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La Crosse, WI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $11: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
La Crosse, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from La Crosse 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 by trainBest price
367 kmDistance
2h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from La Crosse 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
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$283-579
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$11-130
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 367 km
Duration: 2h 22m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Jefferson Lines / Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  48m
Estimated price
$54-112
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
8h  28m
Estimated price
$54-112

La Crosse - Chicago operators

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

Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from La Crosse (LSE) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$283-600
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from La Crosse to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h 8m
Estimated price
$11-130
Bus
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from La Crosse, WI to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$54-112
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
coachusa.com

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

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$2835-5792

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$5793-5792

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

Traveling between La Crosse 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 La Crosse to the bustling city of Chicago covering a distance of 284 miles. Enjoy the beautiful Midwest landscapes as you journey through charming towns and rolling hills. 💸 Plan your budget accordingly, as the cost of driving from La Crosse to Chicago ranges between $50 to $75. Factor in expenses such as gas, tolls, and any pit stops along the way to ensure a smooth and budget-friendly trip. 🌆 Arrive in Chicago after approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes of driving, ready to explore the city's iconic skyline, world-class museums, delicious food scene, and vibrant culture. Your road trip adventure promises a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚆 Traveling from La Crosse to Chicago by train is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train operated by Amtrak runs five times a day and takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes to reach Chicago Union Station. 💸 With ticket prices ranging from $11 to $130, taking the train from La Crosse to Chicago is not only affordable but also a great way to relax and enjoy the views along the way.
Departure Point
La Crosse station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from La Crosse to Chicago, you'll likely be traveling with Amtrak, which offers a catering service called 'Amtrak Cafe.' You can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals directly on board. Be sure to check the menu for local specialties, as some routes feature regional offerings that can enhance your travel experience.
• Amtrak provides various seating options for your journey. You can choose from Standard Coach, Business Class, and First Class. Standard Coach offers comfortable seating with ample legroom, while Business Class features wider seats and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. If you're looking for more privacy and space, consider opting for First Class, which includes meal service and a priority boarding experience.
• Along your route, Amtrak is the primary operator, and you can check schedules and book tickets on their website at amtrak.com Another operator on this route is Greyhound, which offers bus services as an alternative option, and their website is greyhound.com For local transport, you can find useful links at Chicago Transit Authority's site (transitchicago.com), which provides information on bus and train services in the city.
🛫 Flying from La Crosse to Chicago is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes. American Airlines operates flights between La Crosse Airport and Chicago O'Hare Airport. 🏙️ Upon arrival in Chicago, it takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes to reach the city from La Crosse by plane. This efficient travel option allows you to quickly transition from one vibrant city to another. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and La Crosse can range from $283 to $579, providing travelers with flexibility in choosing a fare that suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
La Crosse Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 The bus journey from La Crosse to Chicago involves a transfer in Madison, adding to the overall travel time of approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes. 🚌 Fares for the La Crosse to Chicago bus route range between $54 to $112, providing an affordable and convenient travel option for those looking to explore these two vibrant Midwestern cities.
Departure Point
La Crosse, WI station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from La Crosse to Chicago.

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The distance between La Crosse and Chicago is 366.9 km by road. The typical travel time by train is 5 hours and 8 minutes. If you prefer flying, it takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes to reach Chicago from La Crosse. Alternatively, driving by car would take around 4 hours and 39 minutes, while traveling by bus would take approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from La Crosse to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $11 to $130. Although the journey takes 5 hours and 8 minutes, it allows for a more budget-friendly option. Alternatively, if time is of the essence, flying is the most time-efficient choice, taking only 2 hours and 25 minutes, but with prices ranging from $280 to $700.
The prices for a train ticket between La Crosse and Chicago can range from $11 to $130, depending on factors such as the class of service and availability. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between the two cities can vary from $54 to $112.
To get from La Crosse to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 457.1 km which takes around 4 hours and 39 minutes. The cost of driving can vary from $50 to $75 depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from La Crosse to Chicago without a car is by train, which takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $11 and $130. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $280 and $700. If you prefer alternative transportation methods, you could also consider taking a bus, which takes approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $50 and $120.
Yes, there is a direct link between La Crosse and Chicago. There is a train service operated by Amtrak that departs from La Crosse station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but you can take a bus from La Crosse to Chicago with a transfer in Madison, which takes approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes.
The flight between La Crosse and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $283 to $679.
There are numerous accommodation options near Chicago with over 1116 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $58 per night, offering a range of choices to fit different budgets.