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Chicago, IL, USA to Detroit, MI, USA from $12: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Detroit, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Detroit: 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.

$12 by trainBest price
382.3 kmDistance
3h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Detroit 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$12-122
Recommended
route map
Distance: 382.3 km
Duration: 3h 55m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$26-90
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$32-387
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$37-336
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$37-503
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$154-573
Company
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$228-234
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Traveling From Chicago to Detroit

The journey from Chicago to Detroit offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling urban culture of the Windy City and the rich automotive history of Michigan's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Detroit

Detroit boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Midtown
• Home to the Detroit Institute of Arts
• Vibrant dining and nightlife options
Greektown
• Known for its Greek cuisine and restaurants
• Bustling atmosphere with casinos and entertainment
Corktown
• One of Detroit's oldest neighborhoods
• Trendy spots for coffee and craft beer

Best Times To Visit Detroit's Attractions

Planning your visit to Detroit can greatly enhance your experience at its attractions.

Detroit Institute of Arts
Visit on weekdays during the morning for fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere.
Motown Museum
Early afternoons on weekdays provide a quieter tour experience.
Belle Isle Park
Early mornings during summer offer calm views and a peaceful stroll.

Detroit Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Detroit experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers, making late spring and early fall ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. Weather can significantly impact your travel plans, so checking forecasts in advance helps you pack appropriately and enjoy your visit.

Dining in Detroit

Try Detroit-style pizza at Buddy's, where the thick, rectangular crust and tangy sauce create a delightful twist on traditional Chicago deep-dish. This restaurant not only showcases local ingredients but also embodies the vibrant atmosphere and rich flavors distinct to Detroit's culinary scene.

Chicago - Detroit operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Dearborn

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$11-120

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
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Detroit Bus Station

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$30-80
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Detroit Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$26-90
Plane
Website
https://www.delta.com/

Plane from Chicago Midway to Detroit Airport

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
$29-380
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Chicago Midway to Detroit Airport

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$180-370
Website
https://www.aa.com/

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Detroit Airport

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$190-700
Website
https://www.united.com/

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Detroit Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$190-700

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

Traveling between Chicago and Detroit 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 from Chicago to Detroit covering a distance of 453.8 km. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of budget-friendly travel options, with prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the road trip from Chicago to Detroit by car. 🌆 Reach Detroit in approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of the Motor City.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚂 Travel from Chicago to Detroit by train takes approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic journey through the Midwest. 🎫 The prices for train tickets between Chicago and Detroit can range from $12 to $122, providing travelers with various budget options for their trip. 🚉 There are two main routes for the train journey from Chicago to Detroit, both taking around 5 hours and 20-25 minutes to cover the 444.2 km distance, allowing passengers to choose the most suitable travel time for their schedule.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Detroit, consider Amtrak's onboard services, which offer a café car featuring a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. You can enjoy items like sandwiches, salads, and various snacks while traveling. Be sure to check their menu upon boarding for any seasonal offerings and prices.
• The Amtrak Wolverine service provides different seating options: Business Class with extra space and amenities (including complimentary snacks and drinks) and Economy Class for budget-friendly travelers. If you're looking for a more comfortable journey with additional perks, opt for Business Class, which also allows for easier boarding and disembarking.
• The main operator for the Chicago to Detroit route is Amtrak. You can find more information, including schedules and ticket purchases, on their website: Amtrak. If you’re looking for alternative options, you might consider Greyhound as well (Greyhound). Useful links include Chicago Union Station Info and Detroit Amtrak Station Details, where you can find station maps and local transport schedules.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Detroit is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. ✈️ The journey from Chicago Midway Airport to Detroit Airport typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes, providing a hassle-free way to travel between these two bustling cities. 💸 Flight prices between Chicago and Detroit can range from $228 to $234, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Detroit Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Detroit by bus is a convenient and cost-effective option. Greyhound USA operates multiple services daily between the two cities, with the journey typically taking around 6 hours. 🛣️ The direct bus route from Chicago Bus Station to Detroit Bus Station covers a distance of approximately 506.9 km. Tickets for this route can range from $26 to $90, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets. 🌆 For those looking to explore alternative routes, options with transfers through cities like Cleveland, OH are available, though they may extend the travel time to around 8-10 hours. Barons Bus also offers a route with a transfer in Toledo for those seeking a different travel experience.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Detroit Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip from Chicago to Detroit, check the Greyhound schedule at greyhound.com to ensure you pick a convenient departure time; buses typically depart three times daily but can fill up quickly.
• Pack snacks and entertainment, as the bus ride takes approximately 6 hours, and you should be prepared for limited stops along the way, particularly if you're on a direct Greyhound service.
• Upon arriving at the Detroit Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the local transit options by reviewing the station map available on the Detroit Department of Transportation website at detroitmi.gov it's essential to plan your next steps as the station connects with local buses, taxis, and ride shares.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Detroit.

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The cheapest way to get from Chicago to Detroit is by taking a bus. Bus tickets typically range from $24 to $160 depending on the time and type of bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Detroit is by flying. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, with prices ranging from $65 to $370.
The distance from Chicago to Detroit is approximately 383 kilometers. If you are traveling by road, the distance is slightly longer at 454 kilometers. The journey between the two cities can take around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your chosen mode of transportation.
The best way to travel from Chicago to Detroit without a car is by train. Amtrak operates multiple daily routes between the two cities, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes. Ticket prices vary depending on the class of service and the time of booking, ranging from $12 to $130.
The travel time from Chicago to Detroit typically takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes.
The cheapest option for traveling from Chicago to Detroit is by bus. This method takes approximately 7 hours and costs between $24 and $160. Another option is taking the train, which takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $12 and $130. Lastly, flying is the fastest option, taking about 3 hours and 47 minutes, with prices ranging from $65 to $370.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Detroit. With over 325 hotels available, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $60 per night, making it affordable to find a place to stay that meets your needs. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, Detroit has something for every traveler.
Yes, you can drive from Chicago to Detroit. The driving distance is approximately 454 km, and it takes around 4 hours and 39 minutes to complete the journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus service between Chicago and Detroit. The buses depart from Chicago and arrive in Detroit, with four buses departing daily. The bus service operates every day, and the journey typically takes around 7 hours.
You can catch the Chicago to Detroit bus from the Chicago station. This station is the starting point for Indian Trails bus services to Detroit.
The bus from Chicago to Detroit arrives at the Detroit station. The bus service, operated by Indian Trails, terminates at this station.
To get from the airport to Detroit, you can take a flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The flight duration is around 1 hour and ticket prices can range from $100 to $300, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Delta and Southwest Airlines are the airlines that provide flights between Chicago and Detroit. Both airlines operate flights from Chicago Midway Airport to Detroit Airport. Delta offers multiple daily flights, while Southwest Airlines operates a few flights per day on this route.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Detroit is by plane. There are direct flights available from Chicago Midway Airport to Detroit Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour. Airlines such as Delta and Southwest Airlines offer flights between these cities. The prices of flights between Chicago and Detroit range from $68 to $367, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The flight from Chicago to Detroit typically takes around 1 hour.
The cost of a flight from Chicago to Detroit can vary between $68 and $367.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Detroit ranges from $12 to $122.
The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to Detroit can vary depending on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and ticket availability. On average, prices range from $24 to $160.
The cost to drive from Chicago to Detroit can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. On average, you can expect to spend around $50-$75 on fuel for the round trip.