Chicago, IL, USA to Baltimore, MD, USA from $35: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Chicago to Baltimore: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$35 by trainBest price
978 kmDistance
4h 9m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Baltimore 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 - Baltimore operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Baltimore, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
flyfrontier.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Baltimore (BWI)
Average Duration
1h 48mEstimated price
$60-359Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Baltimore (BWI) via Columbus
Average Duration
4h 5mEstimated price
$608-2573Website
delta.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Baltimore (BWI) via Detroit
Average Duration
4h 7mEstimated price
$356-6020Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Baltimore (BWI)
Average Duration
1h 46mEstimated price
$608-2573Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Washington Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station
Average Duration
41mEstimated price
$5801-5802Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station
Average Duration
24h 46mEstimated price
$606-607Train from Chicago Union Station to Rockville Amtrak
Average Duration
16h 36mEstimated price
$2572-580340Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Washington Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station
Average Duration
32mEstimated price
$58030-2577Contact phone
1-866-743-3682Website
mta.maryland.gov
Train from Washington Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station
Average Duration
1h 1mEstimated price
$5803-5807Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Baltimore Downtown Bus Station
Average Duration
17h 50mEstimated price
$604-605Drive from Chicago to Baltimore
Average Duration
11h 38mEstimated price
$608-609Chicago to Baltimore: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Baltimore 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 filled with scenic views and diverse landscapes as you journey 703 miles from Chicago to Baltimore. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way eastward.
💰 Prices for the trip range from $120 to $190, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable adventure. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your travel funds during this exciting drive.
🌆 Arrive in Baltimore after approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes of driving, ready to explore the vibrant city known for its historic charm, delicious seafood, and rich cultural experiences. Your road trip from Chicago to Baltimore promises to be a memorable journey filled with discovery and new experiences.
Average price
$120 - $190
🚆 Traveling from Chicago USA to Baltimore USA by train is a scenic journey that takes approximately 24 hours and 46 minutes. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs from Chicago Union Station three times a week - on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
🛤️ The train route spans 812 miles and offers a unique travel experience with a transfer in Washington, D.C. The first step involves boarding the Capitol Limited train at Chicago Union Station, which will take about 17 hours and 25 minutes to reach Washington Union Station.
🎫 Prices for the train ticket between Chicago and Baltimore can range from $35 to $580, depending on factors such as availability and class of service. With Amtrak as the operating agency, passengers can enjoy a comfortable and leisurely journey to their destination at Baltimore Penn Station.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Baltimore Penn Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: For your train trip from Chicago to Baltimore, Amtrak is the primary operator. They offer a cafe car with snack options and beverages, including coffee, soft drinks, and light meals. You can also order items from the café to enjoy at your seat.
• Seating Options: Amtrak provides different seating classes on the Cardinal service. You can choose from Coach Class (Economy), which offers reclining seats with legroom, or upgrade to Business Class, which has more spacious seating and complimentary snacks and beverages. First Class is not available on this route.
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at Baltimore Penn Station, you can check your luggage at the Amtrak bag claim for easy exploration. There are also restroom facilities available, but showers are not provided in the station. Make sure to grab a station map to help navigate.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Chicago to Baltimore is by taking a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Baltimore Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
💰 The prices for flights between Baltimore and Chicago can vary, with tickets costing anywhere from $60 to $257, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget considerations. Ultimately, flying is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for those looking to reach Baltimore from Chicago in just over 4 hours.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Baltimore Airport
🛣️ The journey spans approximately 17 hours and 50 minutes, covering a distance of 750 miles. Passengers will experience a transfer during the trip, with a stop in Cleveland, OH before reaching the final destination of Baltimore Downtown Bus Station.
💵 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Baltimore bus route range from $80 to $170, providing flexibility for different budgets. Travelers can enjoy the scenic views along the way while knowing they have a comfortable and reliable transportation option to reach their destination.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Baltimore Downtown Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to arrive at the Chicago Bus Station a bit earlier than your departure time, as this station can get busy; also check the latest bus schedule on Greyhound's website to confirm your bus's departure.
• During your roughly 18-hour journey, pack snacks and drinks since the bus may have limited food options along the way; local favorites include Chicago-style popcorn or a good ol' beef jerky to keep your energy up.
• Upon arriving at the Baltimore Downtown Bus Station, be prepared for a crowd; familiarize yourself with the layout of the station through this station map, and consider using local ride-sharing apps or the Baltimore Light RailLink for smooth navigation into the city.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Baltimore.
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The distance between Chicago and Baltimore is approximately 978 km by air and 1131 km by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. For example, it takes 4 hours and 8 minutes to reach Baltimore from Chicago by plane, 18 hours and 20 minutes by train, 4 hours and 48 minutes by flying to Reagan Washington and then taking a train, and 11 hours and 38 minutes by car. The bus journey from Chicago to Baltimore takes approximately 17 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chicago to Baltimore is by train, with tickets ranging from $40 to $290. However, this option can be time-consuming as it takes approximately 24 hours and 46 minutes to reach Baltimore. If time is a priority, then flying is the quickest option, taking only 4 hours and 8 minutes and costing between $55 and $260.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Baltimore can range from $35 to $580, depending on the class and type of service selected. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between Baltimore and Chicago can range from $80 to $170, depending on the bus company and the type of amenities provided.
To get from Chicago to Baltimore without using public transportation, you can take a road trip. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1131 km, which usually takes around 11 hours and 38 minutes. You can rent a car or use your own vehicle, and the cost can range from $120 to $190 depending on various factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The most convenient option for traveling from Chicago to Baltimore without a car is by taking a flight, which takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes. This is the fastest way to reach your destination and typically costs between $55 and $260. Another alternative is to take a bus, which takes longer at 17 hours and 25 minutes, but is a more affordable option with prices ranging from $80 to $170. Lastly, you can also consider taking a train via Washington, which takes approximately 18 hours and 20 minutes and has ticket prices ranging from $30 to $600.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Baltimore. Travelers can take a train from Chicago Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station, with the journey taking approximately 24 hours and 46 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service available, operated by Greyhound USA, which departs from Chicago Bus Station and arrives at Baltimore Downtown Bus Station, with a travel time of around 17 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between Chicago and Baltimore typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. The price of a flight varies between $60 and $257. Once you arrive at Baltimore Airport, you can take the subway from the airport to Baltimore city, which takes approximately 23 minutes and costs $2-$5.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Baltimore. With over 395 hotels available, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $50, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or a budget-friendly stay, Baltimore has a wide range of hotels to choose from.