Chicago, IL, USA to Rochester, NY, USA from $24: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$24 by trainBest price

837 kmDistance

3h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Traveling from Chicago, a bustling metropolis filled with vibrant arts and nightlife, to Rochester, known for its charming pink-cobblestone streets and serene parks, offers a refreshing change of pace that highlights the diverse experiences of the Midwest.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rochester

Rochester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Park Avenue

• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

• Art galleries and boutique shops abound.

Corn Hill

• Historic architecture with a picturesque waterfront.

• Hosts the popular Corn Hill Arts Festival.

Village Gate

• Unique shopping and entertainment complex.

• Great local eateries and breweries.

Best Times To Visit Rochester's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Rochester.

Strong Museum of Play

Visit on weekdays during the school year to enjoy fewer crowds.

Highland Park

Early mornings in spring reveal stunning blooms and tranquility.

Rochester Public Market

Arrive early on Saturdays for the freshest produce and local vendors.

Rochester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rochester experiences a humid continental climate, featuring cold winters and warm summers, with the best times to visit typically in late spring and early fall when the temperatures are mild. Weather can influence your travel itinerary and outdoor activities, so packing accordingly for varying conditions is wise.

Dining Recommendation

Try the famous garbage plate at Nick Tahou Hots, a dish that layers macaroni salad, home fries, and your choice of meats, served with a zesty sauce, contrasting sharply with Chicago's deep-dish pizza. This robust local favorite reflects Rochester's hearty comfort food culture, offering a casual yet vibrant atmosphere that stands apart from the upscale dining experiences typically found in Chicago.

Chicago - Rochester operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Rochester (ROC)

Average Duration

1h 34m

Estimated price

$787-788

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Rochester (ROC) via Baltimore

Average Duration

3h 57m

Estimated price

$786-789

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Rochester (ROC)

Average Duration

1h 49m

Estimated price

$110-7563

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Rochester (ROC) via Washington Dulles

Average Duration

4h 24m

Estimated price

$110-7563

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF)

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$110-784

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Rochester (ROC)

Average Duration

1h 43m

Estimated price

$110-7564

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Rochester (ROC) via Reagan Washington

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

$110-7564

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF)

Average Duration

1h 33m

Estimated price

$7561-7565

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Rochester (ROC) via Detroit

Average Duration

4h 6m

Estimated price

$7566-7567

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF) via Detroit

Average Duration

3h 30m

Estimated price

$787-7568

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Rochester

Average Duration

11h 30m

Estimated price

$24-200

Train from Buffalo to Rochester

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$7569-240

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1-844-800-6828

Website

ourbus.com

Bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY

Average Duration

11h 45m

Estimated price

$2005-247

Contact phone

+1 800-858-8555

Website

trailways.com

Bus from Ithaca to Rochester

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$24-2002

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

Traveling between Chicago and Rochester 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 Rochester covering a distance of 604 miles in approximately 10 hours and 9 minutes. Experience the changing landscapes as you journey through multiple states. 💸 The cost of traveling from Chicago to Rochester by car ranges from $110 to $160, providing budget-friendly options for those seeking a diverse and economical travel experience. Plan your trip wisely to optimize both your time and expenses.

Average price

$110 - $160

🌆 Sit back and relax during the approximately 11.5-hour train ride through the picturesque landscapes between these bustling cities. Let Amtrak guide you on this smooth and comfortable journey from Chicago to Rochester. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Chicago and Rochester range from $24 to $200, offering options to suit different budgets and preferences. Experience the charm of train travel and arrive in Rochester ready to explore all it has to offer.

Departure Point

Chicago Union Station

Arrival Point

Rochester station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services for your train trip from Chicago to Rochester typically include snack and beverage carts that provide coffee, tea, and a selection of packaged snacks. Depending on the time of day, you may also find options for light meals. Make sure to check Amtrak's website for any updates on catering services as offerings can vary.

• The seating options available for your trip generally include Business Class and Economy Class. Business Class offers more spacious seating with additional legroom, power outlets, and may include complimentary refreshments. Economy Class is more budget-friendly but provides comfortable seating too. Check Amtrak's website to compare fares and availability: amtrak.com

• Upon arrival in Rochester, you can expect to find luggage storage services at the station, which allows you to explore the city without your bags. Restrooms are available, but there are no showers. To navigate the city center quickly, the fastest way is via the RTS bus service; take the #1 bus, which runs frequently and connects the station directly to downtown Rochester. More details can be found at rgrta.com

🛫 Flying from Chicago to Rochester is convenient with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 30 minutes. Southwest Airlines provides a comfortable option for this route from Chicago Midway Airport to Rochester Airport. ✈️ The total travel time between these two cities by plane is approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. This efficient way of traveling allows you to easily reach your destination in a reasonable amount of time. 💸 Flight prices between Rochester and Chicago can range from $78 to $756, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets. Whether for business or leisure, flying is a quick and accessible choice for this journey.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

Rochester Airport

🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus route from Chicago to Rochester, travelers can still reach their destination by taking a route that includes transfers at Sage Hall and Ithaca. The journey, which involves transfers, typically lasts around 14 hours and 57 minutes. 🚌 When embarking on this bus journey from Chicago to Rochester, passengers will find themselves departing from the Chicago station on buses operated by OurBus. The final destination in Rochester is the Rochester station serviced by Trailways buses. The price range for these bus services varies between $33 and $138. 🚌 Travelers opting for the bus route between Rochester and Chicago can expect an overnight journey that offers a cost-effective and convenient way to reach their destination. Despite the transfer points along the way, the journey time remains consistent at 14 hours and 57 minutes from Chicago to Rochester by bus.

Departure Point

Chicago, IL station

Arrival Point

Rochester station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Rochester.

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The distance between Chicago and Rochester is 520 miles, with a road distance of 604 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes to reach Rochester from Chicago by train, 5 hours and 51 minutes by flying from Chicago Midway to Buffalo and then taking a train, and 3 hours and 47 minutes by plane directly. By car, it takes about 10 hours and 9 minutes to reach Chicago from Rochester, while taking a bus would take approximately 14 hours and 57 minutes to travel from Chicago to Rochester.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Rochester is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $24 to $200. Although it is not the fastest option, taking 11 hours and 30 minutes, it allows you to save money while still reaching your destination. If time is more important, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 47 minutes. However, the cost for a flight ranges from $75 to $800, so it may be more expensive compared to taking the train.

The prices of a train ticket between Chicago and Rochester range from $24 to $200, depending on factors such as the class of travel and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. For a bus journey from Rochester to Chicago, prices can vary from $33 to $138, with options available for different seating arrangements and amenities. It is recommended to check with specific train and bus operators for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To travel from Chicago to Rochester without using public transportation, you can drive the 604-mile distance. The average driving time is around 10 hours and 9 minutes. It is important to note that the prices for this journey by car can range from $110 to $160, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Chicago to Rochester without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $24 and $200. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes and costs $75 to $800. If you have more time and prefer a cost-effective option, you can take a bus, which takes about 14 hours and 57 minutes and costs $30 to $140.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Rochester. The train services operated by Amtrak depart from Chicago Union Station twice daily and arrive at Rochester station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities. Passengers would need to transfer and take a bus from Chicago to Ithaca, and then another bus from Ithaca to Rochester, with a total travel time of about 14 hours and 57 minutes.

The flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Rochester Airport typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary greatly, ranging from $78 to $756. It is important to note that prices may fluctuate depending on the time of year, airline, and booking time. It is advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals for your specific travel dates.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Rochester. With over 117 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of options to fit your budget. Prices start at $44 per night, ensuring there are options for both budget travelers and those looking for a more luxurious stay. Whether you prefer staying in a hotel downtown or in the outskirts of the city, you'll be able to find a comfortable place to stay near Rochester.

Chicago, IL, USA to Rochester, NY, USA from $24: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Rochester

Best Neighbourhoods in Rochester

Best Times To Visit Rochester's Attractions

Rochester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Chicago - Rochester operators

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

Useful tips for train travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Rochester

Popular routes