Omaha, NE, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $85: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Omaha to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$85 by busBest price
698 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Omaha 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.
Omaha - Chicago operators
Explore transport companies operating between Omaha and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Omaha (OMA) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$1282-1283Website
united.com
Plane from Omaha (OMA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
1h 43mEstimated price
$130-1284Website
aa.com
Plane from Omaha (OMA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
1h 41mEstimated price
$130-1284Website
delta.com
Plane from Omaha (OMA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
4h 13mEstimated price
$1285-1286Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618Website
burlingtontrailways.com
Bus from Omaha, Ne to Chicago, Il
Average Duration
9h 50mEstimated price
$85-170Bus from Omaha, Ne to Burlington, Ia
Average Duration
2h 30mEstimated price
$12870-85Bus from Burlington, Ia to Galesburg, Il
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$851-5906Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Galesburg Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
2h 56mEstimated price
$1287-1288Omaha to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Omaha 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 Omaha to Chicago covering a distance of 471 miles. Enjoy the journey through the heartland of America and witness the changing landscapes along the way.
💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $85 to $130 for the road trip from Omaha to Chicago by car. Plan your travel expenses accordingly and make the most of your journey without breaking the bank.
🏙️ Arrive in Chicago after approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, delicious food, and iconic landmarks of the Windy City.
Average price
$85 - $130
🚆 Experience a scenic journey from Omaha to Chicago aboard the California Zephyr train. This route covers a distance of 500 miles and takes approximately 9 hours and 36 minutes to reach your destination.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from Omaha to Chicago, Amtrak offers a variety of catering services. In their Superliner coaches, you can enjoy a Café Car that serves light meals, snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks. Be sure to check the daily menu, as offerings may vary. Additionally, if you’re in First Class or Business Class, you may receive complimentary meals served at your seat.
• Seating Options: Amtrak's Cardinal service provides multiple seating options for your journey. You can choose from Coach Class, which is the most economical and offers standard reclining seats, or opt for Business Class, which provides more spacious seats and additional amenities. First-Class seating is also available on select routes for a premium experience, featuring wider seats and complimentary meals. Reserve early for the best selection of seats.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Chicago Union Station, expect a bustling environment with many amenities. You can easily navigate the station, which features clear signage. If you need to leave luggage, Amtrak offers a luggage storage service located near the main entrance, though it's advisable to confirm availability. Restrooms are available, but be aware that there are no showers at the station.
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get to downtown Chicago from Union Station, the quickest option is to take the 'Blue Line' of the Chicago Transit Authority's 'L' train toward O'Hare. This route takes about 25-30 minutes to reach the Loop area. You can also consider taking bus #60, which provides direct service to several key areas downtown.
• Multiple Operators: For this route, Amtrak is the primary provider. You can find more details and book tickets via their website: Amtrak. However, Greyhound also offers bus services between Omaha and Chicago if you prefer alternative travel options: Greyhound.
• Useful Links: For local transport schedules in Chicago, visit the Chicago Transit Authority’s website at CTA. If you're looking for a station map of Union Station, access it here: Union Station Map.
🛫 Flying from Omaha to Chicago is quick and convenient with a direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Southwest Airlines provides flights from Omaha Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, making it easy to reach your destination.
🌆 Once you land in Chicago, you'll have plenty of time to explore as the total duration of the flight from Omaha to Chicago is 3 hours and 12 minutes. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, the vibrant city of Chicago has something for everyone to enjoy.
💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for flights between Chicago and Omaha can range from $128 to $590. With a range of options and airlines to choose from, you can find a flight that fits your budget for your trip to the Windy City.
Departure Point
Omaha Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Departing from Omaha and arriving in Chicago the bus service by Burlington Trailways offers a direct route taking approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes. This daily service operates every day, providing a convenient travel option between the two cities.
🛣️ The journey covers a distance of 952 miles, with a total travel time of 23 hours and 10 minutes including transfers. Passengers will make stops in Sioux Falls and Minneapolis before reaching their final destination in Chicago. Each leg of the trip is serviced by Jefferson Lines and Greyhound, ensuring a smooth travel experience.
💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Chicago and Omaha range from $85 to $170, offering an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore the Midwest region. With comfortable seating and reliable service providers, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route from Nebraska to Illinois by bus.
Departure Point
Omaha, Ne station
Arrival Point
Chicago, Il station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Burlington Trailways station in Omaha at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process; it's located at 320 South 72nd Street, Omaha, NE 68114, and you can check schedules at burlingtontrailways.com
• During the approximately 9h 50m journey, bring snacks and a refillable water bottle since there are no scheduled breaks on this direct route; a good option for snacks can be found at local convenience stores near the station before departure.
• Once you arrive at the Chicago station, expect a busy environment at the Chicago Union Station; familiarize yourself with the layout of the station, available at unionstation.org and consider using public transport options like Metra or CTA to reach your final destination in the city.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Omaha to Chicago.
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The distance between Omaha and Chicago is approximately 698.5 km by road. The road distance is slightly longer, at 757.2 km. The typical travel times vary by mode of transportation. By taking a bus and then a train, it takes around 11 hours and 11 minutes. If you prefer to fly, the typical travel time is around 3 hours and 12 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, while a bus journey can take around 9 hours and 50 minutes.
For a cost-effective option, driving is the cheapest way to travel from Omaha to Chicago, with an estimated cost of $85-$130. However, it is important to consider that driving takes approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option with a travel time of 3 hours and 12 minutes, but prices can range from $100 to $600.
The prices for a bus ticket between Omaha and Chicago can range from $85 to $170.
To travel from Omaha to Chicago without public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 758.0 km. It usually takes around 7 hours and 45 minutes to reach Chicago by car. The cost of this journey by car can range between $85 to $130, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The most convenient mode of transportation from Omaha to Chicago without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes, and ticket prices range from $85 to $170.
Yes, there is a direct link between Omaha and Chicago. Burlington Trailways operates a bus service that departs once daily from Omaha and arrives in Chicago with a travel time of approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes.
The flight between Omaha and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, ranging from $101 to $585.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $58 per night, allowing travelers to find an option that fits their needs and budget.