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Chicago, IL, USA to Denver, CO, USA from $40: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Denver, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Denver: 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.

$40 by trainBest price
1483.2 kmDistance
5h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Denver 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
5h  6m
Estimated price
$50-266
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
18h  15m
Estimated price
$40-310
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1483.2 km
Duration: 5h 6m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$50-266
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$59-371
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  58m
Estimated price
$116-536
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
24h  40m
Estimated price
$125-263
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
15h  40m
Estimated price
$180-270
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Denver

Traveling from Chicago to Denver offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling city vibe of Chicago and the breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities that Denver has to offer.

Best Neighbourhoods in Denver

Denver boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and vibes.

LoDo (Lower Downtown)
• Historic buildings with modern breweries and restaurants.
• Vibrant nightlife and art galleries.
RiNo (River North Art District)
• Murals and street art transform the area.
• Home to unique shops and craft breweries.
Capitol Hill
• Eclectic vibe with vintage shops and cafes.
• Close to the State Capitol and museums.

Best Times To Visit Denver's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your Denver experience.

Red Rocks Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy tranquility and fewer crowds.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Late spring to early summer offers blooming flowers and fewer visitors.
Denver Art Museum
Explore on Wednesdays when admission is free and crowds are lighter.

Denver Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Denver experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, making it vital to plan your visit according to the weather. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and are often the best times to explore, while winter snow can enhance the charm but also add to travel logistics.

Dining Recommendation in Denver

Try the green chili stew at Casa Bonita, where the vibrant flavors showcase Colorado's Southwestern influence, offering a delightful contrast to Chicago's deep-dish pizza. The lively atmosphere, complete with entertainment and a relaxed vibe, sets the stage for a unique dining experience that reflects Denver’s local culture.

Chicago - Denver operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$190-460

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver via Kansas City

Average Duration
4h 13m
Estimated price
$200-470

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver via Omaha

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$190-460

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver via Minneapolis

Average Duration
4h 33m
Estimated price
$210-490

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver via Colorado Springs

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$200-480
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Denver

Average Duration
2h 52m
Estimated price
$150-600

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Denver via Cedar Rapids

Average Duration
4h 37m
Estimated price
$150-600

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Denver via Kansas City

Average Duration
4h 52m
Estimated price
$160-600
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Denver

Average Duration
2h 59m
Estimated price
$45-250

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Denver

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$45-250
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Denver

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$150-600
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Denver

Average Duration
18h 15m
Estimated price
$40-310

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3-75
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$35-85

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Denver Union Station

Average Duration
17h 20m
Estimated price
$90-180
Contact phone
+1 719-687-3456
Website
groometransportation.com

Bus from Colorado Springs Airport to Denver International Airport

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$30-50

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

Traveling between Chicago and Denver 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 1622.2 km from Chicago to Denver with an estimated drive time of 15 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Experience flexibility in pricing, with car travel costs ranging between $180 to $270 for the trip from Chicago to Denver.
Average price
$180 - $270
🚂 Starting your journey in Chicago, you will board the direct Amtrak train departing from Chicago Union Station to Denver. The train service operates once daily and takes approximately 18 hours and 15 minutes to reach your destination. 🎟️ Pricing for the train tickets between Chicago and Denver can range from $40 to $310, allowing travelers to choose the fare that best fits their budget and preferences. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the experience of traveling by train from the Windy City to the Mile High City.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Denver station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak train from Chicago to Denver typically include a café car where you can purchase a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals. There may be options for pre-packaged sandwiches and salads, as well as hot coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. Amtrak also offers meal service for First Class passengers in the Dining Car, where you can enjoy freshly prepared meals at no additional charge.
• For the Chicago to Denver route, Amtrak provides several seating options. The services typically include Coach Class, which is the most economical option with standard seating and access to the café car. Upgrade to Business Class for larger, more comfortable seats with additional legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. If you’re looking for an enhanced experience, First Class offers spacious seating, gourmet meals in the Dining Car, and more personalized service.
• For your journey, Amtrak is the primary operator for trains from Chicago to Denver. You can check their schedules and book tickets on the Amtrak website at amtrak.com Another operator you may consider for similar routes or connecting trips is VIA Rail although it primarily serves Canada. For local transport options in Denver, visit the Regional Transportation District (RTD) website at rtd-denver.com
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Denver is a convenient and relatively quick journey. The direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Denver Airport typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes with airlines such as Frontier and Southwest. ✈️ The flight distance of approximately 900 miles between Chicago and Denver can be covered in just over 5 hours by plane. Both Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate regular flights connecting these two bustling cities, offering travelers flexibility and choice. 💸 Ticket prices for flights from Chicago to Denver can range from $50 to $266, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Denver Airport
🚌 When traveling from Chicago to Denver by bus, there is no direct route available. Instead, you'll have to take a bus from Chicago Bus Station with transfers in between, making the journey approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes. 🌎 Route 1: This option involves a longer travel time of 1 day and 12 hours, covering a distance of 2639.3 km with 2 transfers along the way. The steps include buses towards Nashville, Los Angeles, and finally Denver, giving you a scenic journey through different cities. 🌟 Route 2: For a slightly quicker option, Route 2 takes 1 day and 4 hours, covering a distance of 1899.0 km with a transfer in St Louis.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Denver Union Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to double-check the schedule for transfers at St. Louis, as your layover for transferring buses can be a bit tight; consider checking Greyhound's website for real-time updates at greyhound.com
• Plan for a lengthy journey; pack snacks and activities, such as books or download movies to your device, ensuring your phone or tablet is charged before boarding the bus.
• Upon arrival at Denver Union Station, familiarize yourself with the local transportation options like the RTD light rail to easily navigate around the city; visit rtd-denver.com for route maps and schedules.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Denver.

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The road distance between Chicago and Denver is 1622.5 km. Traveling by train from Chicago to Denver takes approximately 18 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, combining a train ride to Milwaukee with a flight to Denver can cut the travel time down to about 6 hours and 40 minutes. If one opts to fly directly, the journey by plane from Chicago to Denver typically takes around 5 hours and 6 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Denver is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $40 to $310. Although it takes longer at 18 hours and 15 minutes, this mode of transportation can be budget-friendly. However, for a more time-efficient journey, flying is the best choice, taking only 5 hours and 6 minutes with ticket prices ranging from $50 to $270.
The prices for a train journey between Chicago and Denver can range from $40 to $310, depending on the class and time of booking. On the other hand, bus tickets for the route from Denver to Chicago typically cost between $125 and $263.
To travel from Chicago to Denver without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance by road is 1622.2 km, and it typically takes around 15 hours and 40 minutes to complete the journey by car.
The most efficient way to travel from Chicago to Denver without a car is by taking a flight, which typically takes around 5 hours and costs between $50 and $270. Another option is to opt for the train, which takes longer at 18 hours and 15 minutes, with a cost ranging from $40 to $310. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can consider taking the bus, which takes approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $120 and $270.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Denver operated by Amtrak. The journey takes approximately 18 hours and 15 minutes and services operate daily. There is also a bus service provided by Greyhound USA, but it requires transfers and takes around 24 hours and 40 minutes to reach Denver from Chicago.
The quickest direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Denver Airport typically takes 2 hours and 40 minutes. The prices for a flight between Denver and Chicago can vary, with fares ranging from $50 to $266 depending on factors such as airline, booking time, and available deals.
There are over 1053 hotels available in Denver, offering a wide range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in Denver start at $55 per night, making it accessible for various budget ranges.