Chicago to New York flight path: MDW to LGA

Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to New York. While the Chicago departure offers a nice skyline glimpse on the left, the right side's approach into LaGuardia with Manhattan and the East River visible gives it the edge for the most memorable and recognizable scenery of the flight.

During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing MDW to the east, downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan's shoreline sit off to the north, so the left side gets a good look at the skyline and lakefront right after rotation before the aircraft settles onto its eastbound track. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower area), Lake Michigan shoreline, Midway's surrounding grid of southside neighborhoods.

When landing at La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the approach into LGA, the final turn typically swings the aircraft past the East River with Manhattan's skyline visible off the right side, giving a strong, recognizable view just before touchdown. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, East River, Rikers Island, Queens waterfront near LaGuardia.

The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to La Guardia (LGA) takes 2h 10m.

Southern Great Lakes region including Lake Erie's shoreline near Cleveland and Erie, followed by the rolling Allegheny Plateau of Pennsylvania and the Southern Tier of New York before descending toward the New York City area