1map logoGo to main page

Council Bluffs, IA, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $31: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Council Bluffs, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Council Bluffs 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.

$31 by trainBest price
692 kmDistance
3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Council Bluffs 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
Southwest Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$103-556
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
9h  43m
Estimated price
$31-193
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 692 km
Duration: 3h

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$80-1030
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
9h  58m
Estimated price
$97-184
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  28m
Estimated price
$98-346
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Council Bluffs to Chicago

The journey from Council Bluffs to Chicago offers a transition from a charming Midwestern town to a bustling urban center, providing travelers with a blend of serene landscapes and vibrant city life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct cultural experiences.

Wicker Park
• Known for its vibrant arts scene.
• Features trendy shops and eateries.
Lincoln Park
• Home to beautiful parks and gardens.
• Offers a mix of nightlife and family activities.
The Loop
• The city's central business and cultural hub.
• Hosts iconic landmarks and theaters.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Chicago by planning your visits wisely.

Millennium Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy the art and gardens without crowds.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Afternoons on Thursdays tend to be quieter, ideal for a relaxed experience.
Navy Pier
Early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays offer a peaceful atmosphere.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, featuring cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the best times to visit for mild temperatures. Weather conditions can influence your travel plans, so be prepared for diverse experiences—from snowy excursions to enjoying outdoor festivals.

Dining Recommendation

Don’t miss trying Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where layers of gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce create a hearty experience that contrasts with the simpler fare often found in Council Bluffs. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients truly highlight Chicago's vibrant culinary scene.

Council Bluffs - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Council Bluffs 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 Omaha (OMA) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$103-556

Plane from Omaha (OMA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
$1030-5563
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Omaha Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
9h 36m
Estimated price
$1038-1039
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Omaha, Ne to Chicago, Il

Average Duration
Estimated price
$97-184
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Council Bluffs to Chicago

Average Duration
7h 39m
Estimated price
$80-1030

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

Traveling between Council Bluffs 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 adventurous road trip from Council Bluffs to the vibrant city of Chicago. Covering a distance of 464 miles, the journey promises scenic views and exciting pit stops along the way. 💸 With car travel costs ranging from $80 to $130, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy a budget-friendly excursion to the Windy City. Take advantage of affordable gas prices and plan your route to maximize savings on the road. 🌆 Arrive in Chicago after approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes of driving, ready to explore the city's iconic skyline, world-class museums, and renowned dining scene. Your road trip from Council Bluffs to Chicago is sure to be an unforgettable experience filled with new discoveries and memorable moments.
Average price
$80 - $130
🚆 Hop on a relaxing train ride from Council Bluffs to Chicago lasting approximately 9 hours and 43 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the train journey between Council Bluffs and Chicago range from $31 to $193, providing travelers with budget-friendly and flexible options to suit their preferences.
🛫 Flying from Council Bluffs to Chicago via Omaha Airport to Chicago Midway Airport is a convenient choice with the quickest direct flight taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes thanks to Southwest Airlines. ✈️ The total travel time by plane from Council Bluffs to Chicago is around 3 hours, providing a relatively quick and efficient way to reach your destination. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Chicago and Council Bluffs can range from $103 to $556, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets for this popular route.
Departure Point
Omaha Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Planning a bus trip from Council Bluffs USA to Chicago USA takes approximately 9 hours and 58 minutes. Prices for this route range from $97 to $184. 🚌 Route 1 offers a journey lasting 1 day and 5 hours, covering a distance of 912 miles with 3 transfers. It includes stops in Kansas City, St. Louis, New York, and finally arriving at Chicago. 🚌 For those considering Route 2 or Route 3, expect a trip lasting nearly 24 hours with 2 transfers each, passing through cities like Sioux Falls, Minneapolis, and ultimately reaching Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Council Bluffs to Chicago.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Council Bluffs and Chicago is 430 miles or 464 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes approximately 9 hours and 43 minutes by train, 3 hours by plane, 7 hours and 39 minutes by car, and 9 hours and 58 minutes by bus to travel between these two cities. It's important to consider these options when planning your trip to ensure the most convenient and efficient travel experience.
The most cost-effective transportation option from Council Bluffs to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $30 to $200 for a journey that takes 9 hours and 43 minutes. However, if you prioritize time-efficiency, flying is the fastest method, taking only 3 hours and costing between $100 and $600. Considering both cost and time, the train provides a budget-friendly option, while flying offers the quickest route between the two cities.
The cost of traveling from Council Bluffs to Chicago can vary depending on the mode of transportation. For example, a train ticket typically ranges from $31 to $193, while a bus ticket can vary between $97 and $184. It is advisable to compare prices and book tickets in advance to secure the best deal for your journey between Council Bluffs and Chicago. Additionally, factors such as time of booking and availability may also influence the ticket prices.
You can travel from Council Bluffs to Chicago by driving your own vehicle. The road distance is 464 miles, with an estimated travel time of about 7 hours and 39 minutes. The cost of this journey typically ranges from $80 to $130 for gas and tolls. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop at scenic spots along the way and travel at your own pace.
To travel from Council Bluffs to Chicago without a car, the best options are by train or plane. Taking the train would cost between $30-$200 and take approximately 9 hours and 43 minutes, while flying would take only 3 hours and cost between $100-$600. Both train and bus options are available as well, with the bus costing between $95-$190 and taking around 9 hours and 58 minutes. It is recommended to check schedules and prices to choose the most convenient option for your journey.
The flight between Council Bluffs and Chicago typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight from Omaha Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $103 to $556, depending on the airline, booking time, and availability of seats. It is recommended to book in advance or search for deals to secure the best price for your flight between Council Bluffs and Chicago.
There are over 1576 hotels available in Chicago, with prices starting at $67 per night. Some popular areas to stay in Chicago include the Magnificent Mile, River North, and the Loop. You can find a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, providing convenient access to the city's attractions and amenities. It's recommended to book your stay in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips to Chicago