Wilmington, DE, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $432: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Wilmington 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.

$432 by trainBest price

1215 kmDistance

4h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Wilmington - Chicago operators

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

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Wilmington to 30th Street Station

Average Duration

23m

Estimated price

$375-435

Train from Wilmington to Washington Union Station

Average Duration

1h 39m

Estimated price

$379-437

Train from Wilmington to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration

Estimated price

$3769-437

Train from Wilmington to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

26h 20m

Estimated price

$432-433

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Wilmington to 30th Street Station

Average Duration

19m

Estimated price

$3768-6392

Train from Wilmington to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

$6396-370

Train from Wilmington to Washington Union Station

Average Duration

1h 24m

Estimated price

$6394-4320

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Wilmington Bus Station to Baltimore Downtown Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

$609-432

Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

16h 40m

Estimated price

$605-37670

Bus from Wilmington Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

18h 55m

Estimated price

$430-431

Plane

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration

2h 13m

Estimated price

$439-4320

Website

aa.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration

2h 29m

Estimated price

$7609-600

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration

2h 26m

Estimated price

$438-373

all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Wilmington to Chicago

Average Duration

12h 27m

Estimated price

$434-435

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

Traveling between Wilmington 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 road trip from Wilmington to Chicago, spanning 755 miles of diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you traverse through several states on your journey to the Windy City. 💸 Discover budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $130 to $200 for the entire trip, offering flexibility for your travel expenses. Plan your stops wisely to refuel, grab a bite to eat, and marvel at the changing scenery as you make your way to the vibrant city of Chicago. 🏙️ Arrive in Chicago after approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the city's bustling atmosphere, iconic architecture, and delicious cuisine. Explore the city's renowned landmarks, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods to create unforgettable memories on your adventure from Wilmington to the heart of the Midwest.

Average price

$130 - $200

🚂 Traveling by train from Wilmington to Chicago offers a convenient and scenic journey with direct services departing three times a week on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The trip takes approximately 26 hours and 20 minutes. 💰 Train tickets between Wilmington and Chicago range from $37 to $639, depending on the class of service and availability. With a travel time of 20 hours and 24 minutes, passengers can relax and enjoy the picturesque views along the route.

Departure Point

Wilmington station

Arrival Point

Chicago Union Station

🛫 Flying from Wilmington to Chicago is most convenient with a direct flight from Philadelphia Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. This efficient route takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, allowing for a smooth and quick journey. Airlines like Frontier, Southwest, and Delta provide options for this route.

Departure Point

Philadelphia Airport

Arrival Point

Chicago Midway Airport

🚌 Beginning your journey from Wilmington to Chicago by bus involves a route that includes transfers at Baltimore Downtown Bus Station. The total travel time is estimated to be around 18 hours and 55 minutes. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket for the Wilmington to Chicago route typically ranges from $88 to $208. This affordable transportation option allows travelers to experience the scenic views and vibrant culture from Delaware to Illinois.

Departure Point

Wilmington Bus Station

Arrival Point

Chicago Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wilmington to Chicago.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Wilmington and Chicago is approximately 1049.3 km by air or road. The typical travel time by train from Wilmington to Chicago is 20 hours and 24 minutes. Alternatively, taking a train to Philadelphia and then flying to Chicago Midway takes about 4 hours and 48 minutes. By car, the journey from Chicago to Wilmington takes around 12 hours and 27 minutes, while taking a bus can take up to 18 hours and 55 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Wilmington to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $40 to $300. Although it takes a longer time of 26 hours and 20 minutes, this option is more budget-friendly. However, if time is a more crucial factor, the quickest option is to take a combination of train and flight, which takes approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $60 and $650.

The prices for traveling from Wilmington to Chicago by train range from $37 to $639, depending on the class and time of booking. Meanwhile, the prices for traveling by bus between Chicago and Wilmington range from $88 to $208, again depending on the bus company and time of booking.

To travel from Wilmington to Chicago without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1215.1 km and it takes around 12 hours and 27 minutes to complete the journey by car. Depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls, the cost of the trip can range from $130 to $200.

If you are traveling from Wilmington to Chicago without a car, the best option would be to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 18 hours and 55 minutes, and the fares range from $85 to $210.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Wilmington and Chicago. The Amtrak Acela operates a train service that departs from Wilmington station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 26 hours and 20 minutes.

The flight between Wilmington and Chicago typically takes about 2 hours. However, this is the duration for a direct flight from Philadelphia Airport to Chicago Midway Airport.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels available, travelers are sure to find something that suits their needs and budgets. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, offering a range of affordable options for visitors. From luxury downtown hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, there is a wide variety of choices to ensure a comfortable stay in the Windy City.