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Minneapolis, MN, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $18: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Minneapolis, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Minneapolis 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.

$18 by trainBest price
573.53 kmDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Minneapolis 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  21m
Estimated price
$225-409
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
9h  16m
Estimated price
$18-162
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 573.53 km
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$40-269
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$45-110
Company
FlixBus and Amtrak Thruway
Bus
Average Duration
10h  3m
Estimated price
$47-123
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  26m
Estimated price
$49-339
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  43m
Estimated price
$70-110
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Traveling From Minneapolis to Chicago

This journey between Minneapolis and Chicago offers a blend of Minneapolis' serene lakes and the vibrant, bustling energy of Chicago's urban landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Lincoln Park
• Home to beautiful parks and the Lincoln Park Zoo
• Trendy shops and vibrant dining options abound
Wicker Park
• Known for its artsy vibe and indie music scene
• Cozy coffee shops and eclectic boutiques line the streets
The Loop
• Chicago's iconic skyline and bustling business district
• Cultural venues like the Art Institute and theatre district

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Chicago's top sites.

Millennium Park
Visit early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds at Cloud Gate.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Late afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere for browsing.
Navy Pier
Visit during weekdays in the early afternoon to enjoy attractions with less wait.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to explore the city. Your travel plans can shift dramatically based on the season, as weather influences everything from outdoor festivals to indoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation

Try the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, which showcases Chicago's famous take on pizza with its rich, cheesy layers and buttery crust. This dining experience contrasts sharply with Minneapolis' leaner flavor profiles, offering a hearty and indulgent taste of the city's culinary heritage.

Minneapolis - Chicago operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$30-310

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$25-270

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to South Bend (SBN)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$30-310
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$140-310
Website
united.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$130-460
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from St. Paul-Minneapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
$17-160
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Station to Chicago Train Station

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$45-110
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$24-85

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$23-40

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

Traveling between Minneapolis 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.

🚗 Embrace the open road on your journey from Minneapolis to Chicago, a picturesque drive spanning 661.4 km. 💵 Enjoy cost-effective travel options, with prices ranging from $70 to $110 for the scenic route from Minneapolis to Chicago by car. 🏙️ Arrive in the vibrant city of Chicago after a 6-hour and 43-minute drive, ready to explore its iconic skyline and cultural attractions.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Minneapolis to Chicago lasting approximately 9 hours and 16 minutes. Enjoy the comfort of the train as you watch the Midwest landscape pass by. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride from Minneapolis to Chicago range from $18 to $162, offering options for every budget.
🛫 Flying from Minneapolis to Chicago is a convenient and quick way to travel, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 25 minutes. 💸 The cost of flights between Minneapolis and Chicago can range from $225 to $409, providing travelers with a range of price options depending on their budget and timing preferences.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Traveling from Minneapolis to Chicago by bus is a convenient option, with a direct service operated by Greyhound USA. The journey typically takes around 8 hours and 40 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for this route can range from $45 to $110, offering an affordable way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Train Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be mindful of the daily bus schedule for the Greyhound service, as there is only one direct bus departing from the Minneapolis Bus Station to the Chicago Train Station; plan your arrival at the station accordingly to avoid missing it. Greyhound Schedule
• Pack snacks and a couple of water bottles for the 8h 40m journey, as bus stops along the way can be limited and traffic may extend travel time; convenience stores or food options are available at the Chicago Train Station if you want to refuel upon arrival.
• When you arrive at the Chicago Train Station, be prepared for quick access to public transportation options like the L train or city buses; check the Chicago Transit Authority for real-time information on routes and schedules to help you navigate the city seamlessly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Minneapolis to Chicago.

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The distance between Minneapolis and Chicago is 574.5 km road distance 661.4 km. Travel times vary by mode of transportation - taking a train from Minneapolis to Chicago typically takes 9 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, flying from Minneapolis to Chicago with a layover in South Bend and then driving can take 4 hours and 26 minutes. Flying directly from Minneapolis to Chicago is the quickest option, with a typical travel time of 3 hours and 21 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Minneapolis to Chicago is by train, with tickets costing between $18 and $170. However, this mode of transportation takes the longest at 9 hours and 16 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 21 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $220 to $410.
When traveling between Minneapolis and Chicago, the costs of a train ticket typically range from $18 to $162, providing passengers with a range of options based on their budget and preferences. On the other hand, taking the bus between the two cities can cost between $45 and $110, offering a more economical alternative for travelers looking to save on transportation expenses.
To travel from Minneapolis to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive the approximately 661.4 km distance which typically takes around 6 hours and 43 minutes. The cost of driving can vary between $70 to $110 in fuel expenses, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The most efficient way to travel from Minneapolis to Chicago without a car is by taking a flight, which typically takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes. However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can also consider taking a bus, which takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes. Another alternative is to take a train, which may take longer at 9 hours and 16 minutes, but offers a different travel experience.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Minneapolis and Chicago. The bus service operated by Greyhound USA departs from Minneapolis Bus Station and arrives at Chicago Train Station. The journey on this direct route takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and operates once daily, offering travelers a convenient option for traveling between the two cities without the need for transfers or additional modes of transportation.
The quickest direct flight from Minneapolis Airport to Chicago Midway Airport typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The prices for flights between Chicago and Minneapolis typically range from $225 to $409, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
You have a wide range of accommodation options near Chicago, with over 1557 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $79 per night, making it relatively affordable to find a place to stay.

Trips from Minneapolis