Chicago, IL, USA to South Bend, IN, USA from $17: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to South Bend: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$17 - DriveBest price
152 kmDistance
1h 29m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to South Bend 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 - South Bend operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and South Bend, 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 South Bend Amtrak Station
Average Duration
1h 29mEstimated price
$3-75Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823Website
https://baronsbus.com/
Bus from Chicago to South Bend, IN
Average Duration
1h 45mEstimated price
$9-45Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to South Bend Transpo
Average Duration
1h 55mEstimated price
$45-750Website
united.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to South Bend (SBN)
Average Duration
57mEstimated price
$330-750Chicago to South Bend: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and South Bend 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.
Traveling from Chicago to South Bend by train is a convenient and efficient option for those seeking a quick journey. Amtrak operates direct train services from Chicago Union Station to South Bend Amtrak Station, providing three departures daily. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes, offering a comfortable and scenic ride for passengers. Ticket prices for this route range from $3 to $75, making it an affordable transportation option for travelers. Once in South Bend, passengers can easily explore the city's attractions and enjoy a seamless travel experience.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
South Bend Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Chicago to South Bend, Amtrak is the primary operator that provides catering services. Expect to find a Café Car offering a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Traditional Chicago-style hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks are common. While there isn't table service, you can enjoy your meals and drinks at your seat.
• Amtrak offers different seating options for this route: Business Class and Coach Class. Business Class seats provide larger legroom, complimentary Wi-Fi, and access to the Business Class lounge, while Coach Class offers standard seating with reclining options. Both classes include power outlets, but if comfort is a priority, consider opting for Business Class for a more spacious experience.
• To travel from Chicago to South Bend, the main operator is Amtrak. You can book your ticket and check schedules at Amtrak's website. Other options include regional trains or buses via providers like Greyhound or FlixBus, which can also be checked at their respective websites: Greyhound and FlixBus. Once you arrive at South Bend, the Amtrak station is located conveniently near the city center, making it easy to explore nearby attractions.
• Upon arriving at South Bend Amtrak Station, you will find basic amenities, including restrooms, but note that there are no shower facilities. Luggage storage is not provided at this station, so plan to carry your belongings with you. As for navigating the station, the staff is friendly and can assist you with directions.
• The fastest way to get from South Bend Amtrak Station to the city center is by taking the South Bend Transpo bus route 1 or 3. Bus 1 will take you directly to South Bend’s downtown area, allowing for easy access to hotels and dining. You can check the Transpo bus schedule here for up-to-date information.
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Chicago to South Bend is by taking a direct 53-minute flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to South Bend Airport. United Airlines offers flights on this route, providing a reliable and efficient option. The total travel time for the flight is approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, including boarding and taxiing. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary, ranging from $166 to $413, offering passengers several options to fit their budget. Overall, the flight option presents a time-saving and comfortable way to reach South Bend from Chicago.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
South Bend Airport
Traveling by bus from Chicago to South Bend is convenient and affordable. The direct Greyhound USA bus service operates five times a day, providing flexibility for travelers. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, offering a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation. With ticket prices ranging from $9 to $45, passengers can choose the option that best fits their budget. Arriving at the South Bend Transpo station, travelers can easily access the city's attractions and enjoy a seamless transition to their destination.
Departure Point
Chicago station
Arrival Point
South Bend, IN station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus with Barons Bus or Greyhound from Chicago to South Bend, check the schedules carefully as they offer different departure times and prices ranging from $9 to $45, ensuring you select the best option for your budget.
• Arriving in South Bend, you will find that the bus station is conveniently located near local transport options; consider downloading the St. Joseph County Public Transportation (Transpo) app for real-time schedules to help you navigate the area.
• Enjoy local cuisine during your trip by planning a stopover at The Strikes at Midtown, a popular spot near your South Bend arrival, reputed for its vibrant atmosphere and good food—perfect for relaxing after your journey.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to South Bend.
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The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to South Bend is by driving. The approximate cost for this journey is around $17 to $25, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 96 miles and the drive usually takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to South Bend is by taking a train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes. Tickets for the train cost between $3 and $75 depending on the type of ticket and class.
The distance between Chicago and South Bend is approximately 118 km. The road distance is about 152 km. By car, it would take approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes to travel from Chicago to South Bend.
The best way to travel from Chicago to South Bend without a car is by train. You can take the South Shore Line, which operates between Chicago and South Bend, with multiple daily departures. The journey takes around 1 hour and 29 minutes, and ticket prices range from $3 to $75, depending on factors like class and time of travel.
The train from Chicago Union Station to South Bend Amtrak Station takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes, including transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to South Bend is by train, with fares ranging from $3 to $75. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which costs between $9 and $45 and has a similar travel time of 1 hour and 40 minutes. If time is a concern, flying may be the fastest option, with flight durations of around 2 hours and 47 minutes. However, flying tends to be more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $160 to $420.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near South Bend. with over 135+ hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly options.
Yes, you can drive from Chicago to South Bend. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 151 km. It typically takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes to drive from Chicago to South Bend.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Chicago and South Bend. It departs from the Chicago Bus Station and arrives at South Bend Transpo. The bus service operates five times a day, seven days a week, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Chicago to South Bend at the Chicago Bus Station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound USA, and they provide regular schedules for this route. The Chicago Bus Station is located in downtown Chicago, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The Chicago to South Bend bus, operated by Greyhound USA, arrives at the South Bend Transpo station. This bus station is located at 1401 S Lafayette Blvd, South Bend 46613.
To get to South Bend from the airport, you will need to first travel from the airport to downtown Chicago. The best way to do this is by taking the subway, which takes approximately 46 minutes and costs between $2-$5. Once you reach downtown Chicago, you can then take a bus, train, or drive to South Bend which is approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes away by car.
United Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Chicago and South Bend. They have direct flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to South Bend Airport. Other airlines may also have connecting flights between the two cities, but United Airlines is the most convenient option.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to South Bend is by taking a direct flight. The flight duration is approximately 53 minutes. United Airlines offers flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to South Bend Airport. Prices for this flight route range from $166 to $413.
The flight from Chicago to South Bend is relatively short, taking approximately 53 minutes for a direct flight.
Trains from Chicago to South Bend arrive at the South Bend Amtrak Station. This station is conveniently located in downtown South Bend, making it easily accessible for travelers. The Amtrak service provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago and South Bend. The train departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at South Bend Amtrak Station. The service operates three times a day and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes, providing a convenient and direct option for travelers.
To catch the train from Chicago to South Bend you will need to go to Chicago Union Station. Amtrak operates train services on this route, and the trains depart from this station.
The cost of a flight from Chicago to South Bend can range from $166 to $413.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago to South Bend can range from $3 to $75, depending on factors such as the time of travel, the type of ticket, and the class of service. It is recommended to check with the specific train operator, such as Amtrak, for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to South Bend can range from $9 to $45, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket you choose. It's recommended to book your ticket in advance to secure the best prices. Some popular bus companies operating this route include Greyhound and Coach USA. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
The cost of driving from Chicago to South Bend can vary but usually ranges from $17 to $25.