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Chicago, IL, USA to Rockford, IL, USA from $15: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Chicago to Rockford: 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.

$15 - DriveBest price
137 kmDistance
1h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Rockford 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
Bus
Average Duration
2h  5m
Estimated price
$38-63
Recommended
route map
Distance: 137 km
Duration: 1h 29m

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Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  29m
Estimated price
$15-23
Company
various
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$105-141
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Traveling From Chicago to Rockford

Traveling from Chicago to Rockford offers you a fascinating contrast between the bustling urban landscape of Chicago and the more laid-back, nature-oriented vibe found in Rockford.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rockford

Rockford boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Rockford
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Numerous dining options for every taste.
Edgewater
• Scenic views along the Rock River.
• Great parks for outdoor activities.
Loves Park
• Home to beautiful gardens and nature trails.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with community events.

Best Times To Visit Rockford's Attractions

Planning your visit to Rockford's attractions can enhance your experience.

The Anderson Japanese Gardens
Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful stroll with fewer crowds.
Burpee Museum of Natural History
Afternoons during weekdays are less busy, allowing for a leisurely exploration.
Rockford Riverwalk
Early evenings in spring or fall offer fewer tourists and beautiful views.

Rockford Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rockford experiences a humid continental climate, featuring cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the best seasons for comfortable travel. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities and pack appropriately, ensuring a more enjoyable visit.

Dining Recommendation in Rockford

Visit Lino's Restaurant and savor their homemade Italian lasagna, which showcases fresh, local ingredients and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that feels a world away from Chicago's fast-paced dining scene. The warmth and personal touches in each dish create a dining experience that's distinctly Rockford, offering a taste of genuine hospitality you might not find in the big city.

Chicago - Rockford operators

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

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

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Rockford Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$38-63
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Rockford, IL-Rockford Bus Terminal

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$35-38
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 312-322-6777
Website
https://metra.com

Train from Chicago OTC to Harvard

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$380-381
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Other from Harvard to Rockford

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$384-385

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

Traveling between Chicago and Rockford 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 journey from Chicago to Rockford, spanning a distance of 85 miles. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 29 minutes, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes along the way. 💸 Experience cost-effective travel options from Chicago to Rockford by car, with prices ranging from $15 to $23 depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and toll expenses. Plan your budget accordingly and enjoy a budget-friendly road trip to your destination.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚆 Hop on a train journey from Chicago to Rockford, spanning a distance of 90.6 miles. The route includes a transfer, adding an element of adventure to your trip.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your trip from Chicago to Rockford are provided by Amtrak. The Amtrak trains on this route typically offer a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Make sure to check out their menu as they often feature local products.
• Amtrak provides different seating options on this route. You can choose between Coach Class (Economy), with comfortable reclining seats and ample legroom, and Business Class, which features wider seats with extra legroom and access to additional amenities. Booking Business Class can enhance your travel experience with added comfort.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak, which you can find at their official website: amtrak.com Additionally, check out the schedule for Rockford Transit Authority buses if you need local transport; their site is rockfordtransit.com for real-time updates and routes.
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Rockford by bus takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, offering a convenient and affordable transportation option. 🚌 With bus ticket prices ranging from $38 to $63, passengers can choose from various routes to reach Rockford from Chicago, each with different durations and distances.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Rockford.

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The distance between Chicago and Rockford is approximately 80 miles. By car, it is around 85 miles and takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes. By bus, the travel time is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes. Lastly, by taking a train followed by a taxi, the journey can take approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. These travel times can vary depending on traffic and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Rockford is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes to drive the distance of about 85 miles. This option also tends to be the cheapest, with costs ranging from $15 to $23. Taking a train and then a taxi is another option, but it is typically slower and may take around 2 hours and 36 minutes.
The prices of bus tickets between Rockford and Chicago can vary depending on the specific bus company and any discounts or promotions available. On average, the prices range from $38 to $63 for a one-way ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best deals and compare prices for your travel dates.
To get from Chicago to Rockford without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 85 miles, and it takes around 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from Chicago to Rockford can vary, with prices typically ranging from $15 to $23, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Chicago to Rockford without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes and ticket prices range from $35 to $65. There are several bus companies that offer this route, providing a convenient and affordable transportation option for travelers.
There are 42+ hotels available in Rockford offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices start at $48 per night, with a variety of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include the Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront, Radisson Hotel and Conference Center Rockford, and Holiday Inn Rockford. Travelers can choose from a range of amenities and locations to find a suitable hotel near Rockford.

Trips from Chicago