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Chicago, IL, USA to Branson, MO, USA from $38: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Branson: 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.

$38 - Train, Bus, ShuttleBest price
760 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Branson 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
Various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$192-525
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
11h  22m
Estimated price
$38-191
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 760 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
14h  52m
Estimated price
$56-1920
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  49m
Estimated price
$84-202
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$130-441
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  10m
Estimated price
$1921-1922
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Traveling From Chicago to Branson

The journey from Chicago to Branson takes you from the bustling city life filled with skyscrapers and cultural experiences to Branson's inviting atmosphere of music, outdoor adventures, and a charming small-town vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Branson

Branson offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Branson Strip
• Home to numerous theaters and live shows.
• Lively atmosphere with restaurants and shops.
Table Rock Lake
• Perfect for water activities and relaxation.
• Scenic views and hiking trails nearby.
Downtown Branson
• Rich in local history and culture.
• Quaint shops and authentic dining options.

Best Times To Visit Branson's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Branson.

Silver Dollar City
Visit on weekdays in the spring or fall to enjoy fewer crowds.
Table Rock Lake
Early mornings during weekdays offer peaceful vistas and fewer boaters.
Branson Landing
Evenings during weekdays are ideal for a relaxed shopping atmosphere.

Branson Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Branson experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Weather can influence your travel plans, so being aware of seasonal changes helps you pack appropriately and plan activities accordingly.

Dining Recommendation in Branson

For a taste of local flavor, try the homemade Ozark-style fried chicken at The Farmhouse Restaurant, where the welcoming atmosphere and hearty portions showcase the region’s comfort food tradition. This experience contrasts with Chicago's vibrant dining scene, offering a more relaxed, community-oriented vibe that highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Chicago - Branson operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Branson, 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 St. Louis

Average Duration
5h 6m
Estimated price
$5253-130

Train from Chicago Union Station to Warrensburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration
9h 43m
Estimated price
$19280-5258
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St. Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$1923-383

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Springfield CU Transit Center

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$19283-382
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
http://jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Warrensburg, MO to Branson / Hollister, MO

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Springfield to Branson / Hollister, MO

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-888-875-6287
Website
https://www.oatstransit.org

Other from Springfield to Branson - Casey's

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$384-1929
Plane
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Springfield

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$130-5252

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Fayetteville

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
$1922-5251
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Springfield

Average Duration
1h 54m
Estimated price
$130-5250

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Fayetteville

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$1922-5251
Taxi

Taxi from Springfield to Branson

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$385-381

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

Traveling between Chicago and Branson 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 Branson, covering a distance of 551 miles and taking around 9 hours and 10 minutes to drive through the heartland of America. 💰 Budget-friendly options to reach Branson from Chicago by car, ranging from $100 to $150, make this journey an affordable and memorable way to experience the charm of both urban and rural landscapes.
Average price
$100 - $150
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Chicago to Branson typically include a café or dining car, where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals. Depending on the train operator, you may be able to pre-order meals for the journey. Check Amtrak's website for their full menu options and services.
• The main operators for your route include Amtrak and possibly other regional lines. Amtrak offers several seating options: Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class has comfortable seating with ample legroom, Business Class features extra amenities and quieter carriages, and First Class provides the most luxury with premium services, complimentary meals, and beverages. Visit Amtrak's site at amtrak.com for detailed seating options.
• Upon arriving in Branson, navigate the station by utilizing the restrooms available inside. Unfortunately, Branson does not have dedicated luggage storage facilities, so make sure to keep your belongings handy. For a quick connection to the city center, use the local Branson Ride public transit available at the station (Check routes and schedules at (bransonride.org), as Route B will take you directly to the heart of Branson.
🛫 Departing from Chicago O'Hare Airport, travelers can enjoy a quick and convenient direct flight to Springfield Airport in Branson. The direct flight typically takes only 1 hour and 38 minutes, making it a smooth journey to the popular destination.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Springfield Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Chicago to Branson by bus, a trip that spans approximately 12 hours and 49 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride through the heartland of America. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and Branson range from $84 to $202, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Explore the flexibility of schedules and fares to find the most convenient option for your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Branson.

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The cheapest and most convenient way to travel from Chicago to Branson is by taking a combination of train, bus, and shuttle. You can take the Amtrak train from Chicago to Springfield and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Branson. The total travel time is around 11 hours and 22 minutes, and the cost can range from $35 to $200 depending on the time of booking and availability. This option allows you to save money while enjoying scenic views during your journey.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Branson is by flying. There are direct flights available from Chicago to Branson and the journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. After arriving at the Branson Airport, you can take a shuttle to reach your final destination in Branson. Overall, this option takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes and offers the convenience of a quick and efficient journey.
It is approximately 472 miles from Chicago to Branson. The road distance is slightly longer at 551 miles. The actual travel time may vary depending on factors such as traffic and the chosen route.
To travel from Chicago to Branson without a car, the best option is to take a train to Springfield which takes around 7-8 hours. From there, you can transfer to a bus or shuttle service that will take you to Branson in approximately 2-3 hours. This combination of train, bus, and shuttle is not only convenient, but also cost-effective, with prices ranging from $35 to $200. It is recommended to research and book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and secure the best fares.
The journey from Chicago to Branson takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes, including transfers. The fastest and most convenient way to make the trip is by flying from Chicago to Springfield-Branson National Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the airport, there are various transportation options available, such as renting a car, taking a taxi, or arranging a shuttle service, to reach Branson, which is approximately a 50-minute drive away.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Branson. With over 1219 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options suitable for different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Branson start at around $41 per night. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability during peak travel seasons.
Yes, you can drive from Chicago to Branson. The driving distance is approximately 551 miles, which can be covered in about 9 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic and route. Make sure to plan your journey accordingly, considering rest stops and fueling along the way.
To get to Branson from Chicago O'Hare Airport, the best option is to take a flight to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Springfield. The flight takes about 1 hour and there are several airlines that offer direct flights. Once you arrive at SGF, you can either rent a car or take a shuttle service to Branson, which is about a 45-minute drive away. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service from the airport to Branson, although this may be more expensive.
United Airlines and American Airlines both offer flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Springfield Airport, which is the nearest airport to Branson. These flights usually have a layover in a major hub city like Dallas or Denver. The flight duration varies depending on the layover time, but it typically takes around 2-4 hours to reach Springfield from Chicago.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Branson is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Springfield Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes. United Airlines and American Airlines are the airlines that offer flights on this route. It is recommended to check their schedules and book a flight that suits your travel needs.
The flight from Chicago to Branson typically takes around 1 hour and 38 minutes. This is based on the quickest direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Springfield Airport. However, actual flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules. It's always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to Branson can range from $84 to $201. These prices vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and ticket availability. It is advisable to book your bus ticket in advance to secure the best price and ensure availability for your desired travel dates.
The cost to drive from Chicago to Branson can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. On average, you can expect to spend between $100 and $150 for the entire journey. It is important to note that this estimate does not include any additional expenses such as accommodation or meals along the way. Additionally, these costs can also vary depending on the type of vehicle you are driving and the efficiency of your car.

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