The Group Travel Guide to Airports in & Around Champaign, Illinois

Booking charter buses for airport transportation in and around Champaign is simple with Charter Bus Rental Champaign. We make it easy for groups of all sizes to arrange shuttles or full-size bus rentals to and from Willard Airport (CMI) or any airport across Illinois! Whether you’re a University of Illinois student group arranging a spring break flight, a corporate travel planner scheduling off-site meetings, or a family needing a ride to O’Hare—we’ve got the right bus for the job. Call 217-888-3380 now for an instant quote.

Quick Answer:

Use Willard Airport (CMI) for flights to Chicago, Dallas, and Charlotte with American Airlines. Book a private airport shuttle for students, business travelers, and families flying out of Champaign. For more options, consider Peoria International (PIA), Bloomington-Normal (BMI), Springfield (SPI), or Chicago O’Hare (ORD). Charter Bus Rental Champaign offers 24/7 service and custom packages statewide. Reserve minibuses or full-size coaches for easy airport transfers—call 217-888-3380 for pricing!

Willard Airport (CMI)

Address: 11 Airport Rd, Savoy, IL 61874
Distance from Downtown Champaign: 6 miles / ~15 minutes via US-45 S

University of Illinois Willard Airport is the main commercial airport serving Champaign-Urbana and east-central Illinois. It’s small, convenient, and only a quick drive from campus or downtown. American Airlines operates daily flights between Willard and three major U.S. hubs: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), and Charlotte Douglas (CLT). If you’re traveling to or from other destinations, you’ll need to connect through one of these airports or drive to a larger hub. Willard is an excellent choice for small groups, university sports teams, academic conferences, or business travelers who value short security lines and minimal hassle.

Where to load/unload your charter bus

Oversize vehicles can drop off and pick up passengers curbside directly outside the terminal’s main entrance. There’s plenty of space for a charter bus or minibus to pull in, unload luggage, and get your group inside quickly. If your shuttle needs to wait, use the designated cell phone lot on Airport Road or the main parking lot adjacent to the terminal. The parking area is large enough for most vehicles, but check with airport staff if you have a full-size motorcoach. Willard is rarely crowded, so you won’t deal with the congestion found at bigger airports.

What to eat and drink

Inside the terminal, grab coffee, pastries, sandwiches, or snacks at the Flying Machine Avionics Café near the main entrance. Vending machines offer drinks and packaged snacks past security. For more variety, stop for a sit-down meal before arriving at the airport—popular spots like Black Dog Smoke & Ale House, Seven Saints, and Hamilton Walker’s are all within a 15-minute drive in downtown Champaign. After clearing security, food options are limited, so plan accordingly if you have a long wait before boarding.

What to do

Willard has basic amenities: free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, a small gift shop, and a quiet, low-stress environment. If you arrive early and want to explore, your charter bus can take you to attractions like the Krannert Art Museum or the Spurlock Museum on the University of Illinois campus, both less than 20 minutes away. For outdoor relaxation, visit Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, which offers walking trails and sculpture gardens. Groups have time to spare after landing? Head to downtown Champaign for local shops, cafes, and bars before continuing your journey.

Peoria International Airport (PIA)

Address: 6100 W Everett McKinley Dirksen Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61607
Distance from Champaign: 95 miles / ~1 hour 40 minutes via I-74 W

Peoria International Airport is a solid alternative to Willard if you need more flight options. Located just under two hours northwest of Champaign, PIA offers non-stop service to cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Phoenix on carriers including American, United, and Allegiant. This makes it a good fit for vacation groups, business travelers, or anyone seeking direct flights beyond Chicago. The terminal is modern, easy to navigate, and sized for efficient group movement.

Where to load/unload your charter bus

Buses and shuttles should use the commercial vehicle lane in front of the main terminal building for passenger drop-off and pick-up. There’s ample curb space for multiple coaches, especially during peak departure times. If your vehicle needs to wait, park in the oversized vehicle area in the main parking lot, which also accommodates RVs and tour buses. The lot is close enough for passengers to walk to the terminal if needed.

What to eat and drink

PIA’s terminal has a few dining options pre- and post-security, including a bar and grill, coffee shop, and vending machines with snacks and beverages. For larger groups, consider stopping for a meal in Peoria proper before heading to the airport. Restaurants like One World Café, Jim’s Steakhouse, and Rhythm Kitchen Music Café are popular for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Your charter bus can easily accommodate a detour to suit your group’s appetite.

What to do

If you have time to kill before your flight, visit the Greater Peoria Honor Flight Veterans Memorial or take a group photo by the aviation-themed art installations throughout the terminal. The Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar Visitors Center are about 20 minutes away if you want cultural activities before departing. Your bus can store luggage safely while your group enjoys a quick field trip.

Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI)

Address: 3201 CIRA Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704
Distance from Champaign: 50 miles / ~1 hour via I-74 W & I-55 N

Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington-Normal is another nearby choice with a wider selection of flights compared to Willard. BMI offers daily nonstops to Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Denver, Orlando, and seasonal destinations via American, Delta, and Allegiant. It’s ideal for groups that value a small-airport experience but need connections beyond what CMI provides. The terminal is compact, secure, and designed for fast check-in and boarding—great for school trips, athletic teams, or business shuttles.

Where to load/unload your charter bus

Charter buses and large vehicles can pull up to the main terminal’s commercial lane for loading and unloading. There’s plenty of room for multiple group vehicles, and airport staff are accustomed to handling tour buses and shuttles. Long-term oversized vehicle parking is available in Lot A, which is clearly marked and within walking distance of the terminal. Always confirm with airport security where your bus should stage if you’ll be idling for an extended period.

What to eat and drink

BMI’s terminal features a café and bar offering sandwiches, salads, coffee, beer, and wine both pre- and post-security. Vending machines provide additional snacks and drinks. For better dining options, stop in Bloomington-Normal before your flight. Local favorites like DESTIHL Restaurant & Brew Works, Epiphany Farms, and Medici in Normal are all within a 15-minute drive and welcome groups. Your charter bus can manage a pickup schedule that allows everyone to eat comfortably before heading to the airport.

What to do

Central Illinois Regional Airport has clean, modern facilities with free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and comfortable seating. If your group wants to explore while waiting for a flight, the Children’s Discovery Museum and Miller Park Zoo are both about 10 miles from the airport. Arrange for your bus to drop off and pick up as needed—you’ll have peace of mind knowing your luggage stays secure onboard while you enjoy the sights.

Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI)

Address: 1200 Capital Airport Dr, Springfield, IL 62707
Distance from Champaign: 90 miles / ~1 hour 30 minutes via I-72 W

Located in the state capital, Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport serves Springfield and central Illinois with direct flights to Chicago, Dallas, and Punta Gorda (seasonal) on American and Allegiant. While smaller than Peoria or Bloomington airports, SPI is known for its ease of access, quick security lines, and friendly staff. It’s a smart choice for government groups, historical tours, or anyone based in west-central Illinois who wants to avoid the crowds and traffic of Chicago’s larger airports.

Where to load/unload your charter bus

Large vehicles should use the commercial curb in front of the main terminal for drop-off and pick-up. The terminal layout supports easy access for buses and group shuttles, with clear signage directing oversize vehicles. Extended parking for buses is available in the long-term lots; contact airport administration ahead of time if you’ll need special accommodations for a full-size coach or trailer.

What to eat and drink

On-site dining includes a café and bar with sandwiches, breakfast items, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Vending machines offer additional snacks and cold drinks. For a better selection, dine in Springfield before arriving. Popular group-friendly spots include Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery, D’Arcy’s Pint (famous for horseshoe sandwiches), and Maldaner’s. Your charter bus can coordinate meal stops around your flight schedule for maximum flexibility.

What to do

While waiting at the airport, your group can browse exhibits about Abraham Lincoln’s connection to Springfield in the terminal or relax in the comfortable seating areas with free Wi-Fi. If you have time before your flight, visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum or the Illinois State Capitol—both historic sites are less than 15 minutes from the airport and easy to reach with private transportation.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Address: 10000 W O’Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666
Distance from Champaign: 150 miles / ~2 hours 30 minutes via I-57 N & I-294 W

For international flights or the widest selection of domestic destinations, Chicago O’Hare is the top choice for Champaign-area groups. As one of the busiest airports in the U.S., ORD offers nonstop service to hundreds of cities worldwide on every major airline. While the drive from Champaign is longer, a charter bus ensures your group arrives together, on time, and without the stress of coordinating multiple cars or dealing with city traffic and expensive parking. O’Hare is ideal for study abroad programs, international conferences, and large-scale events that require global connectivity.

Where to load/unload your charter bus

O’Hare has designated bus lanes and staging areas for charter buses at each terminal. Commercial vehicles must follow posted signs and use the appropriate zones for group drop-off and pick-up. For Terminal 5 (international arrivals and departures), use the upper-level Departures roadway. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 (domestic) have similar setups on both Arrivals and Departures levels. If your bus needs to wait, use the Bus/Shuttle Center located near Lot B, which provides restrooms and information services for drivers and passengers.

What to eat and drink

O’Hare has a huge range of dining options, from quick-service chains to sit-down restaurants and local Chicago favorites. Popular spots include Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless, Garrett Popcorn Shops, and Publican Tavern. With dozens of choices spread across four terminals, your group can find something for every taste and dietary need. If you prefer to eat before arriving at the airport, stop at restaurants along I-294 or in Rosemont, where many eateries cater to groups and offer shuttle service to the terminals.

What to do

With art installations, shopping, lounges, and even an aeroponic garden, there’s plenty to keep your group occupied at O’Hare. Explore the Terminal 1 Concourse B tunnel’s neon light display, browse duty-free shops in Terminal 5, or relax in one of many airline lounges if you have access. Free Wi-Fi and ample seating make it easy to work or unwind while waiting for your flight. If you arrive early, your charter bus can take you to the Fashion Outlets of Chicago in nearby Rosemont for last-minute shopping or to local attractions like the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Why book a charter bus for airport transportation?

Coordinating airport transportation for a group is stressful—especially if you rely on public transit, rideshares, or everyone driving themselves. Renting a charter bus or minibus solves all those problems by providing a dedicated vehicle and driver for your itinerary. Here’s why it works:

With a private bus, your entire group travels together, arrives on time, and avoids the hassle of splitting into multiple cars or waiting for taxis. You can set a custom pickup schedule that fits your flight times, whether it’s an early morning departure or a late-night arrival. Enjoy door-to-door service from your hotel, campus, office, or any location in Champaign to the airport terminal. No need to worry about parking fees, shuttle transfers, or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Charter buses and minibuses have plenty of room for luggage, carry-ons, equipment, and personal items. Full-size coaches feature undercarriage storage bays for large suitcases, golf clubs, or musical instruments, while overhead racks keep smaller bags within easy reach. Everyone can relax in reclining seats, use the onboard restroom (on 56-passenger models), and stay connected with Wi-Fi and power outlets if requested.

Airport travel often means early mornings, late nights, or tight connections. With a charter bus, you don’t have to worry about finding a ride, catching a train, or calling multiple cabs. Your driver will track your flight status and adjust pickup times if needed, ensuring you’re never left stranded. For returning groups, a private shuttle meets you at baggage claim and delivers everyone home or to their hotel safely, even after a long overnight flight.

Booking a charter bus simplifies budgeting for group travel. Instead of reimbursing gas receipts, tolls, parking, or individual taxi fares, you pay a single, all-inclusive rate. Request a free quote online or call 217-888-3380 anytime—our team will find the best vehicle and price for your headcount and itinerary. Whether you need a minibus for a small team or a fleet of coaches for a large event, we’ll customize a package that fits your transportation budget.

Reserve Your Champaign Airport Shuttle Today

Ready to book your group’s airport transportation in Champaign or anywhere in Illinois? Charter Bus Rental Champaign is here to help. Our reservation specialists are available 24/7 to answer questions, recommend the right bus, and provide instant pricing. With over 10 years of experience and a fleet of 100 vehicles, we’re the state’s go-to provider for airport shuttles, event transportation, and custom group travel solutions. Call 217-888-3380 now or fill out our online form to get started—we’ll make sure your next trip to the airport is the easiest part of your journey!