While politicians battle over a third airport in Peotone, northern Illinois residents already have a great alternative just over the border in Milwaukee. Mitchell International Airport boasts less expensive fares, reasonable parking rates and a less crowded airport.

Its Web site, www.flyMKE.com, gives you some direct comparisons between Mitchell and O’Hare airports, including side-by-side airfare and parking costs.

For instance, a five-day trip to Tampa would cost about $130 less (including parking) out of Mitchell airport than O’Hare.

Mitchell is about 45 minutes from Lake and McHenry counties. Parents traveling with kids can take advantage of Mitchell’s Family Care Room and each concourse offers one or more family restrooms.

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