Chicago, IL, USA to State College, PA, USA from $27: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to State College: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$27 - Train, BusBest price

829 kmDistance

4h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to State College 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.

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Chicago - State College operators

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

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to State College

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$1200-5103

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Harrisburg

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$160-5104

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to State College

Average Duration

1h 47m

Estimated price

$5100-5101

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Johnstown

Average Duration

1h 42m

Estimated price

$5102-1200

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station

Average Duration

9h 25m

Estimated price

$5105-5106

Train from Chicago Union Station to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station

Average Duration

14h 24m

Estimated price

$30-1200

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Pittsburgh Intermodal Station

Average Duration

11h 55m

Estimated price

$277-120

Bus from Pittsburgh Intermodal Station to State College Bus Station

Average Duration

2h 30m

Estimated price

$276-1209

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1-844-800-6828

Website

ourbus.com

Other from Harrisburg, PA to State College, PA

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$278-274

Contact phone

+1 800-858-8555

Website

trailways.com

Other from Pittsburgh, PA to State College, PA

Average Duration

4h 40m

Estimated price

$5108-2532

Contact phone

+1-877-462-6342

Website

us.megabus.com

Other from Pittsburgh, PA to State College, PA

Average Duration

3h 15m

Estimated price

$2533-2531

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Other from Chicago Bus Station to Columbus

Average Duration

7h 30m

Estimated price

$30-5109

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

Traveling between Chicago and State College 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.

Departure Point

Chicago O'Hare Airport

Arrival Point

State College Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Consider booking your flight on a Monday or Tuesday, as these days often have lower fares on routes from Chicago to State College, typically ranging between €192 and €315.

• Upon arriving at University Park Airport (SCE) in State College, be prepared to navigate a small yet efficient terminal; expect quick security checks but limited dining options post-security, so plan to grab snacks before the flight or eat after arrival.

• Take note that taxi fares from University Park Airport to downtown State College are approximately $25-$30; for budget-friendly options, consider using local rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, which can also give you an approximate fare through their apps prior to requesting a ride.

Traveling from Chicago to State College by bus can be convenient, albeit a long journey. The trip typically takes around 16 to 19 hours, depending on the specific route and transfers. The buses are operated by various companies such as Greyhound, OurBus, and Megabus. One common route includes a transfer in Pittsburgh with the journey divided into two legs. Another option involves a transfer in Washington DC before reaching State College. The varying routes offer flexibility in terms of departure times and prices, with fares ranging from $64 to $204. Please note that the duration, routes, and services may be subject to change, so it's important to check the current schedules and availability before planning your trip.

Departure Point

Chicago Bus Station

Arrival Point

State College Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to State College.

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The distance between Chicago and State College is approximately 828.8 km by road. The road distance is slightly longer at 916.0 km. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train and bus, it takes around 14 hours and 9 minutes to reach State College from Chicago. Taking a plane is the fastest option, with a travel time of about 4 hours and 44 minutes. Driving by car usually takes around 9 hours and 27 minutes, while a bus journey can take approximately 16 hours and 39 minutes.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chicago to State College is by train and bus, which costs between $30 and $210 and takes approximately 14 hours and 24 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to travel is by plane, which takes about 4 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $120 and $550.

When traveling from Chicago to State College the prices for a bus ticket can range from $64 to $204.

To travel from Chicago to State College without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 915.7 km, and it typically takes about 9 hours and 27 minutes to drive. The cost of driving can vary, but it is usually around $100 to $150 for gas and tolls.

The best way to travel from Chicago to State College without a car is by taking a train and then a bus. This option takes approximately 14 hours and 9 minutes and can cost between $27 to $260, depending on the type of ticket and class. Another option is to take a plane, which takes about 4 hours and 44 minutes, but this option is usually more expensive.

There is no direct link between Chicago and State College. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 16 hours and 39 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak, departing from Chicago Bus Station and arriving at State College Amtrak Bus Stop.

The flight between Chicago and State College typically takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes. The prices for this route can vary between $120 and $510 depending on the airline and time of booking.

There are several options for accommodation near State College. There are over 34 hotels available with prices starting at $50 per night. Some popular choices include The Nittany Lion Inn, The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, and The Hyatt Place State College.