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Saint Louis, MO, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $11: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Saint Louis, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Saint Louis 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.

$11 - Night trainBest price
425 kmDistance
3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Saint Louis 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$11-130
Recommended
Company
Lincoln Service
Train
Average Duration
5h  9m
Estimated price
$11-130
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 425 km
Duration: 3h 14m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$35-85
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  54m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$74-110
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$90-488
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Traveling From Saint Louis to Chicago

Traveling from Saint Louis to Chicago offers a shift from the laid-back charm of riverfront attractions to the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis, each city boasting its own distinct character and experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago’s neighborhoods each offer a distinct vibe and attractions to explore.

Wicker Park
• Trendy shops and cafes abound.
• Vibrant nightlife with live music spots.
Lincoln Park
• Home to the beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Scenic lakefront trails and parks.
The Loop
• Center of business and culture.
• Iconic architecture and a rich history.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visit to Chicago’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Art Institute of Chicago
Weekdays are ideal, especially during opening hours, to avoid crowding.
Navy Pier
Go on weekdays during the off-peak season for a more relaxed visit.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a diverse climate with hot summers and cold winters, making each season offer a different flavor to your visit. Spring and fall often provide the most pleasant weather, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly Chicago experience, dive into a deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, where the rich layers of cheese and tangy tomato sauce create a hearty contrast to the barbecue flavors common in Saint Louis. The lively atmosphere and the local use of fresh ingredients elevate the dining journey, showcasing a different side of American cuisine.

Saint Louis - Chicago operators

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

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

Train from St. Louis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$11-130
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 39m
Estimated price
$35-85
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$130-112
Website
southwest.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$130-113
Website
aa.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$130-112
Website
gojetairlines.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$114-115
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) via Quincy

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$116-117

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

Traveling between Saint Louis 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.

🚗 Hit the road on a scenic journey from St. Louis to Chicago, covering a distance of 298 miles in under 5 hours of driving time. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $50 to $80 for a trip full of excitement and exploration between these two iconic Midwestern cities.
Average price
$50 - $80
Useful tips for car travellers
• Make sure to fuel up in preparation for your trip; gas stations like Mobil and Shell along I-55 typically have prices around $3.60 per gallon (about $0.95 per liter), but be aware that prices may vary.
• When approaching Chicago, familiarize yourself with the city’s parking regulations; expect to pay between $20 to $50 per day for parking in the downtown area, and be cautious about restricted zones in areas like the Loop and River North.
• Upon arrival in Chicago, use public transport or rideshares instead of driving in the busy downtown, as navigation can be tricky with one-way streets and frequent construction; consider visiting the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) website for routes and ticketing options.
🛤️ The train journey from St. Louis to Chicago takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and relaxed way to travel between these two vibrant cities. 💸 Ticket prices for the train from St. Louis to Chicago range from $11 to $130, providing options for different budgets and travel preferences. Enjoy the picturesque views and hassle-free ride on this route with Amtrak.
Departure Point
St. Louis station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Saint Louis to Chicago, you can expect onboard catering services provided by Amtrak. They offer a selection of snacks, meals, and beverages available for purchase from their Café Car. Don't miss their regional specialty meals, which may include options inspired by local Chicago cuisine.
• Amtrak offers multiple seating options on this route, including Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class features comfortable reclining seats with ample legroom, while Business Class provides even more spacious seating and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class (available on select trains) includes premium seating and a more upscale dining experience.
• There are multiple operators for this route, primarily Amtrak, which can be found at amtrak.com Another option is the Cardinal route, but it runs less frequently, so check schedules carefully. Useful links include Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) for public transport options in Chicago at transitchicago.com, and the Amtrak website for train schedules and updates.
🛫 Flying from St. Louis Airport to Chicago Midway Airport can be a quick and convenient journey with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes on Southwest Airlines. 🏙️ Once you arrive in Chicago, after the 3 hour and 14 minute flight, you'll be ready to explore the Windy City's iconic attractions, delicious food scene, and vibrant culture. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and St. Louis can vary, ranging anywhere from $90 to $488 depending on the airline, time of booking, and demand.
Departure Point
St. Louis Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Travel from Saint Louis to Chicago by bus is convenient and efficient. Greyhound USA operates a direct service departing from St Louis Bus Station and arriving at Chicago Bus Station, with a journey duration of approximately 6 hours and 39 minutes. 🚌 The cost of a bus ticket between Chicago and Saint Louis ranges from $35 to $85, providing an affordable travel option for those seeking a budget-friendly way to experience the journey between these two vibrant cities in the Midwest region of the United States.
Departure Point
St Louis Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your ticket online in advance with operators like Greyhound USA or FlixBus to secure the best prices, as rates can vary between $35 - $85 depending on demand.
• Upon arrival at the Chicago Bus Station, you can easily navigate using a CTA map to familiarize yourself with the public transit options available, including buses and trains that connect you to downtown Chicago and beyond; you can view schedules at the CTA website.
• While on the bus, be sure to bring snacks and entertainment, as the 6h 39m ride can feel long; local favorites for snacks include puppy chow or toasted ravioli to reflect St. Louis flavors before arriving in Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Saint Louis to Chicago.

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The distance between Saint Louis and Chicago is 424.9 km or 478.9 km by road. If you choose to travel by train, it takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes to reach Chicago from Saint Louis. Flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 9 minutes. Driving by car takes about 4 hours and 54 minutes, while a bus journey can take approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Saint Louis to Chicago is the night train, with prices ranging from $11 to $130. However, this option takes 5 hours and 9 minutes. If time is of the essence, the fastest option is to fly, with a travel time of 3 hours and 9 minutes. The cost for a flight ranges from $75 to $480.
The prices for a train journey from Saint Louis to Chicago can range from $11 to $130, depending on the class and type of ticket. Similarly, the prices for a bus trip from Chicago to Saint Louis can vary from $35 to $85, depending on the bus company and type of ticket purchased.
To get from Saint Louis to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance is approximately 479.6 km and it takes about 4 hours and 54 minutes. The cost of driving from Saint Louis to Chicago can vary but typically ranges between $50 and $80 for fuel expenses.
To travel from Saint Louis to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $11 and $130. An alternative option is to take a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes and costs $35 to $85. Lastly, flying is another possibility, with a flight duration of 3 hours and 9 minutes and costing between $75 and $480.
Yes, there is a direct link between Saint Louis and Chicago by both train and bus. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes, with four departures daily. The bus journey takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes, with one departure per day.
The flight between Saint Louis and Chicago typically takes about 1 hour. However, it's important to note that flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and the specific flight route. As for the cost, prices for flights between Chicago and Saint Louis can range from $80 to $478, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, providing a range of affordable options for visitors.