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New York, NY, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $40: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
New York, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from New York 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.

$40 by trainBest price
1150.5 kmDistance
4h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New York 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
4h  43m
Estimated price
$100-665
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
19h  32m
Estimated price
$40-290
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1150.5 km
Duration: 4h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$46-812
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$85-515
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
21h 
Estimated price
$86-231
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$95-510
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$100-436
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  10m
Estimated price
$119-170
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  56m
Estimated price
$132-408
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
13h  6m
Estimated price
$140-210
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From New York to Chicago

Traveling from New York to Chicago offers a fascinating contrast between New York's bustling streets and Chicago's laid-back charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods are vibrant and diverse, each with its own charm.

Wicker Park
• Trendy hub for artists and young professionals.
• Unique boutiques and local coffee shops abound.
Lincoln Park
• Scenic parks and Lake Michigan access.
• Rich in culture with museums and theaters.
The Loop
• Heart of the city with iconic skyscrapers.
• Home to world-class dining and shopping.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits to Chicago's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and fewer tourists.
Art Institute of Chicago
Afternoons on Thursdays are ideal, with extended hours and fewer visitors.
Navy Pier
Weekday visits in early spring or late fall help avoid large crowds.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, featuring cold winters and warm summers, making late spring and early fall the best times to visit. Weather conditions can shape your travel plans, with winter snow creating a picturesque scene while summer heat invites outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Chicago

Try the deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a beloved local favorite that offers a hearty, gooey twist on traditional pizza, setting it apart from New York's thin-crust style. The communal atmosphere of this iconic eatery, combined with the rich flavors and fresh, local ingredients, creates a distinctly Chicago dining experience.

New York - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago Midway

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$110-600
Website
delta.com

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
$120-380

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago Midway via Detroit

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$150-490
Website
united.com

Plane from Newark to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$110-600
Website
aa.com

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
$95-490
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from New York Penn Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
19h 32m
Estimated price
$40-290
Contact phone
877.690.5114
Website
mta.info

Train from Grand Central Terminal to White Plains

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$9-21
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Baltimore Downtown Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$21-60

Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
16h 40m
Estimated price
$80-170
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
$30-80
Contact phone
+1 917.288.6888
Website
skyhorsebus.com

Bus from New York, NY to Columbus, OH

Average Duration
6h 43m
Estimated price
$88-90
Contact phone
1-800-343-9999
Website
peterpanbus.com

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Baltimore Downtown Bus Terminal

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$5-65

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

Traveling between New York 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 an exciting road trip from New York City to Chicago, covering a distance of 1277. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $140 to $210 for the road trip from New York to Chicago by car. ⏰ Set aside around 13 hours and 6 minutes for the drive from New York to Chicago, allowing for ample time to make pit stops, explore charming towns, and create unforgettable memories on this cross-country journey.
Average price
$140 - $210
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from New York to Chicago with Amtrak services departing once daily from New York Penn Station and arriving at Chicago Union Station. The leisurely ride lasts approximately 19 hours and 32 minutes. 🌆 Enjoy the comfort and amenities of the train as you travel the 1543.4 km distance between these iconic cities. With a single transfer, you can sit back and relax as you watch the landscapes change from bustling metropolis to serene countryside on your way to the Windy City. 🎫 Ticket prices for this memorable trip range from $40 to $290, offering an affordable and convenient way to experience the charm of train travel from the East Coast to the Midwest.
Departure Point
New York Penn Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for the New York to Chicago route, specifically the Cardinal or Lake Shore Limited. Onboard, you can enjoy a dining car that offers a menu of hot meals, snacks, and beverages. Reservations for dining are recommended, especially during busy travel times, and there’s also light snack service available in coach seating.
• Seating Options: On Amtrak, you have three seating options available: Coach (Economy Class), Business Class, and First Class/Sleeper cars. Coach seats provide ample legroom with reclining abilities; Business Class offers wider seats and complimentary refreshments; and First Class provides private accommodations with access to exclusive lounge areas and sleeper amenities, including bedding for overnight trips.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Chicago Union Station, be sure to check the station layout to easily access amenities. The station offers luggage storage through a private service, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. It also has restrooms but does not provide shower facilities. Familiarize yourself with the station’s layout through its map available at Union Station’s website for easier navigation.
• Fastest Way to City Center: The fastest way to travel from Chicago Union Station to the city center is via the Blue Line 'L' train. Board the train right outside the station; it runs frequently and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the Clark/Lake stop, which is a central downtown location. Tickets can be purchased at the station or through the CTA's website.
• Multiple Operators: For your train trip from New York to Chicago, Amtrak is the main operator. You can find schedules and fare information on their website: amtrak.com The route may also have options provided by Metra for local travel, although Metra does not operate direct long-distance routes like Amtrak.
🛫 Flying from New York's La Guardia Airport to Chicago's Midway Airport can be efficient and quick, with a direct flight lasting approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines provide options for this route. 🛄 Traveling by plane from New York to Chicago offers a convenient way to reach the Windy City in approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and New York can range from $100 to $665, making it crucial to compare different airlines and booking options for the best deal on this popular route.
Departure Point
New York La Guardia Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book with Southwest Airlines for the flexibility of free checked bags, which can be a great money-saver on this route, particularly if you're planning to bring back souvenirs from Chicago.
• Upon arrival at Chicago Midway Airport, be prepared for possible long lines at the curbside taxi pick-up due to its popularity; consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft for quicker access into the city.
• Expect taxi fares from Chicago Midway Airport to the city center to average around $30-$40, but keep in mind that traffic can significantly affect this price during peak hours; for more economical options, check local public transport schedules at Chicago Transit Authority.
🚌 Planning a trip from New York to Chicago by bus involves a journey of approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes with a transfer in Columbus, OH. The service is operated by Greyhound USA. 🌆 The distance of the route is approximately 1557.8 km with varying ticket prices between $119 - $170.
Departure Point
Port Authority Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New York to Chicago.

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The distance between New York and Chicago is approximately 1150.7 km by air. By train, it takes around 19 hours and 32 minutes to reach Chicago from New York. If you choose to fly, taking a train to Philadelphia first, it will take about 5 hours and 33 minutes. Additionally, driving by car from Chicago to New York takes approximately 13 hours and 6 minutes, while taking a bus from New York to Chicago takes around 15 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from New York to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $40 to $290. Although it takes the longest at 19 hours and 32 minutes, it offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time is a priority, the fastest way to reach Chicago is by flying, which takes 4 hours and 31 minutes with prices ranging from $90 to $700.
The prices for train travel between New York and Chicago range from $40 to $290. On the other hand, the prices for bus travel between the two cities can vary from $14 to $141.
To reach Chicago from New York without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The journey covers a distance of approximately 1277.8 km and can take around 13 hours and 6 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Prices for a car rental or fuel costs can range from $140 to $210.
The best way to travel from New York to Chicago without a car is by taking a bus via Ithaca. This option takes approximately 15 hours and 15 minutes and fares range from $14 to $150. Another option is to fly directly, which takes around 4 hours and 31 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $90 to $700. Lastly, you can also consider taking a train, which takes longer at 19 hours and 32 minutes but can be more affordable, with fares costing between $40 to $290.
Yes, there is a direct train link between New York and Chicago. The Amtrak train departs from New York Penn Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station, with a travel time of approximately 19 hours and 32 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but the journey can be made by taking a bus from New York to Ithaca and then transferring to another bus to Chicago with a total travel time of around 15 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between New York and Chicago typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can range anywhere from $90 to $665.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, travelers have plenty of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.

Trips from New York