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Chicago, IL, USA to Tuscaloosa, AL, USA from $51: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Tuscaloosa: 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.

$51 by trainBest price
969 kmDistance
5h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Tuscaloosa 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
Bus
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$272-839
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
26h  38m
Estimated price
$51-408
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 969 km
Duration: 5h 25m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
17h  5m
Estimated price
$72-2720
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$178-595
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  54m
Estimated price
$212-369
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
19h  22m
Estimated price
$2721-2722
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
21h  46m
Estimated price
$2723-2724
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  47m
Estimated price
$2725-2726
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Tuscaloosa

Traveling from the bustling streets of Chicago to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Tuscaloosa offers a striking contrast between urban excitement and Southern hospitality.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and interests.

Downtown Tuscaloosa
• Vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants.
• Rich in culture with art galleries and local events.
University District
• Home to the University of Alabama and student activities.
• Lively atmosphere with cafes and shops catering to students.
Lake Tuscaloosa
• Scenic views and outdoor recreational activities available.
• Peaceful environment ideal for relaxation and picnics.

Best Times To Visit Tuscaloosa's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Tuscaloosa by visiting at optimal times.

The University of Alabama
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter campus and open access.
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Game day crowds can be overwhelming; attending a mid-week event is calmer.
Tuscaloosa Riverwalk
Early morning or late afternoon offers fewer visitors and beautiful scenery.

Tuscaloosa Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tuscaloosa enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a favorable destination for year-round visits. Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Tuscaloosa

For a genuine taste of Southern cuisine, try It Don’t Matter, where you can savor their famous fried catfish, a dish that highlights local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and distinct flavor profiles provide a charming contrast to Chicago’s diverse culinary landscape.

Chicago - Tuscaloosa operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Birmingham (BHM)

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$8394-8395

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Birmingham (BHM)

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$8396-8397

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Huntsville (HSV)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$8399-510
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Birmingham (BHM)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$511-512
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Birmingham (BHM)

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$2728-27270

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Huntsville (HSV)

Average Duration
1h 56m
Estimated price
$8398-513
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration
19h 42m
Estimated price
$2124-2125

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Tuscaloosa Amtrak Station

Average Duration
5h 56m
Estimated price
$3690-2725

Train from Chicago Union Station to Jackson

Average Duration
15h 7m
Estimated price
$516-511

Train from Jackson to Tuscaloosa Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$4088-2122
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Train Station to Nashville Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$8392-8399

Bus from Nashville Bus Station to Birmingham

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$4087-2727

Bus from Birmingham to Tuscaloosa Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$3694-2124

Bus from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration
14h 40m
Estimated price
$2122-4083
Contact phone
+1 (205) 719-0469
Website
groometransportation.com

Bus from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth to Embassy Suites by Hilton Tuscaloosa Alabama Downtown

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$2121-519
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Birmingham to Tuscaloosa Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$3695-4086
Other Show other routes
Website
palmlandlines.com

Other from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration
14h 40m
Estimated price
$2122-4083

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

Traveling between Chicago and Tuscaloosa 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.

Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking a direct flight with Southwest Airlines or Delta from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to save time; expect a flight duration of about 1 hour and 40 minutes and check for real-time updates on Southwest Airlines and Delta.
• Upon arrival at Birmingham Airport, be prepared for a roughly 1-hour drive to Tuscaloosa; to navigate transportation, taxis are available, and the fare to the city center is approximately $100, so consider pre-booking a ride with a local service like Uber or Lyft for convenience and potentially lower pricing.
• When arriving in Tuscaloosa, make sure to check out local dining options; you can find some great recommendations on Yelp or locals’ favorites and don’t forget to explore airport dining options before your flight—Southwest and Delta both offer some tasty snacks on board.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Tuscaloosa.

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The distance between Chicago and Tuscaloosa is approximately 602 miles by road. By train, it takes around 26 hours and 38 minutes to travel this distance. Alternatively, one can fly from Chicago Midway to Birmingham, which takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes, followed by a bus ride to Tuscaloosa. The total travel time by car from Chicago to Tuscaloosa is about 11 hours and 47 minutes, while taking a bus from Chicago to Tuscaloosa typically takes around 17 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Tuscaloosa is by bus and train, which can cost between $70 and $200 and takes approximately 21 hours and 46 minutes. This option may be ideal for budget-conscious travelers who are willing to spend more time on the journey. However, for those seeking a quicker and more time-efficient option, flying and taking a bus is the best choice, with an average cost between $270 and $800 and a travel time of around 5 hours and 19 minutes.
When traveling from Chicago to Tuscaloosa, the prices for a train ticket can range from $51 to $408. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Tuscaloosa to Chicago can vary from $72 to $410. It's important to note that prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and any discounts or promotions that may be offered.
To get from Chicago to Tuscaloosa without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 718 miles which takes around 11 hours and 47 minutes. This allows for flexibility in your travel schedule and the freedom to make stops along the way. The cost of driving from Chicago to Tuscaloosa by car typically ranges from $130 to $190, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
If you are looking to travel from Chicago to Tuscaloosa without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey by bus takes approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket can range from $70 to $410, depending on the bus company and the time of booking. Taking a bus is a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two cities without a car.
There is no direct link between Chicago and Tuscaloosa by either train or bus. The train journey from Chicago Union Station to Tuscaloosa Amtrak Station would take approximately 26 hours and 38 minutes, with transfers in New Orleans. On the other hand, the bus journey from Chicago Train Station to Tuscaloosa Bus Stop would take approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes, with transfers in Nashville and Birmingham.
The flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Birmingham Airport typically takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. As for the cost, it would depend on various factors, such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. On average, the cost of a one-way ticket can range from $100 to $300. It is always recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Tuscaloosa. With over 94 hotels to choose from, travelers can easily find a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Tuscaloosa start at $53 per night, providing affordable options for all travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, Tuscaloosa has a variety of options to choose from.

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