Chicago, IL, USA to Lansing, MI, USA from $131: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to Lansing: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$131 by trainBest price
272 kmDistance
3h 33m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Lansing 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.
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Traveling From Chicago to Lansing
Traveling from the bustling streets of Chicago to the quieter charm of Lansing offers a refreshing contrast, where vibrant city life meets a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.
Best Neighbourhoods in Lansing
Lansing features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
Old Town
• Art galleries and boutiques abound.
• Hosts vibrant festivals throughout the year.
REO Town
• Historic district with charming architecture.
• Known for trendy restaurants and live music.
Westside
• Family-friendly parks and green spaces.
• Features a range of local breweries.
Best Times To Visit Lansing's Attractions
Maximize your visits to Lansing's highlights with these timing tips.
Michigan State Capitol
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and a peaceful tour.
Potter Park Zoo
Late afternoon visits on weekdays offer cooler weather and lighter attendance.
Old Town
Explore during early spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Lansing Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Lansing experiences a humid continental climate, bringing warm summers and cold winters that shape your travel plans throughout the year. The ideal times to visit are spring and fall, when mild temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Dining in Lansing: A Unique Experience
Try a classic Michigan pasty at one of Lansing's local diners, which showcases a heartwarming blend of flaky crust and savory fillings that differ from Chicago's rich deep-dish pizza. The cozy, homey atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients offer a refreshing departure from the fast-paced dining scene of Chicago.
Chicago - Lansing operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Lansing, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Chicago Union Station to East Lansing Amtrak Station
Average Duration
3h 55mEstimated price
$135-132Website
aa.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Lansing
Average Duration
1h 4mEstimated price
$137-138Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Flint
Average Duration
1h 12mEstimated price
$1350-139Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway to Detroit
Average Duration
1h 6mEstimated price
$130-136Website
united.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Flint
Average Duration
1h 13mEstimated price
$1350-139Website
delta.com
Plane from Chicago Midway to Detroit
Average Duration
1h 7mEstimated price
$130-1070Contact phone
+1 810-629-7080Website
heytaxi.us
Taxi from Flint to Lansing
Average Duration
52mEstimated price
$353-354Contact phone
+1 517-333-0400Website
michiganflyer.com
Bus from Detroit Metro Airport to East Lansing, MI
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
$350-35Chicago to Lansing: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Lansing 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 road trip from Chicago to Lansing, spanning a distance of 217 miles. Enjoy approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes of driving through the heart of the Midwest.
💰 The cost of driving from Chicago to Lansing can range from $35 to $60, offering budget-friendly travel options for those seeking a convenient and economical journey by car.
Average price
$35 - $60
🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Lansing by train takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes. The ticket prices for this route can range from $13 to $107, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination.
🛤️ The journey from Chicago to Lansing via bus can take around 13 hours and 45 minutes, covering a distance of 259 miles with 2 transfers. You will need to take buses operated by Greyhound and Indian Trails, which provide convenient services for travelers along this route.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Lansing is a quick and convenient option with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 3 minutes via American Airlines.
✈️ The total travel time from Chicago to Lansing by plane is approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes, making it a relatively short journey for those looking to reach their destination efficiently.
🎟️ Flight prices between Lansing and Chicago can range from $164 to $377, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the option that best suits their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Lansing Airport
🚌 Route 1: A journey from Chicago to Lansing by bus takes around 5 hours 30 mins covering a distance of 252 mi. With a transfer in Detroit, travelers can enjoy a scenic ride with Greyhound and Indian Trails.
🚌 Route 2: Another option to reach Lansing from Chicago is a 7 hour 47 min bus ride spanning 319 mi with a transfer. Travelers can embark on this adventure with Indian Trails and Michigan Flyer, experiencing multiple stops along the way.
🚌 Route 3: For a quicker route, travelers can opt for a 5 hour 15 min bus trip covering 256 mi with a transfer in Grand Rapids before heading to Lansing. Greyhound and Indian Trails offer a comfortable journey for passengers making this trip.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure that you have the transfer times carefully noted when traveling from Chicago to Lansing; particularly on the Greyhound route, you will have a 1 hour and 45 min transfer at Benton Harbor before you continue with Indian Trails, so plan accordingly.
• Pack some snacks or a light meal for your bus ride; although there are food options near the stations in Chicago and Lansing, having your own refreshments can make your trip more convenient, especially since the bus journey can take over 5 hours.
• Upon arriving at the CATA Intermodal Downtown station in Lansing, make sure to check for local transportation options right at the station, including the CATA bus services for easy access to other areas; you can find information and schedules at their website: cata.org
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Lansing.
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The distance between Chicago and Lansing is 169 miles, or 216.6 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes to reach Lansing from Chicago by train, 6 hours and 17 minutes by taking a flight from Chicago Midway to Detroit and then a bus to Lansing, and 3 hours and 32 minutes by plane. Driving from Chicago to Lansing takes about 3 hours and 39 minutes, while taking a bus takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
To travel from Chicago to Lansing, the most cost-effective option is by train, with prices ranging from $12 to $110. This mode of transportation takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 32 minutes, at a cost of $140 to $380. Consider your budget and time constraints to decide which option suits your needs best.
The cost of traveling by train from Chicago to Lansing ranges from $13 to $107. On the other hand, the cost of taking a bus from Lansing to Chicago varies from $23 to $136. These prices may change depending on factors such as departure time, date, and seating class. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Chicago to Lansing without using public transportation, your best option would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 217 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from Chicago to Lansing can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, with estimates ranging from $35 to $60.
There is no direct link between Chicago and Lansing by bus. However, there are bus services available from Chicago to Lansing via Kalamazoo. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers. The bus services are operated by Indian Trails.
The flight time between Chicago and Lansing is typically 1 hour and 2 minutes for a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $144 to $377. It is recommended to check with airlines and booking websites for the most accurate and up-to-date prices for flights between Chicago and Lansing.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Lansing. With over 60 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices. Prices for these hotels start at just $56 per night, making it affordable for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of options to suit your needs in Lansing.
Trips from Chicago
- Chicago to Peoria
- Chicago to Grand Rapids
- Chicago to South Bend
- Chicago to Lake Geneva
- Chicago to Madison
- Chicago to Kalamazoo
- Chicago to Fort Wayne
- Chicago to Nashville
- Chicago to Phoenix
- Chicago to Milwaukee
- Chicago to Gary
- Chicago to Detroit
- Chicago to Traverse City
- Chicago to Indianapolis
- Chicago to New York City
- Chicago to Minneapolis
- Chicago to Iowa City
- Chicago to Cleveland
- Chicago to Ann Arbor
- Chicago to Springfield
- Chicago to Charlotte
- Chicago to Kansas City
- Chicago to Los Angeles
- Chicago to Naperville
- Chicago to Toledo
- Chicago to Denver
- Chicago to New Orleans
- Chicago to Michigan City
- Chicago to Morelia
- Chicago to Puerto Vallarta
- Chicago to Guadalajara
- Chicago to UPPER PENINSULA OF MICHIGAN
- Chicago to Saint Louis
- Chicago to Aruba
- Chicago to Atlanta
- Chicago to Athens
- Chicago to Istanbul
- Chicago to Champaign
- Chicago to Sydney
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Trips to Peoria
- Ypsilanti to Lansing
- Muskegon to Lansing
- Traverse City to Lansing
- Flint to Lansing
- Fort Wayne to Lansing
- Canton to Lansing
- Milwaukee to Lansing
- Novi to Lansing
- Detroit to Lansing
- Mount Pleasant to Lansing
- Ann Arbor to Lansing
- Toledo to Lansing
- Cadillac to Lansing
- Indianapolis to Lansing
- Okemos to Lansing
- Bay City to Lansing
- Dearborn to Lansing
- Saginaw to Lansing
- Kalamazoo to Lansing
- Holt to Lansing
- Windsor to Lansing
- Louisville to Lansing
- Holland to Lansing
- Pittsburgh to Lansing
- Austin to Lansing
- Saint Louis to Lansing
- Memphis to Lansing
- San Francisco to Lansing
- Owosso to Lansing
- Sarasota to Lansing
- Jackson to Lansing
- Winchester to Lansing
- Ionia to Lansing
- Toronto to Lansing
- Portland to Lansing
- Wilmington to Lansing
- Manchester to Lansing
- Huntsville to Lansing
- Port Huron to Lansing
- Big Rapids to Lansing