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Bloomington, IL, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $5: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bloomington, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Bloomington 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.

$5 by trainBest price
193 kmDistance
2h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bloomington 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  35m
Estimated price
$5-85
Recommended
route map
Distance: 193 km
Duration: 2h 17m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  26m
Estimated price
$5-85
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$23-65
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$24-35
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$50-51
Company
Peoria Charter Coach Company
Bus
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$52-55
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$183-376
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$237-335

Traveling From Bloomington to Chicago

The journey from Bloomington to Chicago offers a fascinating shift from the small-town charm of Bloomington to the vibrant, bustling energy of Chicago.

Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences worth exploring.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Beautiful parks and waterfront views.
Wicker Park
• Known for trendy boutiques and art galleries.
• Vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options.
Hyde Park
• Site of the University of Chicago.
• Rich in cultural attractions and historic architecture.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Chicago's top spots.

Millennium Park
Early morning or weekdays offer a quieter experience to enjoy the artwork.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit on Thursday evenings for fewer crowds and extended hours.
Navy Pier
Try visiting during the off-peak seasons for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers, making layers essential for year-round visits. The best times to explore the city are in spring and fall when temperatures are mild, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Experience Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where the rich, cheesy layers contrast with Bloomington's more traditional fare. The lively atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients, makes dining in Chicago a vibrant adventure for your taste buds.

Bloomington - Chicago operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Bloomington-Normal to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$5-85
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Bloomington to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$23-65
Contact phone
+1 800-448-0572
Website
https://peoriacharter.com

Bus from Watterson Towers to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
$52-55
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

all-pages.transport_night train from Bloomington-Normal to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$5-85
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Bloomington to Chicago

Average Duration
2h 17m
Estimated price
$24-35
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Bloomington Airport (BMI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$54-55
Website
http://united.com

Plane from Decatur (DEC) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$58-59
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 309-827-9707

Taxi from Bloomington to Decatur

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$857-8560
Contact phone
+1 309-828-0123
Website
http://ciryde.com

Taxi from Bloomington to Decatur

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$857-8560

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

Traveling between Bloomington 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.

🚗 The road trip from Bloomington to Chicago spans 134 miles of scenic Midwestern landscape. With an estimated drive time of 2 hours and 17 minutes, you can enjoy a smooth journey along the highways. 💰 Traveling by car offers flexible pricing options, ranging from $24 to $35 for the Bloomington to Chicago route. You can choose the best option that suits your budget and travel preferences, ensuring a cost-effective and convenient trip.
Average price
$24 - $35
🚆 Travel from Bloomington to Chicago by train is convenient and efficient. Departing from Bloomington-Normal station, the journey to Chicago Union Station takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes with trains running four times a day, every day. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Bloomington to Chicago train vary from $5 to $85, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Chicago from the charming town of Bloomington.
Departure Point
Bloomington-Normal station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
🛫 Flying from Bloomington to Chicago is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes with American Airlines. 🏙 Upon arrival at Chicago O'Hare Airport, travelers can expect to reach the bustling city from Bloomington in just 3 hours and 30 minutes by plane. 💸 The cost of a flight between Bloomington and Chicago can range from $183 to $376, making it a relatively affordable and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Bloomington Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 The trip from Bloomington to Chicago by bus is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $52 to $55, traveling by bus from Bloomington to Chicago is a budget-friendly choice for those looking to explore the Windy City without the hassle of driving.
Departure Point
Bloomington station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure you arrive at Bloomington Station at least 30 minutes before your bus departs to account for any last-minute ticketing or boarding issues, as the Greyhound bus operates only once daily.
• Bring a snack or sandwich for the bus ride, as the journey from Bloomington to Chicago takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes, and food options on the bus may be limited. Consider stopping by a local café like Coffee Hound or Lettuce Begin before boarding.
• When you arrive at Chicago Bus Station, be prepared for bustling crowds; use the station’s clear signage to navigate to the exit, and consider using the nearby CTA services for a quick transfer to downtown Chicago; the station is well-connected to the Red Line, which takes you to various city hotspots.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bloomington to Chicago.

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The distance between Bloomington and Chicago is 120 miles by road. By train, it takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to reach Chicago from Bloomington. If you opt to take a taxi to Decatur and then fly, the travel time will be around 3 hours and 13 minutes. Alternatively, by plane, the journey from Bloomington to Chicago takes approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes. Finally, if you are driving from Chicago to Bloomington, it will take around 2 hours and 17 minutes, while a bus journey can take approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Bloomington to Chicago is by train. It costs $5-$85 and takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. Alternatively, driving is the quickest option, taking 2 hours and 17 minutes and costing $24-$35. These options provide a balance between affordability and convenience for travelers making this journey.
The prices for a train from Bloomington to Chicago range from $5 to $85, depending on factors such as the time of booking and the type of ticket. On the other hand, the prices for a bus from Chicago to Bloomington typically range from $52 to $55. These prices can vary depending on the bus company and the time of travel. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to get the best deal for your journey.
To get from Bloomington to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 134 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Chicago by car. The estimated cost of the trip by car ranges from $24 to $35, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Bloomington to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take the train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes and costs $5-$85. Another option is to take the bus via Terminal 2 O'Hare Intl Airport, which takes around 4 hours and 18 minutes and costs $52-$55. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes and costs $180-$380.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Bloomington and Chicago. The Amtrak train departs four times a day from Bloomington-Normal and arrives at Chicago Union Station, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. There is also a direct bus service operated by Greyhound USA, which departs once daily from Bloomington and arrives at Chicago Bus Station, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between Bloomington and Chicago.
The flight between Bloomington and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $183 and $376, depending on the airline and time of booking. It's important to note that these are average prices and can fluctuate based on factors such as demand and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in the area start at $58 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, you will find a wide range of choices to make your stay in Chicago comfortable and enjoyable.

Trips from Bloomington

Trips to Chicago