Food Security in the 21st Century: Envisioning R&D Strategies for Meeting the Demand
Information for Visitors
How to get to the University of Illinois
By Plane
- There is an airport in Urbana-Champaign (code = CMI) but it is a very small airport served only by United Airlines and American Airlines (and their code-share partners).
- You can fly from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to CMI or from Dallas Fort Worth (DFW).
- If you are booking a flight on One World Alliance (American Airlines and code-share partners) or on Star Alliance (United Airlines and code-share partners), then the cost to fly all the way to CMI (via ORD or DFW) may be very low. However, if you are flying on another airline, adding the leg to CMI may be very expensive.
- While there are other airports within an hours drive (Bloomington, Decatur), you would need to rent a car to drive to Champaign. There are not shuttle busses to those airports. Similarly, if you are willing to rent a car you may consider flying to Indianapolis (2 hours drive), but there are not shuttle busses.
If you fly to Chicago (either ORD or MWD), you can rent a car to drive to Champaign (about 2.5 to 3 hours drive) or take a shuttle bus. For buses, we recommend Peoria Charter or Suburban Express. There are several stops in Champaign, and if you are staying at the Illini Union or the Towne Suites it is best to get off at Altgeld Hall. If you are staying at the I-Hotel, then coordinate pick up with that hotel (Altgeld may also be the best option).
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Midway Airport (MDW)
- University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI)
- Peoria Charter (3-4 hours)
By Car (from ORD)
How to get around
- The campus is very walkable, you can also take the MTD bus all over campus and the twin cities for $1/ride. Use Google Maps and click the public transportation option to figure out the manifold route options.
- We have Uber and Lyft services.
Where to stay
- Illini Union (this is on campus)
- I-Hotel: (very close to campus). The hotel will arrange for shuttles to/from Willard, Illinois Terminal, and UIUC Campus Buildings for any registered guests. All are by appointment, and can be set up by reaching our @Concierge staff by email or at 217-819-5000
- Hyatt Place (this is downtown near many restaurants and night life options)
- TownePlace Suites Champaign Urbana/Campustown on campus on Green Street
- Hampton Inn: Note that the Hampton does not offer any shuttles to/from the airport nor to campus. You will need to take the bus from the airport ($1 per ride) or Uber/Lyft to get to campus.
- There are also many airbnb hosts in Champaign and Urbana. Find rooms on www.airbnb.com. Rates range from $40 to $150 per night.
What to expect
- Weather: Average temps (high/low): 20°C/7°C.
- Staying Safe: Campus, downtown Champaign and Urbana are safe areas, low crime and well-lit, but it is always advised to be smart and travel with another person after dark.
