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Dallas, TX, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $40: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Dallas, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Dallas 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
1301 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dallas 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
2h  52m
Estimated price
$179-875
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
22h  4m
Estimated price
$40-300
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1301 km
Duration: 2h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$44-268
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$58-318
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
23h  20m
Estimated price
$119-259
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
15h  25m
Estimated price
$160-250
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
19h  33m
Estimated price
$190-466
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$219-825
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Traveling From Dallas to Chicago

The journey from Dallas to Chicago offers a fascinating shift from the warm Southern charm of Texas to the vibrant urban pulse of the Windy City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and cultures that excite visitors.

Wicker Park
• Known for its eclectic arts scene.
• Home to trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.
Lincoln Park
• Features beautiful parks and nature areas.
• Offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Chinatown
• Rich in cultural festivals and events.
• Offers authentic Asian cuisine and markets.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Chicago experience.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Early weekday mornings provide quieter galleries, perfect for art enthusiasts.
Navy Pier
Visit on weekdays during lunch hours for fewer crowds and easy access.
Millennium Park
Early mornings or late afternoons offer peaceful strolls and beautiful lighting.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a diverse climate with hot summers and cold winters, making layering essential for comfort. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, ideal for exploring the city's vibrant outdoor attractions.

Chicago Dining: A Must-Try Experience

Indulge in a deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, where the rich, buttery crust and savory layers of cheese and toppings create a hearty contrast to the Texan barbecue you may be accustomed to. This iconic dish reflects Chicago’s love for bold flavors and communal dining, offering a cozy atmosphere that invites you to savor each bite.

Dallas - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Dallas 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 Dallas (DAL) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$160-430

Plane from Dallas (DAL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$120-320

Plane from Dallas (DAL) to Chicago Midway (MDW) via St. Louis

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$160-430

Plane from Dallas (DAL) to Chicago Midway (MDW) via Kansas City

Average Duration
3h 57m
Estimated price
$160-430

Plane from Dallas (DAL) to Chicago Midway (MDW) via Omaha

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$160-430
Website
aa.com

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
$140-410

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) via St. Louis

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$140-410
Website
united.com

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$95-400
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$85-550

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$40-260
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Dallas/Ft.Worth (DFW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$65-380
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Dallas to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
22h 4m
Estimated price
$40-300
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from Dallas Jefferson to Chicago

Average Duration
18h 12m
Estimated price
$170-440
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
16h 5m
Estimated price
$85-180

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$30-85

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to Chicago

Average Duration
19h 33m
Estimated price
$190-466

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station via St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
23h 20m
Estimated price
$119-259

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

Traveling between Dallas 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 unforgettable road trip from Dallas to Chicago, spanning a distance of 1496.7 km. 💸 Prices for the road trip from Dallas to Chicago by car typically range between $160 to $250, providing budget-friendly options for travelers. 🌆 Arrive in vibrant Chicago after approximately 15 hours and 25 minutes of driving, where you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history, iconic architecture, and renowned culinary scene.
Average price
$160 - $250
🚂 Traveling from Dallas to Chicago by train is a scenic journey that takes approximately 22 hours and 4 minutes. The direct train service operated by Amtrak runs once daily, providing a comfortable and leisurely way to reach your destination. 🌆 As you embark on this train adventure, you'll cover a distance of 1590.0 km, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way. 💰Ticket prices for this train trip from Dallas to Chicago typically range from $40 to $300, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable option for those looking to explore the route at a relaxed pace.
Departure Point
Dallas station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Amtrak Texas Eagle, which operates this route, include café-style dining with options for snacks, sandwiches, and beverages available for purchase. There is also a dining car offering hot meals during certain times of the day, where you can make reservations for lunch or dinner.
• For seating options, Amtrak provides various classes, including Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and Sleeper Class. Coach Class offers comfortable reclining seats with adjustable footrests, while Business Class features larger seats and more legroom. Sleeper Class includes private rooms with amenities, ideal for overnight trips.
• When you arrive at Union Station in Chicago, be prepared to navigate large crowds. You can store your luggage at the Amtrak Baggage Claim for a fee, freeing you to explore the city. The station also has modern restrooms, but shower facilities are not available on-site.
🛫 Traveling from Dallas to Chicago by plane is a convenient and efficient option. The quickest direct flight from Dallas Airport to Chicago Midway Airport takes just 2 hours and 5 minutes with Southwest Airlines. 🌆 Upon arrival in Chicago, you can explore the city's iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious food scene. The flight from Dallas to Chicago typically lasts 2 hours and 52 minutes, allowing for a swift journey between these vibrant cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and Dallas can vary, ranging from $179 to $875.
Departure Point
Dallas Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
You'll need to make a transfer in St Louis, making the journey approximately 23 hours and 20 minutes. Greyhound USA operates the bus services from Dallas to Chicago. 🛣️ Route options vary in both duration and transfers. One of the routes takes about 19 hours and 33 minutes, covering a distance of 1882.9 km with 2 transfers along the way. 💸 Prices for the bus between Chicago and Dallas can range from $190 to $466.
Departure Point
Dallas Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan for a long travel day by packing snacks and entertainment, as your journey from Dallas to Chicago involves multiple transfers and approximately 23 hours on the bus, primarily with Greyhound USA; you can find schedules at greyhound.com
• When transferring at Nashville, ensure you know your next boarding location, as the Nashville bus station is busy and you will likely need to switch from Greyhound to either a Barons Bus or another Greyhound service to continue your journey to Chicago; check bus schedules and station maps ahead of time to avoid any confusion.
• Upon arrival at the Chicago Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the area by reviewing nearby public transit options like the CTA, as it’s conveniently located close to various train and bus services, making your continuation into the city seamless; visit transitchicago.com for more details on navigating public transportation in Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dallas to Chicago.

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The distance between Dallas and Chicago is approximately 1302.0 km. By train, it takes around 22 hours and 4 minutes to reach Chicago from Dallas. If you prefer flying, the travel time is significantly shorter, taking about 4 hours and 11 minutes. Driving by car can take around 15 hours and 25 minutes, while bus travel takes approximately 19 hours and 33 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Dallas to Chicago is to fly. It takes around 4 hours and 11 minutes and can cost between $35 and $900, depending on the airline and time of booking. Alternatively, taking a bus or a train can take significantly longer, ranging from 15 hours and 25 minutes by car to 22 hours and 4 minutes by train.
The prices of a train ticket between Dallas and Chicago can range from $40 to $300, depending on the class and type of train service chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and Dallas may vary from $190 to $466, depending on the bus company and the timing of the trip.
To travel from Dallas to Chicago without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1496.7 km, and it takes around 15 hours and 25 minutes to complete the journey. You can expect to spend around $160 to $250 for fuel and tolls.
If you prefer not to drive, there are a few options for traveling from Dallas to Chicago. The quickest and most convenient option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 11 minutes and costs between $180 and $900. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 19 hours and 33 minutes and costs between $190 and $470. If you want a more scenic journey, you could also take a train, which takes around 22 hours and 4 minutes and costs between $40 and $300.
Yes, there is a direct link between Dallas and Chicago. You can take a train operated by Amtrak, which departs from Dallas station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and operates daily. Alternatively, you can take a bus operated by Greyhound USA, which departs from Dallas Bus Station and arrives at Chicago Bus Station. The bus journey, including transfers, takes approximately 23 hours and 45 minutes.
The flight between Dallas and Chicago typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes. The prices for flights can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel. On average, the cost of a flight between Chicago and Dallas can range from $184 to $861.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Chicago, with over 1116 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $58 per night, so there are options available to suit different budgets.