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Chicago, IL, USA to Saint Louis, MO, USA from $11: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Saint Louis, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Saint Louis: 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.

$11 by trainBest price
425 kmDistance
4h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Saint Louis 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
Train
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$11-130
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$11-130
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 425 km
Duration: 4h 7m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$30-110
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$35-85
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$111-112
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$113-114
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$286-1108
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Traveling From Chicago to Saint Louis

The journey from Chicago to Saint Louis offers a striking contrast between the bustling city life of Chicago and the rich cultural heritage and relaxed vibe of Saint Louis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Saint Louis

Saint Louis features diverse neighborhoods, each with unique charm and attractions.

Central West End
• Lively dining and shopping scene.
• Historic architecture with beautiful parks.
Soulard
• Home to the famous Soulard Farmers Market.
• Known for vibrant nightlife and music venues.
Forest Park
• Hosts world-class museums and attractions.
• Expansive green spaces for outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Saint Louis's Attractions

Timing your visits to attractions can significantly enhance your experience in Saint Louis.

Gateway Arch
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Weekdays in spring offer blooming flowers and peaceful strolls.
Saint Louis Zoo
Arrive right at opening time for a less crowded experience.

Saint Louis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Saint Louis experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for mild temperatures and vibrant scenery; however, understanding local weather patterns can greatly enhance your travel plans and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Saint Louis

Try a St. Louis-style barbecue at Pappy’s Smokehouse, where tender, smoked ribs slathered in tangy sauce offer a remarkable departure from Chicago's deep-dish pizza; the vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on local flavors make dining in Saint Louis a memorable experience that reflects the city's culinary heritage.

Chicago - Saint Louis operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Saint Louis, 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
$11-130

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$352-1309
Bus Show bus routes
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
$35-85
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to St. Louis Airport

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$115-116
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to St. Louis

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$117-1300

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Springfield

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$117-1300
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to St. Louis

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$117-1300
Website
gojetairlines.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to St. Louis

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$1302-1303
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to St. Louis via Quincy

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$1304-1305

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

Traveling between Chicago and Saint Louis 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 St. Louis covering 298 miles of diverse Midwest landscapes. Enjoy the journey as you pass through charming small towns and open highways. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $50 to $80 for the trip. Plan ahead to optimize cost savings and ensure a smooth drive with necessary rest stops along the way.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚆 Experience a scenic journey from Chicago to Saint Louis by train. The direct route operated by Amtrak offers services five times a day, taking approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes to reach your destination. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you travel 281 miles between these two iconic Midwestern cities. 🌆 Departing from Chicago Union Station, embark on a comfortable train ride towards St. Louis Gateway Transportation Center. Whether you choose the Lincoln Service or the Missouri River Runner, both routes offer a convenient way to travel between these bustling metropolises. With ticket prices ranging from $11 to $130, there are options to suit every budget for your journey through the heart of the Midwest.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
St. Louis station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to St. Louis, consider Amtrak’s services. They offer a Café Car where you can purchase snacks, soft drinks, coffee, and a selection of sandwiches and salads. On some routes, you might also find a dining car with more substantial meal options if you’re traveling during meal times.
• Amtrak's Cardinal Route operates the Chicago to St. Louis route, providing various seating options. You can choose from Coach Class, which is the standard economy seating with basic amenities, or Business Class for a larger, more comfortable seat with extra legroom and complimentary beverages. Amtrak also offers First Class seating on specific trains with more spacious accommodations and enhanced services. Visit Amtrak’s website at amtrak.com for more details.
• Once you arrive at St. Louis’ Gateway Station, you can leave luggage at the Amtrak Baggage Services desk for a small fee. The station is equipped with restrooms but does not have shower facilities. When looking to navigate the arrival station, the customer service desk at the station can assist you with maps and directions to your destination.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Saint Louis is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Southwest Airlines provides flights between Chicago Midway Airport and St. Louis Airport. 🌆 The journey covers a distance that would take around 4 hours and 7 minutes by road, but by choosing to fly, travelers can reach Saint Louis from Chicago in a fraction of that time. 💸 Prices for flights between Saint Louis and Chicago can range from $286 to $1108, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
St. Louis Airport
🚌 If you're traveling from Chicago to Saint Louis by bus, you can catch a direct service departing from Chicago Bus Station and arriving at St Louis Bus Station. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes, with services operating daily. 🛣️ The distance between Chicago and St. Louis is approximately 325 miles, with bus tickets ranging from $35 to $85. Greyhound USA operates the bus services for this route, offering a convenient and affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore the Midwest.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
St Louis Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Chicago Bus Station early to ensure you can find parking and check in at the Greyhound terminal comfortably, as it can get crowded, especially during peak travel hours. Visit greyhound.com for arrival times and ticket details.
• The bus ride from Chicago to St. Louis can take approximately 6 hours 20 minutes, so bring some snacks and download movies or podcasts ahead of time to stay entertained during the journey; consider using services like FlixBus for tickets at prices ranging from $35 - $85.
• Upon arrival at the St. Louis Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the layout and nearby transport options; the Imperial Bus Route provides convenient connections to downtown and local attractions, and you can view transport schedules at metrostl.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Saint Louis.

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The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to St. Louis is by train. Amtrak offers multiple daily departures from Union Station in Chicago to St. Louis, with ticket prices ranging from $11 to $130. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes, providing a cost-effective and comfortable option for travelers on a budget. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure the lowest fares.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Saint Louis is by flying. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with flight times averaging around 3 hours and 23 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, with prices ranging from $80 to $480. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal on your flight.
The distance from Chicago to Saint Louis is approximately 264 miles. This distance is based on the direct route, and the road distance is slightly longer at 298.2 miles. The driving time between the two cities is typically around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from Chicago to Saint Louis without a car is by train. Amtrak offers several daily departures from Chicago Union Station to St. Louis Gateway Station. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes and fares range from $11 to $130, depending on the ticket type and availability. Trains provide a comfortable and convenient option for those looking to travel between these two cities without a car.
The train journey from Chicago Union Station to St. Louis takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes, including any transfers that may be required. There are five daily departures available, providing travelers with flexibility in planning their trip. The train service offers a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two cities, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
The cheapest option to travel from Chicago to Saint Louis is by train, which takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes and costs $11-$130. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes and costs $30-$85. If you prefer a quicker journey, you can fly, which takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes, with prices ranging from $80 to $480. It is recommended to compare prices and schedules to choose the best option for your budget and travel preferences.
There are a variety of accommodations available near Saint Louis. With over 326 hotels in the area, there are options to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in St. Louis start at $41 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you'll be able to find a suitable place to stay near Saint Louis.
Yes, you can drive from Chicago to Saint Louis. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 298 miles. The average drive time is around 4 hours and 58 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is advisable to check for any ongoing road closures or construction before embarking on the journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus that operates between Chicago and Saint Louis. The bus departs from the Chicago Bus Station and arrives at the St Louis Bus Station. The bus service runs once daily and operates every day. The journey duration is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Chicago to Saint Louis at the Chicago Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and depart from this station. It is recommended to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station early to ensure a smooth departure for your journey to St. Louis. Remember to have your ticket or reservation ready before boarding the bus.
The bus from Chicago to Saint Louis arrives at the St. Louis Bus Station. The St. Louis Bus Station is conveniently located in downtown St. Louis, making it easy to access other parts of the city. It is a central hub for several bus routes and offers various amenities for travelers, including ticketing services and nearby parking facilities. Upon arrival, passengers can easily find transportation options to their desired destinations within St. Louis.
Southwest Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Chicago and Saint Louis. Other airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines also operate flights on this route, but Southwest Airlines tends to have the most frequent and affordable options. It is recommended to check with multiple airlines and compare prices and schedules to find the best option for your travel needs.
The fastest way to get from Chicago to Saint Louis by plane is by taking a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to St. Louis Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights for this route, and the prices can range from $80 to $478. Overall, it takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes to reach Saint Louis from Chicago by plane.
The flight from Chicago to Saint Louis typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. This is for a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to St. Louis Airport. However, please note that the flight duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always a good idea to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight times.
Trains from Chicago to Saint Louis arrive at the St. Louis station. This is the final destination for the Amtrak train services operating on this route. The St. Louis station is conveniently located in downtown St. Louis, making it easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can easily continue your journey to other parts of the city or explore nearby attractions.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago and Saint Louis. The train departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at St. Louis. The train service operates five times a day, every day. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes.
To catch the train from Chicago to Saint Louis head to Chicago Union Station. This is where the Amtrak train services depart from. The station is located at 225 S Canal St, Chicago 60606. Make sure to arrive at the station early to allow enough time for check-in and boarding.
The cost of a flight from Chicago to Saint Louis varies depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. On average, prices can range from $80 to $478. It is recommended to check multiple airline websites or use flight comparison websites to find the best deals and compare prices. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can also help you find cheaper flight options.
The cost of a train journey from Chicago to Saint Louis can range from $11 to $130, depending on the specific train, seating class, and time of booking. The cheaper fares are usually for basic economy seats, while higher prices may apply for more comfortable seating options or last-minute bookings. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different train operators to find the best deal for your travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to Saint Louis ranges from $30 to $85. The price may vary depending on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and how far in advance you book. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus companies and book early to secure the best deals.
The cost of driving from Chicago to Saint Louis can vary between $50 to $80, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the approximately 300-mile journey. Additionally, it is important to factor in any toll fees that may be incurred along the way.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Saint Louis