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Chicago, IL, USA to Atlanta, IL, USA from $28: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Atlanta: 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.

$28 - DriveBest price
225.3 kmDistance
2h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Atlanta 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$42-136
Recommended
route map
Distance: 225.3 km
Duration: 2h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  37m
Estimated price
$28-45
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$88-148
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$92-261
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$212-435
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$222-325
Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$252-460
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$266-395

Traveling From Chicago to Atlanta

Your journey from Chicago to Atlanta showcases the bustling urban vibe of the Windy City alongside the warm Southern charm and rich history of Atlanta.

Best Neighbourhoods in Atlanta

Atlanta features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Midtown
• Home to the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
• Vibrant arts scene with museums and galleries.
Buckhead
• Known for upscale shopping and dining.
• Features beautiful mansions and parks.
Old Fourth Ward
• Rich in history with the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
• Trendy bars and restaurants along the BeltLine.

Best Times To Visit Atlanta's Attractions

Maximize your Atlanta experience by timing your visits to popular attractions right.

Georgia Aquarium
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds.
World of Coca-Cola
Late afternoons, especially on weekdays, offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Visit during weekday mornings for a peaceful stroll among the blooms.

Atlanta Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Atlanta enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable travel. Be prepared for occasional rain, as weather can influence outdoor activities, so planning accordingly enhances your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Atlanta

Don't miss out on visiting Mary Mac's Tea Room to savor their famous fried chicken, which embodies the heartwarming essence of Southern comfort food. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the use of locally sourced ingredients create a dining experience that contrasts sharply with Chicago's vibrant, deep-dish pizza scene.

Chicago - Atlanta operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Lincoln Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$6-95
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Bloomington

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$23-65
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Bloomington

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$260-400

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Peoria

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$85-390

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Springfield

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$100-290

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Champaign

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$250-490
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Peoria

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
$100-410

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Decatur

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
$110-220
Other Show other routes

Other from Decatur to Atlanta

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$120-150

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

Traveling between Chicago and Atlanta 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 Atlanta, covering a distance of 157 miles. The journey promises smooth highways and charming Midwest landscapes along the way. 💰 The cost of travelling by car from Chicago to Atlanta ranges from $28 to $45, offering budget-friendly options for a convenient and flexible journey. Enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace and making memorable stops along the route. 🌆 Reach Atlanta from Chicago in approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and southern hospitality of this charming Illinois town. Prepare for a delightful adventure filled with warm Southern welcome and hospitality.
Average price
$28 - $45
🚂 Traveling by train from Chicago to Atlanta takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, offering a convenient and time-efficient mode of transportation. 🎟️ The prices for train tickets between Chicago and Atlanta can range from $42 to $136, providing a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. 🚌 For those looking for a longer but scenic route, a 16-hour journey spanning 693 miles is available with a transfer in Louisville. This multi-step bus route offers a unique travel experience with stops in charming cities along the way.
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling on Amtrak's Crescent service from Chicago to Atlanta, you can enjoy onboard catering services that offer a selection of meals and beverages. In Economy Class, food can be purchased from the Café Car, which provides sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. If you choose First Class, you'll benefit from complimentary meals served in the Dining Car, featuring a more extensive menu and table service.
• Amtrak offers several seating options on its Crescent route, including Business Class and First Class. Business Class provides extra legroom and wider seats compared to Economy. First Class offers more luxurious cabin features, including meal service and complimentary drinks. Make sure to book your seats early to secure the desired class, especially during busy travel seasons.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. You can book tickets and find additional information about the services on their official website: amtrak.com While traveling, check local transport schedules in Atlanta through the MARTA website for public transit options: itsmarta.com Upon arriving at Atlanta's Peach Tree station, note that there is a luggage storage facility available for a fee, and restrooms are located in the station; however, showers are not typically accessible here. To get to the city center quickly, utilize the MARTA train service by boarding the 'Red' or 'Gold' line at Five Points station, which is directly connected to the Amtrak arrival station.
🛫 Traveling from Chicago to Atlanta by plane offers a convenient and quick option. The quickest direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Bloomington Airport takes only 57 minutes. ✈️ American Airlines provides flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Bloomington Airport, making it easy to reach your destination. From Bloomington, the total travel time to Atlanta from Chicago is approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Atlanta and Chicago can range from $252 to $460, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred flight options based on budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Bloomington Airport
🚌 Planning a trip from Chicago to Atlanta by bus typically takes around 5 hours and 7 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $88 to $148. 🚌 Route options vary in duration and transfers, such as a 16-hour journey covering 694 miles with a transfer in Nashville before heading to Atlanta. 🚌 Other routes may involve additional transfers, like a 20-hour trip spanning 819 miles with stops in cities like Tallahassee and Birmingham before reaching Atlanta.
Useful tips for bus travellers
Consider booking your bus ticket in advance through Greyhound or Megabus to secure the best prices, as fares can range from $88 to $148 depending on the time and day of travel. Visit Greyhound and Megabus for schedules.
When transferring in Nashville, pay close attention to the terminal information and platform announcements as it can be a busy hub; you'll be switching from your Greyhound bus to another bus, so allow sufficient time to navigate through the station.
Upon arriving at the Atlanta Bus Station, be prepared for a bustling environment and look for signs leading you to MARTA, Atlanta's public transit system; using MARTA can help you easily reach various parts of the city, including downtown attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Atlanta.

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The distance between Chicago and Atlanta is approximately 140 miles. The typical travel time by train is 2 hours and 58 minutes. Another option is to fly to Peoria and then drive, which takes about 3 hours and 43 minutes. Alternatively, flying directly from Chicago to Atlanta takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes. Driving from Atlanta to Chicago usually takes about 2 hours and 37 minutes, while taking the bus can take around 5 hours and 7 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Atlanta is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $28 and $45. This option allows you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore any sites along the way. Additionally, driving gives you the convenience of transporting belongings, making it a practical choice for travelers.
The prices for a train ticket from Chicago to Atlanta vary from $42 to $136, depending on factors such as the class of travel and availability. On the other hand, bus fares from Atlanta to Chicago range from $88 to $148, with prices also influenced by factors such as the time of travel and the type of bus service. It is advisable to check the specific dates and options to find the best prices and deals for your travel.
To travel from Chicago to Atlanta without using public transportation, you can drive which takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. The driving distance is around 157 miles. The cost of driving from Chicago to Atlanta can range from $28 to $45, depending on various factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Chicago to Atlanta without a car, the best option is to take the train. It takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $40 and $140. Alternatively, you could consider taking a bus, which takes about 5 hours and 7 minutes and costs $85 to $150. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes and costs $250 to $460.
The flight between Chicago and Atlanta typically takes around 55 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary from $252 to $460. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are several hotels available near Atlanta. Options include the Route 66 Inn, which starts at $44 per night, as well as other hotels in the area. These accommodations provide a range of amenities and services for guests. It is recommended to check availability and book in advance to secure the best rates and ensure a comfortable stay.