Bike path bridge over creek at Illinois forest preserve

$49 Cheap Flights to River Forest, IL

Popular airlines to River Forest

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How much is the cheapest flight to River Forest?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $98 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
United
Southwest Airlines

Alternative airports near River Forest

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to River Forest

Flights to River Forest at a glance

Traveling to River Forest is easy—simply choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the option that aligns with your budget and itinerary as you plan to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near River Forest: O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW)
  • Closest airport to River Forest: O'Hare International Airport, ORD (around 7 miles)
  • Flights per week: 9,800+ flights arriving across River Forest airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to River Forest: around 75+ carriers

Popular airports near River Forest

River Forest is a vibrant city ideal for family getaways, urban adventures, and outdoor activities. Travelers flock to this destination for its family-friendly atmosphere, business opportunities, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Accessing River Forest is convenient, with two major airports serving the area.

  • O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Situated in Cook County, Illinois, approximately 7 miles from River Forest, this major hub provides access to over 285 domestic cities and more than 315 international locations. Travelers can enhance their journey by opting for first class, premium economy, or business class seating for a more enjoyable experience, depending on the airline and route. Key airlines operating here include American Airlines, United, and Frontier Airlines.
  • Midway International Airport (MDW): Located in Cook County, Illinois, around 8 miles from River Forest, this airport offers connections to over 130 domestic cities and 30 international destinations. Passengers can select premium economy or first class seating to ensure greater comfort during their travels, based on the airline and specific route. Notable carriers serving this airport include Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to River Forest

  • New York (JFK/LGA) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with one-way tickets available from around $45
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Boston (BOS) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with one-way flight options from around $50
  • Orlando (MCO) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $45
  • Atlanta (ATL) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with one-way tickets available from around $40

Cheapest routes to River Forest

  • Newark (EWR) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with low one-way fares from around $30
  • Dallas (DFW/DAL) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with affordable one-way prices from around $35
  • Atlanta (ATL) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with budget one-way fares from around $40
  • Minneapolis (MSP) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with low one-way fares from around $40
  • Nashville (BNA) to River Forest (ORD/MDW), with low one-way fares from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to River Forest

  • American Airlines: Operating flights to O'Hare International Airport (ORD), American Airlines represents about 31% of arrivals in River Forest. The typical one-way fare is around $390, with premium cabin choices including premium economy, business, and first class based on the route.
  • United: Also flying to O'Hare International Airport (ORD), United accounts for approximately 31% of River Forest arrivals. The average one-way ticket costs about $380, and travelers can enjoy premium service options such as premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Serving both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Southwest Airlines contributes roughly 12% of arrivals to River Forest. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $220, making it an economical choice for travelers.
  • Delta: Operating flights to both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Delta is responsible for around 8% of River Forest arrivals. One-way fares average about $290, with premium options available, including premium economy, business, and first class based on the route.
  • Frontier Airlines: Serving both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Frontier Airlines makes up about 4% of arrivals to River Forest. With an average one-way fare of approximately $160, it is a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Best time to fly to River Forest

The most popular months for travelers to fly to River Forest are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in River Forest can reach up to 47.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 67.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $200), roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, November, and May offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $201 to $214, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.0°F (-3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$275
February26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$217
March37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$242
April47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$232
May58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$214
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$226
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$223
August73.6°F (23.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$215
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$200
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$201
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$212
December32.4°F (0.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$218

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to River Forest

Getting some of the best deals on flights to River Forest is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our River Forest hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your River Forest flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in River Forest

River Forest welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach River Forest efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From O'Hare International Airport, O'Hare Station (a metro station) is conveniently located just 0.1 miles away on foot, while Rosemont Station (a train station) is about 2.2 miles away by car, providing accessible transit options for travelers.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in River Forest, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in River Forest is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in River Forest on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around River Forest

  • Chicago: As a vibrant metropolis, Chicago offers a diverse array of experiences for travelers. River Forest is situated in Chicago, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. Visitors can enjoy shopping, arena entertainment, and theater performances. Notable attractions include the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, perfect for families, and the iconic 875 North Michigan Avenue skyscraper. Stroll along Michigan Avenue for a quintessential city experience, and don't miss the nearby urban parks and sports facilities that enhance Chicago's appeal.
  • Oak Park: Located 2 miles drive away from River Forest, Oak Park is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage. Families will appreciate the educational and recreational opportunities available in this vibrant community. Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District for a glimpse into architectural brilliance, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House for a touch of literary history. With shopping and entertainment venues, Oak Park provides a delightful day trip option.
  • Maywood: Maywood is located 2 miles drive away from River Forest and offers a blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Visitors can engage in various educational pursuits and enjoy recreation parks. The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center serves as a hub for business events, while the nearby Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District adds a cultural touch. Sports facilities and urban parks enhance the city's appeal, making it an enjoyable stop for travelers seeking diverse experiences.

Tips for short-haul flights to River Forest

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothes, and planning your outfits wisely. This strategy also allows you to avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save on costs at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to River Forest

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to River Forest?
September is the cheapest month to travel to River Forest. There's less demand then, so you're likely to get a good deal. Booking your trip outside of public holidays and school breaks can also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to River Forest?
Typically, you'll find that New York, Washington and Dallas have cheap flights to River Forest. However, being flexible is key to getting the lowest fares. Plan your getaway during the off-peak season or midweek to keep costs down.
Which US cities fly direct to River Forest?
There are 150 US cities where you can fly to River Forest directly from. Compare your options by using the "Direct flights only" filter on Expedia and find the best starting point for you. Here are some of the top cities to set off from:

  • New York
  • Washington
  • Dallas
  • Boston
  • Phoenix

How to find a cheap flight to River Forest?
To find cheap flights to River Forest, book ahead of time and travel during the low season. Want an insider tip? Depart on a Thursday and you'll typically save 16% on average compared to those who jet off on a Sunday.* Sign up for price tracking on the Expedia app and we'll notify you as soon as prices drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to River Forest?
Being flexible with your plans can help you to secure last-minute offers on cheap flights to River Forest. To see all the available options, try exploring different ticket types, changing your River Forest vacation dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or using another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to River Forest?
Find the travel dates you want and a price that suits your budget by booking your domestic flight to River Forest up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're headed to River Forest from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to River Forest?
Sundays are typically the best day to book a cheap flight to River Forest, where you can save 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, be ready to pay a higher price as this is often the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to River Forest?
River Forest is connected to 216 airports globally through 44 carriers, with O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) as its chief entry point. Select from these well-known airlines to River Forest when organizing your journey:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Alaska Airlines

Where do you fly into River Forest?
When flying to River Forest, the main airport to land at is O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD). You can also jet into nearby hubs like Midway Intl. Airport (MDW), Lewis University Airport (LOT) or Chicago Executive Airport (PWK). Another possibility to consider when you fly to River Forest is Dupage Airport (DPA).
How far is the airport from central River Forest?
Landing at O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) puts you roughly 7 mi northwest of central River Forest.
Can I save money by booking a River Forest trip package?
Book a River Forest flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can benefit from significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your hotel and flight, and you can even add activities and car rentals to create your own customized River Forest trip. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to River Forest?
You can often cancel or change your flight to River Forest within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive a credit toward a future flight in place of a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for exact details. Use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters when you search to secure cheap flights to River Forest with flexible change policies. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
O'Hare Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
ORD
Destination city name
Chicago
Roundtrip price
$98

Trending flights to River Forest

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $98 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines

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