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Detroit, MI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $12: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Detroit, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Detroit to Chicago: 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 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Chicago 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  37m
Estimated price
$72-377
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$12-122
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 382.3 km
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$26-90
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
7h  25m
Estimated price
$56-125
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$68-277
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$94-263
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Traveling From Detroit to Chicago

The journey from Detroit to Chicago offers a striking contrast between the city's automotive history and vibrant art scene in Detroit, and the dynamic architecture and bustling urban energy of Chicago.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago’s neighborhoods each offer distinct character and charm worth exploring.

Wicker Park
• Trendy boutiques and vintage shops abound.
• Delicious dining options with diverse cuisines.
Lincoln Park
• Beautiful green spaces and parks are plentiful.
• Home to the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo.
South Loop
• Close proximity to Museum Campus attractions.
• Scenic views of Lake Michigan and downtown skyline.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Maximize your Chicago experience by visiting attractions at the right times.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience, perfect for enjoying art.
Millennium Park
Early mornings or weekdays provide a peaceful atmosphere to explore.
Navy Pier
Visit during weekdays in the off-peak season for fewer crowds.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons, making it a city of varying weather conditions. Spring and fall are often the best times to visit for mild temperatures, while winter's chill and summer's heat can greatly influence your travel plans.

Dining Recommendation in Chicago

One must-try dish is the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, where the thick crust, rich cheese, and savory tomato sauce create a hearty experience distinct from Detroit-style pizza. The atmosphere at this local favorite adds to the experience, as it blends a cozy vibe with the hustle and bustle of Chicago's vibrant food scene.

Detroit - Chicago operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$130-330
Website
delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$140-550

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$110-430
Website
aa.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$120-400

Plane from Flint (FNT) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$80-390
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Dearborn to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h 11m
Estimated price
$11-120
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$30-85

Bus from South Bend Transpo to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$10-45
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$26-90
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
hoosierride.com

Bus from Detroit, MI to South Street Station - South Bend

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$45-85
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$9-45

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

Traveling between Detroit and Chicago 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 Detroit to Chicago, covering a distance of 455.4 km. Enjoy the journey through the Midwestern landscape as you drive for about 4 hours and 40 minutes to reach your destination. 💵 Discover budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the drive from Detroit to Chicago by car.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚆 Traveling by train from Detroit to Chicago takes approximately 6 hours and 41 minutes, offering a scenic journey through the Midwest. 🎫 The price range for a train ticket between Detroit and Chicago varies from $12 to $122, providing options for budget-conscious travelers as well as those seeking more premium accommodations. 🗺️ Two possible routes exist for the Detroit to Chicago train journey, with travel times ranging from 5 hours and 6 minutes to 5 hours and 27 minutes, covering a distance of 444.2 km for either option.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary depending on the operator, with Amtrak providing a café car featuring a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. If you're traveling in First Class, you'll also enjoy complimentary meals served at your seat, along with free Wi-Fi access.
• On this route, Amtrak offers multiple seating options: Business Class (more spacious seating with complimentary snacks and beverages), First Class (even larger seats with premium dining), and Economy Class (standard seating with access to café services). Be sure to choose the class that best suits your comfort needs during the journey.
• Various operators run from Detroit to Chicago, including Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Indian Trails (indiantrails.com). Check their schedules for the best option suited to your travel time. For useful information, visit Chicago Transit Authority (transitchicago.com) for local transport schedules and maps.
🛫 Flying from Detroit to Chicago is a convenient option with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Delta and Southwest Airlines operate flights between Detroit Airport and Chicago Midway Airport. ✈️ The total travel time from Detroit to Chicago by plane is approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. This quick journey allows you to easily reach the vibrant city of Chicago from the Motor City. 💸 Flight prices for this route can range from $72 to $377, offering travelers a variety of options based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking a direct flight with Delta or Southwest Airlines, as both offer quick 1h 5m flights from Detroit to Chicago Midway, allowing you to maximize your time in the Windy City.
• Upon arrival at Chicago Midway Airport, be prepared for a potentially busy baggage claim; it's best to check real-time flight updates on the airport's website to track your luggage and navigate accordingly. Midway Airport Info
• Expect to pay approximately $30 to $40 for a taxi from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago, and consider using the Chicago Transit Authority's 'L' train, which offers a budget-friendly and efficient alternative for around $2.50. CTA Train Schedule
🚌 Traveling from Detroit to Chicago by bus is a convenient option with services departing four times a day and taking approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes. 🛣️ The route covers a distance of 500.5 km, and the bus journey provides a comfortable and cost-effective way to reach Chicago from Detroit. Greyhound USA operates the bus services for this route. 💰 Prices for the Detroit to Chicago bus tickets can vary from $26 to $90, offering travelers different options to fit their budget while enjoying the scenic journey between these two iconic American cities.
Departure Point
Detroit Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before you board your bus from Detroit to Chicago, check the departure times as Greyhound offers services four times a day; consider booking in advance via their official site at greyhound.com to secure the best fare and confirm timings.
• While on your journey, bring some snacks and drinks, as the bus trip lasting around 7 hours can leave you feeling peckish, and options may be limited on the bus; consider planning a stop at a well-rated restaurant near the Detroit Bus Station, like the Detroit Fish Market, for refreshments before departure.
• Upon arriving at the Chicago Bus Station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout and transport options; there are multiple public transit options, including 'L' trains and buses, accessible from the station; check schedules at transitchicago.com to plan your next move smoothly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Detroit to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from Detroit to Chicago is by taking a bus via Ann Arbor. This option typically costs between $28 and $140, depending on the bus company and the time of booking. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Detroit to Chicago is by plane. Flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport to Chicago O'Hare International Airport take approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes. The cost of flying ranges from $65 to $370 depending on the airline and time of booking.
The distance from Detroit to Chicago is approximately 383 kilometers. If you were to travel by road, the distance would be about 456 kilometers.
The best way to travel from Detroit to Chicago without a car is by train. Amtrak operates multiple daily routes between the two cities, with a journey time of around 6 hours and 40 minutes. Ticket prices can vary, but typically range from $11 to $130, depending on the class of service and how far in advance you book.
The travel time from Detroit to Chicago can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, if you prefer a more affordable option, taking a bus or driving would be a better choice. The bus journey typically takes around 4-5 hours, while driving can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
The cheapest way to travel from Detroit to Chicago is by bus, with prices ranging from $24 to $160 and a travel time of about 7 hours and 5 minutes. If you're looking for a faster option, flying is the best choice, taking approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes, with prices ranging from $65 to $370. Another alternative is taking the train, which costs between $11 and $130 and has a travel time of about 6 hours and 40 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Chicago. There are 1116+ hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $58 per night. Some popular areas to consider staying in Chicago include the downtown area, the Magnificent Mile, or near Millennium Park.
Yes, you can drive from Detroit to Chicago. The driving distance between the two cities is about 455 km. It typically takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Detroit and Chicago. The bus departs from Detroit Bus Station and arrives at Chicago Bus Station. The service operates five times a day, every day, and the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes.
To catch the bus from Detroit to Chicago you would need to go to the Detroit Bus Station. The bus services on this route are operated by Greyhound USA, a reputable bus company.
The Detroit to Chicago bus arrives at the Chicago Bus Station.
To get from Detroit Airport to downtown Chicago, you can take a direct flight which takes around 1 hour and costs $100-$200. Alternatively, you can take a combination of the Shuttle Bus and the Blue Line subway, which takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs around $20-$30. Another option is to rent a car from the airport, which takes around 4.5 hours to drive to Chicago and costs approximately $40-$60 in gas and tolls.
Delta and Southwest Airlines both offer flights between Detroit and Chicago. You can book a flight from Detroit Airport to Chicago Midway Airport with either of these airlines. Delta and Southwest Airlines provide multiple daily flights, giving travelers options for their preferred departure and arrival times.
The fastest way to travel from Detroit to Chicago is by taking a direct flight from Detroit Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines offer flights on this route. The prices of flights between Detroit and Chicago can range from $68 to $367.
The flight from Detroit to Chicago typically takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight.
A flight from Detroit to Chicago can cost anywhere between $68 and $367.
The cost of a train ticket from Detroit to Chicago ranges from $12 to $122, depending on the type of ticket and the time of booking.
The cost of a bus ticket from Detroit to Chicago can range from $24 to $160. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the time of year, day of the week, and the bus company chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus operators such as Greyhound or Megabus for the most up-to-date ticket prices and any available discounts or promotions.
The cost to drive from Detroit to Chicago can range from $50 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate takes into account the distance of approximately 280 miles between the two cities.