Chicago, IL, USA to Fort Walton Beach, FL, USA from $77: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$77 - Train, BusBest price

1284 kmDistance

3h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach 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.

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Traveling From Chicago to Fort Walton Beach

The journey from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban atmosphere of the Windy City and the picturesque, laid-back coastal charm of Florida's Emerald Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach features charming neighborhoods, each with its own vibe.

Downtown Fort Walton Beach

• Vibrant dining and shopping scene

• Hosts local festivals and events

Holiday Isle

• Stunning beachfront views

• Excellent water sports and activities

Beal Parkway

• Family-friendly parks and recreation

• Quick access to major attractions

Best Times To Visit Fort Walton Beach's Attractions

Planning your visit to Fort Walton Beach's attractions can enhance your experience.

Okaloosa Island

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter beaches and cooler temperatures.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Weekdays in the off-season allow for smaller crowds and more personalized interactions with marine life.

Henderson Beach State Park

Visit during weekdays or in the shoulder seasons for fewer visitors and picturesque scenery.

Fort Walton Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Fort Walton Beach enjoys a warm, humid subtropical climate, making it a popular destination for sunny beach days, especially from late spring to early fall. Understanding the weather patterns can enhance your travel experience, whether you're planning outdoor adventures or simply relaxing by the shore.

Dining Recommendation

For a true taste of the South, try the blackened grouper at The Back Porch, where the fresh, local seafood captures the essence of coastal dining. This experience contrasts sharply with Chicago’s deep-dish pizza scene, offering a relaxed beachside atmosphere and flavors enhanced by regional spices and ingredients.

Chicago - Fort Walton Beach operators

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

Plane

Website

allegiantair.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Valparaiso Airport

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$3938-3932

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Panama City

Average Duration

2h 8m

Estimated price

$774-83700

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Pensacola

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$8379-770

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Panama City via Nashville

Average Duration

4h 16m

Estimated price

$774-83700

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Valparaiso Airport

Average Duration

4h 4m

Estimated price

$198-837

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Pensacola

Average Duration

5h 6m

Estimated price

$3931-3932

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Panama City via Nashville

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

$8379-770

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

$3939-2220

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

16h 10m

Estimated price

$8370-1987

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Mobile Bus Station

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

$3939-2227

Bus from Mobile Bus Station to Fort Walton Beach

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$2228-2229

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

15h 20m

Estimated price

$2223-8379

Website

palmlandlines.com

Bus from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration

14h 40m

Estimated price

$2222-5852

Chicago to Fort Walton Beach: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Fort Walton Beach 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 Chicago to Fort Walton Beach, covering a distance of 915 miles. Enjoy the journey through different states and landscapes along the way. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach range from $160 to $240, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Plan your budget accordingly and enjoy the cost-effective adventure. ☀️ After approximately 15 hours and 21 minutes of driving, you'll arrive at the sunny shores of Fort Walton Beach. Relax, unwind, and soak up the beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere of this charming Florida destination.

Average price

$160 - $240

🛫 The quickest way to travel from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach is by taking a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Valparaiso Airport, which only takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Fort Walton Beach and Chicago can range from $198 to $837, making it essential for travelers to compare different airlines and booking options for the best deals.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

Valparaiso Airport

🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach by bus, spanning a travel time of 26 hours and 24 minutes. 🌅 Sit back, relax, and take in the diverse landscapes as you make your way to the sunny shores of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach.

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The distance between Chicago and Fort Walton Beach is approximately 798 miles by air and 914.8 miles by car. The typical travel time is about 3 hours and 52 minutes by plane, while it takes approximately 26 hours and 31 minutes by train and bus. Driving from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach would take around 15 hours and 21 minutes, while taking a bus would be slightly longer at 26 hours and 19 minutes.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach is by taking a combination of train and bus. This option typically costs between $75 and $400 and takes approximately 26 hours and 31 minutes. If time is more important, flying is the quickest option, with a typical travel time of 3 hours and 52 minutes. However, this is also usually the most expensive option, with prices ranging from $280 to $1,600.

The prices for a bus ticket between Fort Walton Beach and Chicago range from $117 to $324. This variability is due to factors such as the specific bus company, time of travel, and availability of tickets. It is recommended to check with different bus providers and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.

To get from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance is approximately 915 miles, and it takes about 15 hours and 21 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach can range from $160 to $240, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 26 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $110 and $330. There are no direct trains or flights between the two cities, making the bus the most convenient option for travelers without a car.

The flight between Chicago and Fort Walton Beach typically takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes, assuming there are no delays or layovers. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and the airline, with prices ranging from $288 to $1537. It's always recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal for your travel needs.

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Fort Walton Beach. With over 2699 hotels available, you will have a wide range to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45, so there are options available for different budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, beachfront hotels, or budget-friendly options, Fort Walton Beach has something for everyone.

Chicago, IL, USA to Fort Walton Beach, FL, USA from $77: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Chicago to Fort Walton Beach: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Fort Walton Beach

Best Neighbourhoods in Fort Walton Beach

Best Times To Visit Fort Walton Beach's Attractions

Fort Walton Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Chicago - Fort Walton Beach operators

Chicago to Fort Walton Beach: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

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