1map logoGo to main page

Chicago, IL, USA to Council Bluffs, IA, USA from $33: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Council Bluffs, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Council Bluffs: 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.

$33 by trainBest price
692 kmDistance
4h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Council Bluffs 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
Southwest Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$104-557
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
9h  3m
Estimated price
$33-188
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 692 km
Duration: 4h 1m

See more options

Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
10h  41m
Estimated price
$88-1040
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
11h  41m
Estimated price
$90-172
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  23m
Estimated price
$100-347
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
7h  35m
Estimated price
$1041-1042
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Council Bluffs

Journeying from Chicago's bustling urban landscape to Council Bluffs' tranquil charm offers a striking contrast between vibrant city life and serene Midwestern comforts.

Best Neighbourhoods in Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinctive experiences for visitors.

Downtown Council Bluffs
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Home to unique shops and dining options.
Harrison Hills
• Scenic views and lush parks for outdoor activities.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with community events.
Kanesville
• Rich history with notable architecture.
• Close to local attractions and cultural sites.

Best Times To Visit Council Bluffs's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Council Bluffs’ attractions.

Fontenelle Forest
Early mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds and peaceful trails.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Visit during mid-afternoon on weekdays for a quieter exploration.
Lake Manawa State Park
Spring and fall weekends provide beautiful scenery without summer crowds.

Council Bluffs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Council Bluffs experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Weather can impact your travel plans, so be prepared for occasional storms or snowfall depending on the season.

Dining in Council Bluffs: A Taste of the Local Scene

Try the ribeye steak at 360 Steakhouse, where you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with breathtaking views of the Missouri River. This local gem offers a simpler, heartier flavor profile featuring fresh, regional ingredients that contrast beautifully with Chicago's more diverse and eclectic culinary offerings.

Chicago - Council Bluffs operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Omaha (OMA)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$104-557

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Omaha (OMA)

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$100-347
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Omaha Amtrak Station

Average Duration
8h 55m
Estimated price
$33-188
Bus
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE

Average Duration
11h 41m
Estimated price
$90-172
all-pages.transport_night bus
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

all-pages.transport_night bus from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE

Average Duration
10h 41m
Estimated price
$88-1040
Drive

Drive from Chicago to Council Bluffs

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
$1041-1042

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

Traveling between Chicago and Council Bluffs 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 picturesque road trip from Chicago to Council Bluffs spanning 462 miles. 🛣️ Enjoy the scenic Midwest landscapes as you traverse through the heartland of America. ⛽🚦 Plan for a budget-friendly adventure with car travel costs ranging from $80 to $130 for the journey to Council Bluffs from Chicago. 📍 Take in the charm of the small towns and vast expanses along the way. 🌟 Arrive in Council Bluffs after approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes of driving time, ready to explore its historical sites and vibrant community. 🛣️🌆 Your road trip promises a mix of discovery and relaxation, making it a memorable journey through the heart of the Midwest.
Average price
$80 - $130
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chicago to Council Bluffs spanning approximately 9 hours and 3 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for this train ride vary, offering a range of options from $33 to $188, allowing travelers to choose according to their preferences and budget.
🛫 Flying from Chicago Midway Airport to Omaha Airport with Southwest Airlines is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 30 minutes. 🛄 Once in Omaha, it will take approximately 30 minutes to drive to Council Bluffs, making the total travel time from Chicago to Council Bluffs by plane around 4 hours and 1 minute. 💸 Prices for flights between Council Bluffs and Chicago can range from $104 to $557, offering travelers a variety of options depending on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Omaha Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Council Bluffs by bus involves a journey that includes transfers, taking approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes. 🗺️ There is no direct bus route, but travelers can take a service departing from Chicago and arriving at 20th & East Locust SW via 13th & Farnam NE. 💵 The cost of a bus ticket between Council Bluffs and Chicago ranges from $90 to $172, with services operated by Burlington Trailways.
Departure Point
Chicago, Il station
Arrival Point
Omaha, Ne station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Council Bluffs.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chicago and Council Bluffs is 430 miles, with a road distance of 462 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes 9 hours and 3 minutes to reach Council Bluffs from Chicago, by plane it takes 4 hours and 1 minute, by car it takes 7 hours and 35 minutes, and by bus it takes 11 hours and 41 minutes for the journey from Chicago to Council Bluffs.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chicago to Council Bluffs is by train, with tickets costing between $30-$190 and a travel time of 9 hours and 3 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, with a travel time of 4 hours and 1 minute and ticket prices ranging from $100-$600. Depending on your budget and schedule, choosing between these two transportation options can help you plan your trip accordingly.
When traveling between Chicago and Council Bluffs, the prices for a train ticket range from $33 to $188, offering budget-friendly to higher-end options for passengers. On the other hand, bus fares for the same route can vary between $90 to $172, providing travelers with more economical choices compared to the train. It's advisable to check for current prices and availability as they may fluctuate based on factors such as demand and booking time.
To travel from Chicago to Council Bluffs without using public transportation, you can drive the 462-mile distance, which takes around 7 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of driving from Chicago to Council Bluffs typically ranges from $80 to $130, depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This option provides flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the journey at your own pace and potentially explore scenic routes along the way.
To travel from Chicago to Council Bluffs without a car, you have several options. The most time-efficient way is to fly, taking approximately 4 hours and costing between $100-$600. Another option is to take the train, which takes around 9 hours and costs $30-$190. You could also consider the bus, which takes the longest at 11 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $85-$180. Choose the mode of transportation that best suits your needs in terms of time and budget.
There is no direct bus route between Chicago and Council Bluffs. However, there are bus services operated by Burlington Trailways that depart from Chicago and arrive at Omaha, NE, with a transfer in between. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes. Travelers can expect to make their way from Chicago to Omaha before continuing on to Council Bluffs.
The quickest direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Omaha Airport, which is near Council Bluffs, takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The prices for a flight between Council Bluffs and Chicago typically range from $104 to $557, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of flights. Travelers have the option to choose from a range of prices and flight times based on their preferences and budget when planning this route.
Near Council Bluffs there is a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, with over 190 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $42 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxury choices for visitors. Options include well-known hotel chains, independent boutique hotels, and homestays, providing a variety of stay experiences for travelers in the area. It is recommended to explore different booking platforms and consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews when selecting the best accommodation for your stay near Council Bluffs.

Trips from Chicago