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Charleston, IL, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Charleston 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.

$30 - OtherBest price
270 kmDistance
2h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charleston 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
4h  10m
Estimated price
$39-133
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  12m
Estimated price
$30-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 270 km
Duration: 2h 54m

See more options

Company
Tornado Bus Company
Bus
Average Duration
4h  22m
Estimated price
$92-149
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$246-390
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  54m
Estimated price
$254-591
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$391-392
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Traveling From Charleston to Chicago

The journey from Charleston to Chicago offers an intriguing contrast between Charleston's charming Southern hospitality and rich history, and Chicago's vibrant urban energy and artistic flair.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Fantastic dining options along Armitage Avenue.
Wicker Park
• Known for its vibrant arts scene.
• Trendy shops and eateries on Milwaukee Avenue.
The Loop
• Center of Chicago's business and cultural activities.
• Iconic architecture and landmarks like Millennium Park.

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 for fewer crowds and a peaceful vibe.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Late afternoons during weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere and shorter lines.
Navy Pier
Arrive early in the day, especially on weekdays, to beat the midday rush.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a mix of humid continental and lakefront weather, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall offer mild conditions, making these seasons ideal for travelers looking to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city comfortably.

Dining Recommendation

You shouldn't miss trying deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, a Chicago staple that showcases the city's love for hearty, cheesy comfort food. Unlike the seafood-driven dishes in Charleston, this pizza offers a rich, bold flavor that reflects Chicago's urban vibe and local ingredients.

Charleston - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Charleston 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 Mattoon Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
3h 52m
Estimated price
$1330-1331
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
https://tornadobus.com

Bus from Phillips Gas Station - Arcola to Chicago

Average Duration
3h 4m
Estimated price
$1332-13305
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Champaign (CMI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1333-1334

Plane from Springfield (SPI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$1333-1334
Website
http://united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$1335-1336
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Charleston to Champaign

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$926-927

Other from Charleston to Decatur

Average Duration
3h 14m
Estimated price
$246-390

Other from Charleston to Chicago

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$30-50

Other from Charleston to Springfield

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$391-392

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

Traveling between Charleston 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 Charleston to Chicago covering a distance of 190 miles. Enjoy the journey through the charming Midwest landscapes and small towns along the way. 💵 Experience affordable travel with prices ranging from $30 to $50 for a car trip from Charleston to Chicago. Consider splitting the cost with friends or family for a more budget-friendly adventure. 🏙️ Arrive in the bustling city of Chicago after approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes of driving. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods, iconic architecture, and diverse culinary scene that await you in the Windy City.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Embark on an exciting train journey from Charleston to Chicago that takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views and relax as you travel towards the bustling city. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Charleston and Chicago can range from $39 to $133, offering options to fit various budgets. Plan ahead to secure the best fare for your desired travel dates.
🛫 Travelers flying from Charleston can conveniently take a quick direct flight from Champaign Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport, which lasts just 1 hour and 8 minutes.
Departure Point
Champaign Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Traveling from Charleston to Chicago by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 22 minutes, offering a convenient and affordable transportation option with ticket prices ranging from $92 to $149. 🚌 Route 1 provides a journey of 1 day and 3 hours from Charleston to Chicago covering a distance of 1,144 miles with 2 transfers along the way. The route involves stops at various bus stations managed by different transportation agencies for a seamless travel experience. 🚌 Alternatively, Route 2 presents a longer but equally scenic route from Charleston to Chicago spanning 1,069 miles and requiring 3 transfers before reaching the final destination. This option allows travelers to explore different regions while en route to the vibrant city of Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Charleston to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from Charleston to Chicago is by driving. The approximate cost of the drive is between $30 and $50, depending on the gas prices and the type of vehicle you use. The journey takes about 3 hours and 12 minutes, taking into account normal traffic conditions. However, it is recommended to plan your trip and check for any road closures or construction updates beforehand to avoid any delays.
The fastest way to travel from Charleston to Chicago is to take a taxi to the nearest airport and then fly to Chicago. This option typically takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes in total. However, please note that the cost for this method can range from $380 to $550, depending on the specific airline and time of travel. Keep in mind that flight availability may vary and it is always a good idea to check for any additional fees or restrictions before booking.
The distance from Charleston to Chicago is approximately 168 miles. If you travel by road, the distance is slightly longer at 189.7 miles. The driving distance may vary depending on the route you take.
The most convenient way to travel from Charleston to Chicago without a car is by taking a train. The Amtrak Cardinal and Amtrak Saluki both have routes that connect the two cities. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes and ticket prices range from $35 to $140, depending on the class and time of travel. Another alternative is to take a Greyhound bus, which also operates between Charleston and Chicago, with similar travel times and prices.
The journey from Charleston to Chicago typically takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes. This includes any transfers that may be required during the trip. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and check for any potential delays or construction along the route.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options available near Chicago. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something for every traveler. Some popular hotel chains in Chicago include Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 and can go up depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability for your stay.
Yes, you can drive from Charleston to Chicago. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 190 miles. It usually takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes to complete the journey by car. Keep in mind that this time may vary depending on traffic conditions and your preferred route.
American Airlines offers flights from Champaign Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. Other airlines that operate this route include United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Flights are available multiple times a day, and the average flight duration is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is advisable to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date schedule and pricing.
The fastest way to travel from Charleston to Chicago is by taking a direct flight from Champaign Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. This flight is operated by American Airlines and takes approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes. Other options for traveling by plane may require layovers and longer travel times.
The flight from Charleston to Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Champaign Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. However, it's important to consider additional time for check-in, security procedures, and any potential delays. Overall, flying is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
The cost of a bus ticket from Charleston to Chicago can range from $92 to $149. Different bus companies may have varying prices, so it is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, some bus operators may offer discounted fares for students, seniors, or military personnel, so it's worth checking if you qualify for any discounts before purchasing your ticket.
The cost of driving from Charleston to Chicago typically ranges from $30 to $50. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the journey. Keep in mind that other factors, such as tolls and parking fees, may also incur additional expenses. The drive usually takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.

Trips from Charleston

Trips to Chicago