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Washington, DC, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $30: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Washington, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Washington to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$30 by trainBest price
963.3 kmDistance
3h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Washington 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.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$58-428
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
17h  40m
Estimated price
$30-240
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 963.3 km
Duration: 3h 55m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  12m
Estimated price
$38-576
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$48-696
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$53-378
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
18h  25m
Estimated price
$85-170
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
11h  35m
Estimated price
$120-190
Company
Various
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$144-561
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Washington to Chicago

The journey from Washington to Chicago presents a striking contrast between the historic allure of the nation’s capital and the vibrant urban vibe of the Windy City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Wicker Park
• Famous for its hipster culture and arts scene.
• Offers eclectic shops and trendy restaurants.
Lincoln Park
• Home to beautiful parks and the zoo.
• Features upscale dining and shopping options.
The Loop
• The city's central business hub with stunning architecture.
• Hosts iconic attractions like Millennium Park.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience of Chicago’s top spots.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit early on weekdays for fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Millennium Park
Go early in the morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer people.
Navy Pier
Visit on weekdays in the spring or fall for a calm and enjoyable stroll.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters that can significantly influence your travel plans. The best times to visit are generally spring and fall when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.

Dining Recommendation in Chicago

One must-try dish in Chicago is the deep-dish pizza, which offers a hearty, layered experience distinct from the lighter fare often found in Washington's dining scene. Enjoying this iconic dish at a local pizzeria immerses you in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates bold flavors and the city's rich Italian heritage.

Washington - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Washington and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$58-428
Website
delta.com

Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$50-370

Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
4h 36m
Estimated price
$55-420
Website
aa.com

Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$150-600
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Washington Union Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
17h 40m
Estimated price
$30-240
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Washington Union Station to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$14-200
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Washington Union Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
18h 25m
Estimated price
$85-170
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
1-866-743-3682
Website
mta.maryland.gov

Other from Washington Union Station to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$2-9
Contact phone
+1 202-637-7000
Website
wmata.com

Other from Farragut West to Washington Dulles International Airport

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$2-6

Washington to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Washington 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 a scenic road trip covering 1124.9 km from Washington to the vibrant city of Chicago. 💰 Prices for the drive from Washington to Chicago typically range between $120 to $190, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable and convenient transportation choice. ⏰ Set aside around 11 hours and 35 minutes for this road adventure, allowing ample time to explore the diverse attractions of both Washington and Chicago while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of a car journey.
Average price
$120 - $190
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Washington to Chicago with Amtrak. 🕰️ With a travel time of approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes, passengers can relax and enjoy the picturesque views along the route. 💰 Ticket prices for the Washington to Chicago train range from $30 to $240, offering budget-friendly options for different traveler preferences.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
🛫 Flying from Washington to Chicago is convenient and efficient, with the quickest direct flight taking just 2 hours and 5 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between these two cities can range from $58 to $428, offering varying price points to suit different budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Reagan Washington Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 The journey from Washington to Chicago by bus is approximately 18 hours and 25 minutes long. Greyhound USA operates the bus services, departing from Washington Union Station and arriving at Chicago Bus Station twice daily. 🚌 Travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride through scenic routes as they make their way from the bustling capital city of Washington to the vibrant city of Chicago. The bus journey offers an affordable transportation option with ticket prices ranging from $85 to $170.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider using Greyhound USA for your journey, as they operate direct buses from Washington Union Station to Chicago Bus Station, providing a reliable option for your trip; check their schedules and book tickets at Greyhound's official website.
• Bring snacks and entertainment for the 18h 25m journey, especially because meal breaks can be limited; download movies or shows on your device and pack some easy-to-eat snacks to keep you energized along the way.
• Upon arrival at Chicago Bus Station, use the nearby 'Union Station' transit hub to access CTA trains and buses, making it easier to explore the city; an interactive station map can be found at Chicago Transit Authority's website.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Washington to Chicago.

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The distance between Washington and Chicago is 960.8 km by air. Traveling by train will take approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes. If you opt to take a combination of train to Baltimore and then a flight to Chicago, the total travel time will be around 4 hours and 12 minutes. Flying directly from Washington to Chicago will be the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Washington to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $30 to $240, but it takes 17 hours and 40 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 55 minutes at a cost of $55 to $430.
Prices for traveling between Washington and Chicago using different modes of transportation vary. Taking a train can cost between $30 to $240, while a bus ticket ranges from $85 to $170.
To travel from Washington to Chicago without using public transportation, you can opt to drive the 1124.9 km distance. It takes approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes to reach Chicago by car. The estimated cost of the trip ranges from $120 to $190 for fuel, tolls, and other expenses.
The most efficient way to travel from Washington to Chicago without a car is by taking a flight, which typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $55 and $430. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $30 and $240. You could also consider taking a bus, which takes around 18 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $85 and $170.
Yes, there is a direct link between Washington and Chicago by both train and bus. The Amtrak train service departs from Washington Union Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station, taking approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes for the journey. Additionally, Greyhound USA offers a direct bus service departing from Washington Union Station and arriving at Chicago Bus Station, with a travel time of around 18 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight from Washington to Chicago typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $58 to $428 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats.
In Chicago, there is a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, with over 1557 hotels available at varying price points. Prices start at $79 per night, making it accessible for different budgets.