Chicago, IL, USA to Erie, PA, USA from $18: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$18 by trainBest price

721 kmDistance

6h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Your journey from Chicago to Erie showcases a vibrant city life filled with iconic architecture and bustling streets, transitioning into Erie’s serene waterfront, rich history, and inviting outdoor activities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Erie

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

Downtown Erie

• Home to Erie’s cultural attractions and dining options.

• Great access to the waterfront and parks.

Presque Isle State Park

• Stunning beaches and trails for outdoor adventures.

• Ideal for bird watching and nature photography.

West Erie

• Quaint shops and local eateries to explore.

• Close to Erie’s historical sites and museums.

Best Times To Visit Erie's Attractions

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

Presque Isle State Park

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds while hiking or relaxing on the beach.

Erie Maritime Museum

Late afternoon visits provide a quieter atmosphere with a chance to explore exhibits without the rush.

Lake Erie Wine Country

Plan your trip during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Erie Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Erie experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making late spring and early fall ideal for comfortable outdoor activities. Understanding the weather trends helps you pack appropriately and plan your adventures to enjoy Erie’s attractions fully.

Dining Recommendation in Erie

Try the fresh perch tacos at The Brewerie at Union Station, where the flavors of Lake Erie highlight local ingredients in a casual setting. This experience contrasts with Chicago’s bustling fine dining scene, offering a relaxed atmosphere that celebrates Erie’s fishing heritage and regional tastes.

Chicago - Erie operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Erie, 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 Erie Amtrak Station

Average Duration

8h 48m

Estimated price

$18-160

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Cleveland Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 40m

Estimated price

$13620-801

Bus from Cleveland Bus Station to Erie, PA

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$803-1601

Contact phone

+1 888-378-3823

Website

https://baronsbus.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Cleveland Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 30m

Estimated price

$467-806

Bus from Cleveland, OH to Erie, PA

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$804-1601

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Chicago Midway to Cleveland

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$1602-1600

Plane from Chicago Midway to Buffalo

Average Duration

1h 23m

Estimated price

$1606-1607

Plane from Chicago Midway to Pittsburgh

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

$1608-1609

Website

https://www.united.com/

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Cleveland

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$1603-1604

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Buffalo

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$1605-800

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Pittsburgh

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

$1605-16010

Website

https://www.aa.com/

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Cleveland

Average Duration

1h 21m

Estimated price

$460-461

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Buffalo

Average Duration

1h 44m

Estimated price

$1606-462

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Pittsburgh

Average Duration

1h 34m

Estimated price

$1605-461

Website

https://www.delta.com/

Plane from Chicago Midway to Cleveland via Detroit

Average Duration

2h 57m

Estimated price

$120-1604

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Buffalo via Detroit

Average Duration

3h 32m

Estimated price

$1605-463

Plane from Chicago Midway to Pittsburgh via Detroit

Average Duration

3h 14m

Estimated price

$1605-464

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Pittsburgh via Detroit

Average Duration

3h 23m

Estimated price

$1603-465

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

Traveling between Chicago and Erie 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 an exciting road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the charming town of Erie spanning a scenic driving distance of 448 miles. 💸 Experience the flexibility of choosing between budget-friendly options ranging from $80 to $120 for your journey from Chicago to Erie by car. ⏱️ Settle in for a leisurely 7 hours and 27 minutes drive through picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities as you make your way from the heart of Illinois to the shores of Pennsylvania.

Average price

$80 - $120

🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Erie by train is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs twice daily from Chicago Union Station and arrives at Erie Amtrak Station, taking approximately 8 hours and 48 minutes. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 435 miles, offering passengers a relaxing way to admire the Midwestern landscapes. Prices for the train ticket vary between $18 and $160, providing options for different budgets. 🚂 For those seeking a longer but more budget-friendly option, a route with a transfer is available, taking a total of 11 hours and 48 minutes. This alternative includes a bus transfer at Cleveland, adding a unique twist to the travel experience while still reaching the destination in Erie.

Departure Point

Chicago Union Station

Arrival Point

Erie Amtrak Station

🛫 Flying from Chicago Midway Airport to Cleveland Airport is the quickest way to reach Erie with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines provide convenient flight options for this route. 🛄 Upon arriving at Cleveland Airport, travelers can either rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive to Erie or opt to take a bus or a shuttle service. Rental cars are readily available at the airport for added flexibility in exploring the region.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

Cleveland Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Book a direct flight with Southwest or Delta from Chicago Midway Airport to Cleveland Airport; the flight duration is only about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it one of the quickest routes available.

• Upon arrival at Cleveland Airport, be prepared for a bit of a transit; Erie is approximately 90 miles away, and consider using a rideshare service or pre-arranging a shuttle with local providers to ensure a smooth journey as public transport can be limited.

• Taxi fare from Cleveland Airport to Erie averages around $150-$200, so budgeting for this expense is essential; for a more economical option, check Ryan Air or Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) for their schedules and fares at ridecumta.com

🚌 When traveling from Chicago to Erie by bus, you will need to make transfers along the way. The journey typically takes around 10 hours and 20 minutes, with services operated by Greyhound USA and Barons Bus. 🌉 The distance between Chicago and Erie is approximately 470 miles, with various route options available. Some routes may involve transfers in cities like Cleveland, OH and Buffalo, NY, adding to the total travel time. 💸 Bus ticket prices can vary from $46 to $136 for the trip between Chicago and Erie, providing affordability and convenience for travelers looking to explore the route by bus.

Departure Point

Chicago Bus Station

Arrival Point

Erie, PA station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Erie.

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The distance between Chicago and Erie is approximately 390 miles, with a road distance of 448 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 48 minutes to travel from Chicago to Erie. By flying from Chicago Midway to Cleveland and then taking a train, the travel time is about 6 hours. Driving by car takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes from Erie to Chicago, while taking a bus takes around 10 hours and 15 minutes to reach Erie from Chicago.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Erie is by train, with tickets ranging from $18 to $160. While it takes around 8 hours and 48 minutes, it offers a budget-friendly choice. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to fly from Chicago Midway to Cleveland and then take a train to Erie, which takes approximately 6 hours. This option costs between $55 and $370. Ultimately, the choice between time and cost is up to the individual traveler.

The prices for trains between Chicago and Erie range from $18 to $160, depending on the type of ticket and the time of travel. Similarly, bus fares between Erie and Chicago can vary from $46 to $136. It is advisable to check specific dates and times to get accurate pricing information.

To travel from Chicago to Erie without public transportation, you can drive the 448-mile distance, which takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes. The road trip offers the flexibility to take breaks, explore scenic routes, and enjoy the journey at your own pace. Keep in mind that the cost of driving, including gas and tolls, can vary from $80 to $120, depending on factors such as vehicle fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Chicago to Erie is by train. The train journey takes about 8 hours and 48 minutes and the ticket prices range from $18 to $160, depending on the class and availability. The train offers a comfortable and convenient option for reaching Erie without having to worry about driving or navigating.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Erie. The train services depart twice daily from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Erie Amtrak Station. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 48 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service from Chicago to Erie. Passengers would have to take a bus from Chicago Bus Station to Cleveland, OH, and then transfer to another bus to Erie. The bus journey, including transfers, takes approximately 10 hours and 15 minutes.

The flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Cleveland Airport typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. However, it is important to note that this is just the flight time and does not include any additional time spent on boarding, security checks, or waiting at the airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

There are plenty of options for accommodations near Erie with more than 61 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $44 per night. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury stay, there is a wide range of choices available to suit various preferences and budgets.

Chicago, IL, USA to Erie, PA, USA from $18: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Erie

Best Neighbourhoods in Erie

Best Times To Visit Erie's Attractions

Erie Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Erie

Chicago - Erie operators

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

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Erie

Popular routes