Video gaming lounge opens at Chicago’s Midway Airport

CHICAGO - Travelers flying through Midway International Airport now have a new way to pass the time before boarding.

The Chicago Department of Aviation and Midway Partnership celebrated the opening of Gameway on Thursday, a video gaming lounge located near Gate A5 inside the airport, according to a statement.

(Chicago Department of Transportation)

What we know:

The lounge features high-end gaming stations with comfortable seating, premium gaming headphones and high-speed internet. Guests can reserve a sanitized station equipped with a gaming PC, Xbox or PlayStation console.

Players can choose from popular titles including Call of Duty, Fortnite, Madden, NBA 2K, Minecraft and ARC Raiders, among others. The lounge also offers a variety of drinks, including soft drinks, cold refreshments, coffee-based beverages and beer.

Gameway is open daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Travelers can book up to 30 minutes of game time for $17.99, up to 60 minutes for $27.99 or choose unlimited time for $49.99.

(Chicago Department of Transportation)

What they're saying:

City officials say the gaming lounge is part of an effort to modernize the airport experience.

"I’m proud to welcome Gameway to Midway as a new place for travelers to relax, unwind and get in some game time while waiting for their flights," CDA Commissioner Michael McMurray said in a statement. "We’re always looking for new and innovative amenities to enhance the travel experience for Chicagoans and visitors from all over the world."

In a statement, Gameway co-founders Jordan and Emma Walbridge said they’re excited to give Midway travelers a place to have fun, recharge and connect before boarding.

(Chicago Department of Transportation)

"Gameway was created to do one thing: make airports entertaining," the statement said. "We are excited to give MDW travelers a place to have fun, recharge, and connect before they board their flight. Midway’s energy is a perfect match for what we do, and we can’t wait to welcome Chicago’s travelers."

Midway Partnership General Manager Shawnta Young called the lounge a strong addition to the airport’s lineup of more than 70 brands and experiences.