Chicago, IL, USA to Bloomington, IL, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to Bloomington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$5 by trainBest price
193 kmDistance
2h 8m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Bloomington 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.
Chicago - Bloomington operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Bloomington, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Chicago Union Station to Bloomington-Normal
Average Duration
2h 8mEstimated price
$5-85Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Bloomington
Average Duration
4h 40mEstimated price
$23-65Website
aa.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Bloomington (BMI)
Average Duration
59mEstimated price
$51-52Chicago to Bloomington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Bloomington 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.
🚗 Departing from the bustling city of Chicago, your road trip to Bloomington offers a scenic journey through the heart of Illinois. With a driving distance of 134 miles, you can expect a smooth 2-hour and 19-minute drive to your destination.
⛽ Fuel up your vehicle and hit the road, as the prices for this car trip typically range between $24 to $35. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you pass by charming small towns and picturesque countryside on your way to Bloomington.
Average price
$24 - $35
🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Bloomington by train is convenient and efficient. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs from Chicago Union Station five times a day and reaches Bloomington-Normal in approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes.
🎟️ Prices for the train ride between Chicago and Bloomington can vary from $5 to $85, offering passengers flexible options based on their preferences and budget. With reliable and frequent train services, travelers can easily plan their journey between these two Illinois cities.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Bloomington-Normal station
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Bloomington is a quick and convenient option, with the direct flight taking only 57 minutes from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Bloomington Airport.
🌍 American Airlines provides flights for this route, ensuring a comfortable journey that typically lasts around 3 hours and 58 minutes in total.
💸 Depending on the day and time of booking, the prices for flights between Chicago and Bloomington can range from $184 to $376, offering flexibility for travelers' budgets.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Bloomington Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Bloomington by bus is a convenient option with a journey time of approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. Greyhound USA operates a daily service departing from Chicago Bus Station and arriving at Bloomington station.
🚌 The bus ticket prices for this route can vary from $23 to $65, offering affordable transportation between the two cities. The distance covered during the trip is approximately 140 miles, providing a comfortable and scenic ride for passengers.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Bloomington station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket with Greyhound USA in advance to secure your seat and consider using their mobile app for real-time updates on your bus schedule: greyhound.com
• Make sure to check the Bloomington Transit Center arrival options, including local bus services and rideshare apps, to navigate the best routes once you arrive: bloomingtontransit.com
• There are dining options available near the Bloomington Transit Center; make a plan to grab a quick bite at ‘The Chocolate Moose’ or ‘Dats’, both within a short walking distance for some local flavors after your long bus ride.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Bloomington.
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The distance between Chicago and Bloomington is approximately 193.1 km by road. Travel times vary based on transportation mode. It takes about 2 hours and 8 minutes to reach Bloomington from Chicago by train, 3 hours and 57 minutes by plane, 2 hours and 19 minutes by car, and 4 hours and 40 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Bloomington is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes, and tickets can be purchased for a price range of $5-$85.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Bloomington range from $5 to $85. The cost of a bus ticket between Bloomington and Chicago can vary from $23 to $65.
To get from Chicago to Bloomington without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The distance is approximately 215.7 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 19 minutes to drive between the two cities. The cost of the journey can vary depending on factors such as gas prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency, but it is typically around $24 to $35 for a one-way trip.
If you are looking to travel from Chicago to Bloomington without a car, the best option is to take the train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes and the ticket prices range from $5 to $85. Another alternative is to take the bus, which takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $23 and $65. If you prefer to fly, there are flights available which take around 3 hours and 57 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $180 to $380.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Bloomington. You can take a direct train from Chicago Union Station to Bloomington-Normal, which operates five times a day and takes approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus service from Chicago Bus Station to Bloomington, which departs once daily and takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight duration from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Bloomington Airport is approximately 55 minutes. The cost of a flight between these two cities can vary between $184 and $376, depending on factors such as the airline, the time of year, and the booking class.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Bloomington. With over 42 hotels to choose from, you will have a lot of choices. Prices start at $39 per night, making it an affordable destination for travelers.