Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Grand Rapids. Right-side seats capture the most compelling scenery: Lake Michigan during departure and the transition from urban Chicago to Michigan's lake-dotted landscape during the flight. The 140-mile route generally proceeds northeast, making right-side views more consistently interesting.

During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago shoreline as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Midway. You'll see the lake's western edge and the city grid spreading inland. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Midway's surrounding residential neighborhoods, the lakefront parks and beaches.

When landing at Gerald R Ford International (GRR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Grand Rapids area and surrounding West Michigan landscape during approach. You'll see the city, the Grand River valley, and the relatively flat terrain with scattered lakes and forests typical of this region. Notable sights include: Grand River valley, Grand Rapids city center, Reeds Lake, surrounding pine and hardwood forests.

The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Gerald R Ford International (GRR) takes Approximately 45-55 minutes.

After leaving Lake Michigan, the flight passes over northwestern Indiana and southwestern Michigan. Notable features include the Indiana Dunes region (visible as sandy terrain along Lake Michigan's eastern shore if still in view), scattered lakes throughout Michigan's Lower Peninsula, and the transition from flat agricultural land to more forested terrain with lakes becoming increasingly visible as you approach Grand Rapids.