Chicago, IL, USA to Princeton, NJ, USA from $44: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$44 by trainBest price

1106 kmDistance

5h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Traveling from Chicago, a bustling metropolis filled with urban energy and iconic architecture, to Princeton, a charming town known for its historic university and picturesque landscapes, offers you a stark contrast in experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Princeton

Princeton boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinctive charm and character.

Princeton University Campus

• Home to beautiful historic buildings.

• Offers engaging cultural events year-round.

Witherspoon-Jackson

• Rich in African American history.

• Vibrant community with local eateries and shops.

Little Brook

• Scenic residential area with spacious homes.

• Quiet, perfect for peaceful strolls and parks.

Best Times To Visit Princeton's Attractions

Timing your visit to Princeton's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Princeton University Art Museum

Visit on weekdays to enjoy quieter galleries and more personal exploration.

Princeton Battlefield State Park

Early mornings or late afternoons offer a peaceful atmosphere and stunning light.

McCarter Theatre Center

Attend matinee performances during the week for a more intimate setting.

Princeton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Princeton experiences a temperate climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall ideal for visiting due to mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Weather can impact your travel experience, so packing accordingly ensures you enjoy all that this charming town has to offer.

Dining Recommendation in Princeton

Try the local favorite, Princeton's Blue Point Grill, where the fresh seafood dishes celebrate the coastal flavors of the Northeast, a stark contrast to Chicago's renowned deep-dish pizza. The cozy atmosphere, infused with local charm and an emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients, enhances the dining experience, making it a delightful escape from urban dining.

Chicago - Princeton operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Newark (EWR)

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$2708-2709

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Newark (EWR)

Average Duration

2h 12m

Estimated price

$445-2703

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to New York La Guardia (LGA)

Average Duration

2h 9m

Estimated price

$440-441

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Philadelphia (PHL)

Average Duration

Estimated price

$442-443

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Newark (EWR)

Average Duration

3h 57m

Estimated price

$2702-447

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to New York La Guardia (LGA)

Average Duration

2h 1m

Estimated price

$2708-27060

Website

spirit.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to New York La Guardia (LGA)

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$2706-4984

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Philadelphia (PHL)

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$2702-270

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Philadelphia (PHL)

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$2702-270

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to New York Penn Station

Average Duration

20h 12m

Estimated price

$2706-737390

Train from 30th Street Station to Trenton

Average Duration

28m

Estimated price

$7375-737300

Train from New York Penn Station to Princeton Junction

Average Duration

52m

Estimated price

$7370-2701

Contact phone

+1 973-275-5555

Website

njtransit.com

Train from Newark Airport Railroad Station to Princeton Jct.

Average Duration

49m

Estimated price

$4985-4986

Train from 30th Street Station to Trenton

Average Duration

28m

Estimated price

$7375-737300

Bus Show bus routes

Website

palmlandlines.com

Bus from Chicago IL to Indianapolis IN

Average Duration

3h 20m

Estimated price

$4980-521

Bus from Indianapolis IN to New York

Average Duration

11h

Estimated price

$2704-0

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Baltimore Downtown Bus Station

Average Duration

17h 50m

Estimated price

$7378-2708

Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Philadelphia

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$73761-2702

Contact phone

+1 610-868-6001

Website

transbridgelines.com

Bus from Lehigh Valley International Airport Trans Bridge Bus Stop to Newark Airport Terminal B

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$520-2706

Contact phone

+1 (732) 249-1100

Website

web.coachusa.com

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Palmer Square, Princeton

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$520-73730

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

Traveling between Chicago and Princeton 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 Princeton, covering a distance of 795 miles. The journey promises around 13 hours of driving time through diverse landscapes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing for the Chicago to Princeton route, with costs ranging between $140 to $210 for a car trip. Plan your budget accordingly for a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Average price

$140 - $210

🚆 Starting at Chicago Union Station, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey to Princeton although there is no direct route available. The trip involves transfers at New York Penn Station and Princeton Jct., totaling approximately 22 hours. 🚉 Passengers can enjoy the convenience of Amtrak-operated services departing from Chicago Union Station. The journey culminates at Princeton Jct. station, courtesy of NJ Transit. A ticket for this route can cost anywhere between $44 to $498. 🌆 Despite the duration of 22 hours, the train ride from Chicago to Princeton offers a unique travel experience with glimpses of various landscapes along the way. Whether for sightseeing or simple relaxation, this trip is sure to be memorable for passengers seeking a leisurely mode of transportation to their destination.

Departure Point

Chicago Union Station

Arrival Point

Princeton Jct. station

🛫 Flying from Chicago to Princeton is a convenient and efficient way to travel. The quickest direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Newark Airport takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes. You can choose from airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines for this route.

Departure Point

Chicago O'Hare Airport

Arrival Point

Newark Airport

🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Princeton by bus is a scenic journey that takes approximately 19 hours and 8 minutes. 🌆🚌 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Princeton and Chicago typically range from $193 to $220, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. 🎫💵

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Princeton.

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The distance between Chicago and Princeton is approximately 687 miles. Travel times can vary by transportation mode: it takes 22 hours and 1 minute to reach Princeton from Chicago by train, 5 hours and 29 minutes by first flying from Chicago O'Hare to Newark and then taking a train, 13 hours and 1 minute by car from Princeton to Chicago, and 19 hours and 8 minutes by bus from Chicago to Princeton. Consider these travel times when planning your journey between these two cities.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Princeton is by train, with prices ranging from $45 to $320 and a total travel time of 27 hours and 41 minutes. However, for those seeking a more time-efficient journey, the fastest option is to fly from Chicago to Newark and then take a train to Princeton, which takes 5 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $130 and $270. Consider your budget and time constraints when choosing the best transportation option for your trip.

The prices for traveling from Chicago to Princeton vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train ride, the fares range from $44 to $498, while bus tickets range from $193 to $220. It's important to check for any ongoing promotions or discounts to potentially save on your travel expenses. Comparing different options can help you find the most cost-effective way to reach Princeton from Chicago.

To travel from Chicago to Princeton without public transportation, you can drive the approximately 795-mile distance, which would take around 13 hours and 1 minute. The cost of this road trip typically ranges from $140 to $210 for fuel and potential tolls. Driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore different cities and landmarks during your journey.

To travel from Chicago to Princeton without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Indianapolis. This journey typically takes about 19 hours and costs between $190 to $220. You can look for bus companies that offer this route and book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and times. Make sure to check the bus schedule and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

There is no direct train link between Chicago and Princeton. Travelers would need to take a train from Chicago Union Station to New York Penn Station, then transfer to another train to reach Princeton Junction. The journey with transfers typically takes around 22 hours. While there is no direct route, passengers can still reach Princeton by train with a bit of planning for the connections.

The quickest flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Newark Airport typically takes 2 hours and 4 minutes. The average cost for this direct flight can vary depending on the time of booking, airline, and other factors but can range from $150 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It is advisable to check current prices and availability before making a booking for the most accurate information on flight times and costs.

There are over 119 hotels available in Princeton offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for accommodation in the area start at $52 per night, making it a relatively affordable choice for visitors. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, travelers can find a variety of places to stay near Princeton to suit their needs and preferences. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your stay.