Denver, CO, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $40: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Denver to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$40 by trainBest price
1486 kmDistance
4h 33m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Denver to Chicago with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
Denver - Chicago operators
Explore transport companies operating between Denver and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Denver (DEN) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
2h 19mEstimated price
$50-436Plane from Denver (DEN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
2h 25mEstimated price
$85-326Website
flyfrontier.com
Plane from Denver (DEN) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
2h 20mEstimated price
$50-506Plane from Denver (DEN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
2h 29mEstimated price
$504-507Website
united.com
Plane from Denver (DEN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
2h 29mEstimated price
$502-500Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Denver to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
18h 40mEstimated price
$40-310Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Denver Union Station to St Louis Bus Station
Average Duration
15h 55mEstimated price
$4362-4367Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station
Average Duration
6h 39mEstimated price
$4368-85Denver to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Denver and Chicago offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Denver to Chicago spanning a distance of 1009 miles. Wind your way through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the route.
💵 Depending on your budget and preferences, the cost of driving from Denver to Chicago ranges from $180 to $270. Plan your journey accordingly to make the most of your travel experience.
🌆 Arrive in the bustling city of Chicago after approximately 15 hours and 42 minutes of driving. Explore the city's iconic attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and delectable culinary scene to make unforgettable memories of your cross-country adventure.
Average price
$180 - $270
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Denver to Chicago with Amtrak. The direct service departs once daily and takes approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes to reach Chicago Union Station.
💸 Ticket prices for the Denver to Chicago train vary from $40 to $310, offering travelers options based on their budget and preferences. Experience the convenience and charm of train travel while exploring the diverse sights along the route from Denver to Chicago.
Departure Point
Denver station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak operates the train service between Denver and Chicago, and they offer a range of catering services on board, including a Café Car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Make sure to check out their seasonal menu which may include regional specialties.
• Seating Options: On the Amtrak train, you can select from several types of seating including Business Class, which offers larger seats with more legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, or Economy Class, which is more budget-friendly yet still comfortable. First Class is not available on this route.
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at Union Station in Chicago, note that you can store your luggage at the station using the Amtrak Luggage Service. There are restroom facilities available as well; however, showers are not provided. To navigate the station, grab a map at the information desk to help you find local transport options easily.
🛫 Flying from Denver to Chicago is a convenient and quick option with a direct flight taking just 2 hours and 10 minutes from Denver Airport to Chicago Midway Airport.
🌆 The total travel time from Denver to Chicago by plane is approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes. Ticket prices for flights between these two cities can range from $50 to $436, making it accessible for various budgets.
Departure Point
Denver Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Starting from Denver Union Station, travelers can embark on an approximately 23-hour bus journey to Chicago with a transfer in St Louis. Greyhound USA operates the Denver to Chicago route, offering a convenient travel option for those looking to explore the Midwest by bus.
🛣️ The route from Denver to Chicago covers a distance of 1,547 miles and involves 2 transfers along the way. Passengers will board buses to Dallas, New York, and finally Chicago, each leg of the trip adding to the overall travel experience. Despite the multiple transfers, the journey offers a unique opportunity to see different parts of the country.
💰 Ticket prices for the Denver to Chicago bus route can range from $129 to $266, making it a cost-effective way to travel between these two vibrant cities. With a total travel time of 23 hours and 34 minutes, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as they head towards their destination in the comfort of a Greyhound bus.
Departure Point
Denver Union Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Prepare for a lengthy journey; with a total travel time of approximately 23 hours and 34 minutes and two transfers, ensure you have ample snacks and entertainment to stay comfortable during your trip.
• When transferring in Effingham, Illinois, check the schedule in advance to minimize layover times; you can find the latest bus schedules for Greyhound services here: greyhound.com
• Upon arrival at the Chicago Bus Station, be aware of the limited services available right outside; for food and public transport options, check the nearby Union Station for dining and train connections, which you can explore at unionstation.org
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Denver to Chicago.
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The distance between Denver and Chicago is approximately 1485 km by air, 1624 km by road, and 1485 km by train. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 18 hours and 40 minutes, by bus it takes 23 hours and 55 minutes, and by plane it takes about 4 hours and 38 minutes. Taking a bus to Colorado Springs and then flying to Chicago can be done in about 7 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Denver to Chicago would be by train, with ticket prices ranging from $40 to $310. Although it takes a longer travel time of 18 hours and 40 minutes, it is a more budget-friendly choice. However, if time is of the essence, flying is the fastest option, taking only 4 hours and 38 minutes. Flight prices vary from $55 to $400, providing a quicker but slightly more expensive alternative.
The prices of train tickets from Denver to Chicago can range from $40 to $310, depending on factors such as class of service and booking time. Bus ticket prices for the journey from Chicago to Denver can fluctuate between $129 and $266.
To travel from Denver to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 1624 km, which takes about 15 hours and 42 minutes. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of the journey by car can range from $180 to $270, considering expenses such as fuel and tolls.
The best way to travel from Denver to Chicago without a car is by train. It takes approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $40 and $310. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes about 4 hours and 38 minutes and costs between $55 and $400. Another option is taking a bus, which takes around 23 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $120 and $270.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Denver and Chicago. The train journey takes approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes, departing from Denver and arriving at Chicago Union Station. However, there is no direct bus link between the two cities, but there are bus services available with transfers that take around 23 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Denver and Chicago typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of travel, and booking time. On average, prices can range from $55 to $396 for a one-way ticket.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels available, you are sure to find something that suits your needs and budget. Prices for hotels start at $58 per night, providing a wide range of options for all travelers.