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Chicago, IL, USA to Grinnell, IA, USA from $50: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Grinnell: 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 - OtherBest price
462 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Grinnell 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
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
6h  57m
Estimated price
$72-132
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$50-75
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 462 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$90-721
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Bus
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$196-720
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$246-394

Traveling From Chicago to Grinnell

Journeying from Chicago's bustling cityscape to Grinnell's charming small-town vibe offers you a chance to experience the dynamic contrasts between urban energy and tranquil living.

Best Neighbourhoods in Grinnell

Grinnell boasts inviting neighborhoods that reflect its welcoming community spirit.

Downtown Grinnell
• Vibrant arts scene with local galleries.
• Diverse dining options featuring farm-to-table cuisine.
Grinnell College Area
• Picturesque campus with beautiful architecture.
• Engaging cultural events and lectures open to the public.
East Grinnell
• Family-friendly parks and recreational facilities.
• Peaceful residential streets with charming homes.

Best Times To Visit Grinnell's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experiences in Grinnell.

Grinnell College
Visiting during weekday afternoons provides a quieter atmosphere and fewer tourists.
Central Park
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for enjoying the park’s serenity.
The Mayflower Community
Weekdays allow you to explore cultural events without the weekend crowds.

Grinnell Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Grinnell experiences a humid continental climate, which brings four distinct seasons characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are ideal seasons to visit, as the weather is generally mild, enhancing your outdoor activities and local explorations.

Dining Recommendation in Grinnell

Explore the flavors at the Prairie Canary, where you can savor their signature dish, a hearty, locally-sourced pork loin with apple chutney, showcasing the region's farm-to-table ethos. This intimate setting offers a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on seasonal ingredients, providing a refreshing contrast to Chicago's fast-paced dining scene.

Chicago - Grinnell operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Grinnell, Ia

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$727-728

Bus from Des Moines, Ia to Grinnell, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$7256-1326
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Cedar Rapids

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$729-1320

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Waterloo

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$72590-1321

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$1322-1320
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Cedar Rapids

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$729-1323

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$1324-7270
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 515-289-9800

Taxi from Ankeny, IA to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
13m
Estimated price
$7256-1328
Contact phone
+1 515-243-1111

Taxi from Ankeny, IA to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
13m
Estimated price
$7256-1328

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

Traveling between Chicago and Grinnell 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.

🚗 Journey from Chicago to Grinnell by car covers a scenic distance of 287 miles, taking around 4 hours and 46 minutes of drive time. The route promises a mix of urban landscapes and charming Midwestern scenery, making the drive enjoyable and memorable. 💰 Cost-effective travel options are available for a road trip from Chicago to Grinnell, with the estimated price range falling between $50 to $75. This allows flexibility for travelers to budget accordingly while enjoying the convenience and comfort of a car journey.
Average price
$50 - $75
🛫 The journey from Chicago to Grinnell starts with a quick 1 hour and 6-minute direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Cedar Rapids Airport. Both American Airlines and United Airlines provide flights for this route. 🛄 Upon arriving at Cedar Rapids Airport, travelers can opt for a rental car or shuttle service to reach Grinnell, located approximately 60 miles away. The scenic drive offers glimpses of the Midwest landscape.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Cedar Rapids Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Grinnell by bus takes approximately 6 hours and 57 minutes, offering a scenic journey through the Midwest. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between Grinnell and Chicago ranges from $72 to $132, providing budget-friendly transportation options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Grinnell.

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The distance between Chicago and Grinnell is approximately 264 miles, with a road distance of 287 miles. If you choose to fly, it typically takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes, factoring in the time to fly to Cedar Rapids and then drive to Grinnell. Driving directly from Chicago to Grinnell usually takes about 4 hours and 46 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Chicago to Grinnell generally takes around 6 hours and 57 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Grinnell is to drive. It is the cheapest option, with estimated costs ranging from $50 to $75. The driving distance is approximately 287 miles, and the travel time is around 4 hours and 46 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest way to reach Grinnell is to fly to Cedar Rapids and then drive, which takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes, with estimated costs ranging from $90 to $440.
The prices for a bus ticket from Chicago to Grinnell can range from $72 to $132 depending on the specific bus company and the time of travel. It is always best to book your bus ticket in advance to secure the best possible price. Other modes of transportation such as flying or driving may also have different prices, so it is recommended to compare the prices and travel times before making a decision.
To travel from Chicago to Grinnell without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 287 miles, and the journey takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes. The cost of driving from Chicago to Grinnell by car typically ranges from $50 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Chicago to Grinnell is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 57 minutes and the cost ranges from $70 to $140. Taking a bus is a convenient and cost-effective option for non-drivers, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
The flight duration between Chicago and Grinnell is typically 1 hour and 5 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights between these two cities, so travelers would need to take a connecting flight to Cedar Rapids Airport. The costs of these flights can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, so it is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date pricing information.
There are several options for accommodation near Grinnell. There are at least five hotels available in the area, with prices starting at $59. Some popular options include the Comfort Inn & Suites, AmericInn by Wyndham Grinnell, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. These hotels provide comfortable rooms and convenient amenities for travelers visiting Grinnell.