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Chicago, IL, USA to Columbia, MO, USA from $25: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Columbia: 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.

$25 - Train, BusBest price
517 kmDistance
3h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Columbia 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
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$268-675
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  46m
Estimated price
$25-171
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 517 km
Duration: 3h 22m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
10h 
Estimated price
$48-133
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
11h  55m
Estimated price
$88-2680
Company
various
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
8h  35m
Estimated price
$136-298
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$2681-2682
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Traveling From Chicago to Columbia

Journeying from Chicago's bustling cityscape to Columbia's charming small-town vibe offers you a contrasting experience filled with urban energy and serene local culture.

Best Neighborhoods in Columbia

Columbia boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

Downtown Columbia
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Diverse dining options from casual to upscale.
East Columbia
• Home to beautiful parks and recreational areas.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with great schools nearby.
Columbia Mall Area
• Shopping paradise featuring major retail brands.
• Numerous entertainment choices, including restaurants and cinemas.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Columbia.

Columbia Museum of Art
Visit on Wednesdays for quiet galleries and fewer visitors.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Early mornings on weekdays offer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
Congaree National Park
Spring and fall weekends provide stunning views with mild weather.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable outdoor activities. Be prepared for potential rainfall year-round, as it can influence your travel plans and outdoor excursions.

Dining Recommendation in Columbia

Try the local specialty, fried catfish, at a cozy spot like the Old Mill Bread Company, where you can enjoy a casual dining atmosphere that’s a refreshing change from Chicago's fast-paced restaurant scene. The flavors here highlight fresh, regional ingredients and offer a warm, welcoming vibe that truly captures the essence of Southern hospitality.

Chicago - Columbia operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Columbia (COU)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$2688-2689
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to St. Louis

Average Duration
5h 6m
Estimated price
$6750-6751

Train from Chicago Union Station to Jefferson City Amtrak Station

Average Duration
8h 2m
Estimated price
$250-6758
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$1710-1711

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Columbia

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$258-259
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Burlington, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$259-6756

Bus from Burlington, Ia to Hannibal

Average Duration
Estimated price
$6757-259
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1-888-875-6287
Website
oatstransit.org

Shuttle from Hannibal to Columbia

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$1712-1713
Taxi
Contact phone
+1-573-636-7101

Taxi from Jefferson City Amtrak Station to Columbia

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$1714-6758

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

Traveling between Chicago and Columbia 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 Columbia covering a distance of 388 miles. Enjoy a journey through the heartland of the Midwest, witnessing charming landscapes along the way. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options for your travel, with car trip prices ranging from $70 to $110. Plan a cost-effective adventure to Columbia, while relishing the freedom of the open road. ⏰ Spend approximately 6 hours and 44 minutes on this road trip, immersing yourself in the journey from Chicago to Columbia. Create lasting memories as you explore the beauty of the route and anticipate the adventures that await in Columbia.
Average price
$70 - $110
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Columbia is a convenient option with the quickest direct flight taking only 1 hour and 21 minutes. 🔍 American Airlines provides flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Columbia Airport, making it easy to reach your destination in approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, flight prices between Columbia and Chicago can range from $268 to $675, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When flying from Chicago O'Hare to Columbia, keep in mind that American Airlines is the primary carrier for this route, so check their schedule frequently for any potential changes or updates before your trip.
• Upon arrival at Columbia Regional Airport, expect a smaller facility compared to O'Hare; the baggage claim area can be less crowded, but be sure to quickly locate the signs directing you to ground transportation for efficient navigation.
• Taxi fares from Columbia Regional Airport to the city center typically range from $20 to $30; consider downloading the local rideshare apps, like Uber, for potentially cheaper or more convenient options—check out the app for real-time pricing.
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Columbia by bus involves a journey with transfers, taking approximately 10 hours. There is no direct bus route available, so passengers will need to change buses at St Louis Bus Station. 🚌 The bus service for this route is operated by Greyhound USA, with departures from Chicago Bus Station and arrivals at Columbia station. The trip offers a comfortable and convenient way to reach Columbia from Chicago, with a duration of 10 hours. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and Columbia range from $48 to $133, offering travelers affordable options for transportation between the two cities. Passengers can enjoy a scenic journey and relax during the comfortable bus ride.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Columbia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Columbia.

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The distance between Chicago and Columbia is approximately 321 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 387.6 miles. If you are looking for the quickest option, flying would take approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes. Taking a train and then a bus would take around 8 hours and 46 minutes. If you prefer driving, it would take around 6 hours and 44 minutes. Lastly, traveling by bus would take the longest at approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Columbia is by train and bus, which takes 8 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $24 to $180. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by flying, which takes 3 hours and 23 minutes and costs between $260 to $470. This option is more expensive but can significantly reduce travel time.
The prices for a bus ticket between Columbia and Chicago can range from $48 to $132 depending on the time of booking and availability. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best price. Additionally, there may be discounts available for students, seniors, or certain memberships. It is advisable to check with the bus company or travel agent for any promotional offers or deals that may be available.
To travel from Chicago to Columbia without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 388 miles. The journey usually takes around 6 hours and 44 minutes by car. However, please note that the prices for car rentals or fuel costs may vary ranging from $70 to $110.
To travel from Chicago to Columbia without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes. The cost can vary between $24 to $180 depending on the specific train and bus options chosen. This route allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the hassle of driving.
No, there is no direct link between Chicago and Columbia. However, there are bus services operated by Greyhound USA that connect the two cities with a transfer in St. Louis. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes. Buses depart from Chicago Bus Station and arrive at Columbia station. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability before planning your trip.
The flight between Chicago O'Hare Airport and Columbia Airport typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes. The price of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $268 to $465.
There are over 43 hotels available in Columbia. Prices start at $39 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn, with a variety of amenities and locations to choose from. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Columbia