Nonstop Flight from Chicago to Curaçao Opens a New Gateway to Caribbean Adventure

Published on December 8, 2025

In an exhilarating celebration of culture, color, and Caribbean charm, the Curaçao Tourist Board marked a monumental moment for the island’s tourism with the launch of its first-ever nonstop flight from O’Hare International Airport to Curaçao. On the morning of December 6th, American Airlines’ inaugural flight from Chicago to this Caribbean paradise took off, offering travelers a seamless connection to one of the most vibrant and diverse destinations in the region. This new nonstop route represents a significant milestone for Curaçao, further elevating its accessibility and offering Midwestern travelers a quick and easy gateway to its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and renowned hospitality.

A Night of Immersive Caribbean Magic in Chicago

To commemorate the launch of this new flight, Curaçao brought a piece of the island to Chicago during the ‘Takeoff to Curaçao’ event. Held at Moonlight Studios in the city’s dynamic Fulton District, the event turned the cold Chicago winter into a warm Caribbean retreat. Guests were transported into the heart of Curaçao’s iconic landscape with a multisensory experience that captured the essence of the island’s tropical charm. Upon entering the venue, attendees were greeted by a stunning 20-foot recreation of Curaçao’s colorful Handelskade, the island’s iconic waterfront street lined with vibrant Dutch-style buildings, a view familiar to any postcard from the island.

As guests made their way through the gallery, bistro lights and colorful flags enhanced the vibrant and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of the lively Pietermaai Historic District in Curaçao. The space was a visual feast, adorned with projections showcasing Curaçao’s sun-kissed beaches, festive cultural celebrations, and the stunning nature that defines the island. From Carnival parades to the North Sea Jazz Festival, guests were virtually immersed in the island’s most beloved events and natural beauty.

A Taste of Curaçao: Signature Cocktails and Culinary Delights

At the center of this immersive space was a 360-degree wooden bar, where guests sipped on signature cocktails made with local spirits. AnnaBay Club Rum and Senior & Co.’s Genuine Curaçao Liqueur were the stars of the evening, featured in drinks like the ‘Tumba Tamarind,’ ‘Curaçao Cooler,’ and ‘Dushi Daiquri.’ These island-inspired cocktails gave guests a refreshing taste of Curaçao’s famed beverages, while they mingled and soaked in the island’s vibrant atmosphere.

The night also celebrated the island’s rich art scene, with live painting by Curaçao-based artist BAGIRA. A large-scale art piece titled ‘Fearless,’ which honored local women and their cultural impact, was a centerpiece of the event. DJ Alain Voigt, flown in directly from Curaçao, brought the energy of the Caribbean to the crowd, spinning a mix of salsa, reggaeton, pop, and other Caribbean beats. This musical backdrop made the event not only a celebration of Curaçao’s landscapes and culture but also a celebration of its rhythmic soul.

A Gathering of Influencers, Travel Experts, and Local Leaders

The event drew nearly 200 guests, including leaders from Curaçao’s Ministry of Economic Development, the Curaçao Tourist Board, and the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA). Among the distinguished attendees were Zulaika Mook MSC, Interim Secretary General and Director of Economic Development and Innovation at Curaçao’s Ministry of Economic Development, and Muryad de Bruin, Managing Director of the Curaçao Tourist Board. Additionally, local travel agents, journalists, influencers, and content creators, including Chef Mike Hard, Cori Hanna, Sherrie Tan, and Jeremy Joyce, were present, making the event a hub for both travel industry professionals and those eager to experience Curaçao firsthand.

Representatives from several of Curaçao’s premier hotels and resorts were also in attendance, offering insights into the island’s accommodations and exclusive travel packages. The event proved to be an important platform for local travel professionals to connect with the island’s tourism leaders, ensuring that the island’s growing popularity continues to translate into seamless travel experiences for visitors from around the world.

The Gateway to Curaçao: A Quick Escape from the Chicago Winter

The new Chicago–Curaçao nonstop flight is set to operate weekly on Saturdays through April 2026, offering Chicago residents the perfect winter getaway. In just five hours, travelers can trade in their cold winter coats for the island’s year-round 80-degree sunshine and the warmth of Curaçao’s welcoming culture. Whether looking to relax on its idyllic beaches, explore the rich cultural offerings, or indulge in the island’s world-class cuisine, Curaçao is now closer than ever for Midwestern travelers.

With this new route, travelers no longer need to endure long layovers or multiple connections to reach the island’s tropical paradise. As one of the Caribbean’s most alluring destinations, Curaçao’s crystal-clear waters, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture now await visitors with ease and convenience.

Discover Curaçao: A Caribbean Paradise Awaits

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beaches, dive into vibrant marine life, explore colorful colonial architecture, or indulge in world-class dining and nightlife, Curaçao offers a world of experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. With the launch of this direct route from Chicago, Curaçao is ready to welcome new visitors to its shores and immerse them in the beauty and spirit of this Caribbean gem.

For those planning their next Caribbean getaway, the new nonstop flight from Chicago to Curaçao promises to make this dream a reality, offering a fast, convenient, and exciting way to explore one of the most unique and welcoming islands in the Caribbean.