Expect special shuttle schedules and crowds around peak travel dates like pre-Christmas departures and New Year's. Check TPA's official site for event timing and transportation advisories before you travel.
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December Events & Festivals — Chicago and Tampa During ORD–TPA Travel
December brings major holiday events that impact ORD–TPA travel demand. In Chicago, expect the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Christkindlmarket, and Lincoln Park ZooLights — these boost departures from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) before and after key weekend dates. In Tampa, holiday highlights include Busch Gardens Christmas Town, Holiday Lights on the Riverwalk, and seasonal markets in St. Petersburg and Clearwater, which attract visitors arriving at Tampa International Airport (TPA). Plan transfers and accommodations early, as event weekends often push up hotel rates and flight demand. CTA: Check event dates and adjust your ORD to TPA December travel dates to avoid peak crowds.
Best Time to Fly ORD to TPA in December — Cheapest & Most Reliable Options
For December travel, the best time to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) is mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) and in morning time slots to avoid winter-weather propagation delays. Avoid the heavy travel windows three days before Christmas and New Year's Eve; consider flying a day earlier or later for cheaper fares and less crowded airports. If you must travel on peak dates, choose nonstop flights and a morning departure to reduce the risk of missed connections. CTA: Search flexible dates now to find the best ORD to TPA December options.
Direct vs Connecting Flights — ORD to TPA in December: Pros & Cons
Direct nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) are faster (about 2 hrs 45 min) and reduce the risk of missed connections during December's unpredictable winter weather. Connecting flights can be cheaper but increase travel time and exposure to delays at intermediate hubs such as Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT). If traveling during holiday peaks, prioritize nonstop flights to minimize complications; for lower budgets, compare one-stop itineraries with long connection buffers. CTA: Compare nonstop and connecting flight prices for ORD to TPA this December and book the best fit for your travel priorities.
Airline Comparison for ORD to TPA in December — United, American, Southwest, Delta, Spirit
United Airlines: Frequent nonstop options from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) with good schedule reliability; standard checked bag fees apply. American Airlines: Competitive schedules and connections via Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) or Charlotte (CLT); loyalty advantages for AAdvantage members. Southwest: Often offers two free checked bags and flexible change policies, a good choice for families traveling to Tampa in December. Delta: Reliable service with connections through Atlanta; slightly higher fares but strong on-time performance. Spirit: Ultra-low fares but strict baggage fees and tighter seat pitch — best for budget travelers who pack light. CTA: Compare December fares across these carriers and factor baggage fees when booking ORD to TPA flights.
Seasonal Travel Tips for ORD to TPA in December — Packing, Weather, and Airport Advice
Packing tip: Dress in layers for December travel from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) — heavy coat for Chicago, lightweight layers for Tampa. Allow extra time at ORD for snow or de-icing delays and at TPA for holiday ground-transport congestion. Keep medications and essentials in carry-on luggage in case of checked-bag delays around busy December travel days. Use airline apps for flight status and check both ORD and TPA terminal advisories before leaving home. CTA: Prepare now — download airline apps, set flight alerts, and pack smart for your ORD to TPA December trip.
Flight Time & Schedules — Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Tampa (TPA) in December
Average nonstop flight time from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on winds and routing. In December, expect multiple daily nonstop departures during morning, midday, and evening peaks; airlines often add extra midday and late-afternoon flights around holiday travel peaks. Typical connecting options route through Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), or Miami (MIA) if nonstop seats are unavailable. CTA: Check morning flights for the most reliable winter operations and book your ORD to TPA December schedule now.
Cheap Flights from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Tampa (TPA) in December — Deals & Tips
Primary keywords: cheap flights ORD to TPA December, cheap Chicago to Tampa. To find the lowest fares in December, search 6–8 weeks ahead for one-way or round-trip options and use flexible date searches (Tuesdays–Thursdays often cheaper). Set fare alerts and compare budget carriers like Spirit and major carriers' sale periods. Consider flying outside peak dates (avoid the three days before Christmas and New Year's Eve) and check nearby departure airports only if significant savings offset extra transfer time. CTA: Start a price alert for ORD to TPA December and compare fares now.