Chicago, IL, USA to Bloomington, MN, USA from $18: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to Bloomington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$18 by trainBest price

568 kmDistance

3h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Bloomington 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 Bloomington

Traveling from Chicago to Bloomington offers you a striking contrast between the bustling city life bordered by skyscrapers and the serene, laid-back charm of a university town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bloomington

Bloomington’s neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Downtown Bloomington

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and live music.

• Diverse dining options ranging from casual to fine cuisine.

Bryan Park

• Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and playgrounds.

• Close to scenic walking trails and green spaces.

Old Northside

• Historic architecture showcases Bloomington's rich history.

• Quaint cafes and shops create a charming street experience.

Best Times To Visit Bloomington's Attractions

Planning your visit to Bloomington's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Indiana University

Visit during weekdays in the spring or fall for fewer visitors and beautiful campus scenery.

Monroe Lake

Early mornings or weekday afternoons offer peaceful conditions for boating and fishing.

Bloomington Farmers Market

Arrive early on Saturdays for the freshest produce and less crowded shopping.

Bloomington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bloomington experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit, as mild temperatures and vibrant colors enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Head to the renowned Nick’s English Hut for a taste of their famous breadsticks and rich, homemade pasta, which showcases local ingredients and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Unlike Chicago's fast-paced dining scene, Bloomington's offerings invite a more relaxed experience, allowing you to savor flavors and enjoy the community vibe.

Chicago - Bloomington operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$4790-4791

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 33m

Estimated price

$4792-4793

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$908-4796

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to St. Paul-Minneapolis

Average Duration

7h 51m

Estimated price

$909-905

Contact phone

+1 219-926-5744

Website

mysouthshoreline.com

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$1555-189

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$1555-189

Contact phone

+1 414-266-4409

Website

http://www.badgerbus.badgerbus.com/tickets

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington

Average Duration

4h 35m

Estimated price

$189-4798

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Train Station to Minneapolis Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 10m

Estimated price

$184-904

Drive

Drive from Chicago to Bloomington

Average Duration

6h 47m

Estimated price

$903-904

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

Traveling between Chicago and Bloomington 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 Bloomington, spanning a distance of 417 miles. Enjoy a mix of urban sprawl and picturesque landscapes along the way. 💰 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from $75 to $110 for the journey by car, offering travelers the choice to tailor their budget accordingly. ⏰ With an estimated travel time of approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes, brace yourself for a comfortable drive as you head towards the vibrant city of Bloomington.

Average price

$75 - $110

🚆 Experience a scenic train journey from Chicago to Bloomington that spans 8 hours and 44 minutes. 🌆 Enjoy the views of the Midwest as you travel through Illinois and into Minnesota on your way to Bloomington. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Chicago and Bloomington range from $18 to $155, offering options for various budgets. 🎫 Plan ahead to secure the best deals and seating accommodations for a comfortable and affordable trip.

🛫 Flying from Chicago to Bloomington is a convenient and efficient travel option, with a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Minneapolis Airport taking just 1 hour and 20 minutes. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for flights between Bloomington and Chicago can range from $90 to $479, providing travelers with options to suit their budget and preferences for this quick air journey.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

Minneapolis Airport

🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Bloomington by bus requires a connection in Madison, WI. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes. 💸 Tickets for the bus between Chicago and Bloomington typically range from $64 to $94.

Departure Point

Chicago Union Station

Arrival Point

Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Bloomington.

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The distance between Chicago and Bloomington is approximately 353 miles, or 416.7 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes about 8 hours and 45 minutes to reach Bloomington from Chicago. By taking a train to Milwaukee and then flying, the travel time is around 4 hours and 41 minutes. By plane, the journey from Chicago to Bloomington takes about 3 hours and 12 minutes. However, if traveling by car, it takes approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes, while by bus, it takes approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Bloomington is by train, which takes 8 hours and 45 minutes and costs $18-$170. However, for a more time-efficient option, flying is the fastest way to reach Bloomington, taking only 3 hours and 12 minutes. The cost for a flight ranges between $75-$600. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal priorities, with the train being more budget-friendly and the plane offering a quicker journey.

The prices for trains between Chicago and Bloomington range from $18 to $161. On the other hand, the prices for buses between Bloomington and Chicago vary from $64 to $94. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of travel, booking dates, and the class of service chosen. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To travel from Chicago to Bloomington without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 417 miles. It takes around 6 hours and 47 minutes to drive from Chicago to Bloomington. The cost of this journey by car can vary between $75 and $110, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Chicago to Bloomington is by train. This option takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes and can cost anywhere from $18 to $170. Another convenient option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes and can cost between $75 and $600. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus, which takes about 9 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $60 and $95.

No, there is no direct link between Chicago and Bloomington by bus. However, there are bus services operated by Amtrak and Badger Bus that can take you from Chicago Union Station to Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington via Madison, WI-Lake St. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes.

The flight between Chicago and Bloomington typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary between $80 and $559 depending on factors such as time of booking and airline choice. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to get the best deal.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Bloomington. There are over 423 hotels to choose from with prices starting at $45 per night. The range of hotels offers various amenities and locations, ensuring that travelers can find something that suits their preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly options, there will be plenty of choices available near Bloomington.