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Chicago, IL, USA to Gainesville, FL, USA from $50: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Gainesville: 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.

$50 - PlaneBest price
1448 kmDistance
6h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Gainesville 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
Average Duration
7h  8m
Estimated price
$74-437
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$50-267
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1448 km
Duration: 6h 50m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  41m
Estimated price
$72-342
Company
Greyhound, FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
23h  25m
Estimated price
$86-740
Company
Palmland, FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
22h  9m
Estimated price
$93-178
Company
Palmland, FlixBus
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
22h  24m
Estimated price
$93-178
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
17h  19m
Estimated price
$741-742

Traveling From Chicago to Gainesville

Traveling from Chicago to Gainesville offers a striking contrast between the bustling city life filled with skyscrapers and rich cultural offerings in Chicago and the laid-back, warm Southern charm of Gainesville, where nature and a vibrant community spirit take center stage.

Best Neighborhoods in Gainesville

Gainesville boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and charm.

Downtown Gainesville
• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
• Home to local art galleries and shops.
Haile Plantation
• Picturesque walking trails and parks.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with community events.
University Heights
• Proximity to the University of Florida.
• Lively college town vibe with coffee shops.

Best Times To Visit Gainesville's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Gainesville's top attractions.

Gainesville Wetlands
Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching and peaceful hikes.
Florida Museum of Natural History
Weekday afternoons offer fewer crowds for an immersive experience.
Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park
Visiting in spring provides pleasant weather and blooming scenery.

Gainesville Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Gainesville enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it a destination that you can visit comfortably year-round. Spring and fall are particularly inviting, offering pleasant temperatures and a vibrant outdoor experience, while summer's heat can influence your travel plans.

Dining Recommendation in Gainesville

In Gainesville, you should try the local favorite, Gator Tail, a dish that offers a taste of Southern cuisine and showcases the region's unique ingredients. The casual atmosphere of restaurants like The Swamp, with its relaxed vibe and vibrant outdoor seating, presents a stark contrast to Chicago's bustling dining scene, inviting you to savor flavors that reflect the rich culture of the South.

Chicago - Gainesville operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Gainesville

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$747-4371

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Gainesville via Atlanta

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$745-746

Plane from Chicago Midway to Gainesville via Atlanta

Average Duration
5h 38m
Estimated price
$4372-4373
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Gainesville via Charlotte

Average Duration
5h 28m
Estimated price
$4374-4375

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Gainesville via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$4376-7470

Plane from Chicago Midway to Gainesville via Charlotte

Average Duration
5h 54m
Estimated price
$4377-500
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Orlando

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$749-4370

Plane from Chicago Midway to Orlando via Covington

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$749-4370

Plane from Chicago Midway to Orlando via Nashville

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$749-4370
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Orlando to Gainesville

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$4379-4378

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Gainesville

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$500-501

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
15h 20m
Estimated price
$4378-744
Website
palmlandlines.com

Bus from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration
14h 40m
Estimated price
$502-503
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
16h 10m
Estimated price
$504-4374

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

Traveling between Chicago and Gainesville 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 epic road trip from Chicago to Gainesville spanning 1051 miles. Get ready for a journey filled with diverse landscapes and exciting pit stops along the way. ⏱️ A drive lasting around 17 hours and 19 minutes will lead you to the charming city of Gainesville. Plan your stops wisely for a smooth and enjoyable ride through the heartlands of the United States. 💰 Prices for this adventure range from $190 to $280 depending on your choice of route and pit stops. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make your way from the Windy City to the sunny shores of Florida's Gulf Coast.
Average price
$190 - $280
🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Gainesville by train takes approximately 1 day and 1 hour, covering a distance of 1,033 miles with a transfer along the way. The first leg of the journey involves a bus towards Atlanta Bus Station lasting about 15 hours and 55 minutes, operated by Greyhound. 🌴 After arriving at Atlanta Bus Station, travelers will board another bus towards Miami Intermodal Center for about 5 hours and 45 minutes before reaching Gainesville Bus Stop. This second leg of the trip is operated by Greyhound, providing a convenient transfer option for passengers continuing their journey. 🎟️ Alternatively, there is another route available with a similar travel time of 1 day and 1-hour covering a distance of 1,046 miles. This route also involves a transfer, starting with a bus to Atlanta Bus Station followed by a connecting bus to Orlando Bus Station. This route is operated by FlixBus, offering a different travel experience for those looking to explore Gainesville by train.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Gainesville involves a journey with one stopover, lasting approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes. Both Delta and American Airlines provide flights for this route. 🌴 Upon arrival in Gainesville after a total flight duration of 7 hours and 8 minutes, travelers can explore the city's vibrant culture and natural beauty. Be prepared for warm weather and southern hospitality upon landing. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and Gainesville typically range from $74 to $437, so booking in advance or keeping an eye out for deals can help travelers find the best value for their trip.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Gainesville Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 6m and has one stopover
🚌 Planning a bus trip from Chicago to Gainesville? While there is no direct route, you can still make the journey in approximately 23 hours and 25 minutes with a transfer in Atlanta. Greyhound and Flixbus operate services for this route. 🛣️ The distance between Chicago and Gainesville is 1,034 miles, and depending on the route you choose, you may have to make one or two transfers along the way. The prices for a bus ticket can vary between $93 to $178 for this adventure.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Gainesville station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus ticket, consider using both Greyhound (greyhound.com) and FlixBus (flixbus.com) to compare prices and schedules, as both services operate between Chicago and Gainesville with different travel times and transfer options.
• Prepare for a long trip by packing snacks and entertainment, as the first leg to Atlanta will take roughly 15 to 16 hours; download movies or audiobooks and bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated along the way.
• Upon arriving at the Gainesville Bus Stop, be ready for local transportation; check the Gainesville RTS bus schedules (go-rts.com) and routes in advance to make your next connection easily, or consider using rideshare services since the bus stop is near key city areas.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Gainesville.

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The distance between Chicago and Gainesville is approximately 900 miles. If you choose to fly, the typical travel time is around 6 hours and 32 minutes. Another option is to fly to Orlando from Chicago, and then take a bus to Gainesville, which takes around 9 hours and 5 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it usually takes around 17 hours and 19 minutes by car, covering a road distance of 1050.7 miles. Taking a bus from Chicago to Gainesville is the longest option with a typical travel time of 22 hours and 24 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Gainesville is by bus and night bus via Atlanta, which costs around $90-$180. Although it takes the longest time at 22 hours and 24 minutes, it is a more affordable option for budget travelers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a time-efficient option, flying is the quickest way to get from Chicago to Gainesville, taking only 6 hours and 32 minutes. However, it does come at a higher cost, ranging from $190 to $600.
The prices for a bus ticket between Gainesville and Chicago can vary from $93 to $178. It's important to check different bus companies and compare their prices to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may fluctuate depending on the time of year and demand for travel between the two cities. It is recommended to book in advance and be flexible with travel dates to find the most affordable option.
To get from Chicago to Gainesville without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1051 miles, and the journey takes around 17 hours and 19 minutes. You may need to budget for fuel and toll expenses, but the cost of driving can vary between $190 and $280 depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
To travel from Chicago to Gainesville without a car, the best option is to take a bus. There is a night bus option available that goes via Atlanta, taking approximately 22 hours and 24 minutes. The cost of this bus journey can range from $90 to $180. This is a convenient and cost-effective method of transportation for those without access to a car.
No, there is no direct link between Chicago and Gainesville by bus. However, you can take a bus from Chicago Train Station to Gainesville with a transfer at Atlanta Bus Station, which takes approximately 23 hours and 20 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA.
The flight time between Chicago and Gainesville is approximately 4 hours with one stopover. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $194 to $557, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is important to note that there is no direct flight available, so passengers should plan for a layover.
There are several options for accommodation near Gainesville. There are over 175 hotels available in the area, offering a variety of price ranges and amenities. Prices start at $51 per night, making it accessible for various budget levels. Some popular hotels in Gainesville include Hilton University of Florida Conference Center, Holiday Inn Gainesville University Center, and Hampton Inn & Suites Gainesville-Downtown.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Gainesville