Chicago, IL, USA to Badlands National Park, SD, USA from $95: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to Badlands National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$95 - Train, BusBest price

1345.7 kmDistance

5h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Badlands National Park 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 Badlands National Park

The journey from Chicago's bustling urban landscape to the breathtaking vistas of Badlands National Park offers a striking contrast between vibrant city life and the serene beauty of rugged terrain.

Best Neighborhoods in Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park features distinct areas that enhance your experience.

Panorama Point

• Stunning views of layered rock formations

• Ideal spot for sunset photography

Saddle Pass Trail

• Offers challenging hikes with rewarding vistas

• Scenic overlooks along the trail

Badlands Loop Road

• Scenic drive with multiple lookout points

• Connects major park attractions

Best Times To Visit Badlands National Park's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your experience in Badlands National Park.

Badlands Loop Road

Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer travelers and stunning light.

Fossil Exhibit Trail

Weekdays in spring and fall offer tranquil exploration of exhibits.

Wall Drug Store

Mornings are best for avoiding crowds at this iconic pit stop.

Badlands National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

The climate in Badlands National Park features hot summers and cold winters, with spring and fall providing mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Your experience can greatly vary with the seasons, making late spring and early fall the best times to visit for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Badlands National Park

Try the bison burger at the Cedar Pass Lodge, where the flavors of locally sourced bison create a truly authentic taste of the region. This dining experience contrasts sharply with Chicago's diverse culinary scene, offering a rustic atmosphere surrounded by stunning natural vistas that enhance the enjoyment of each bite.

Chicago - Badlands National Park operators

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

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Rapid City

Average Duration

2h 28m

Estimated price

$982-983

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Rapid City via Denver

Average Duration

5h 14m

Estimated price

$982-983

Plane from Chicago Midway to Rapid City via Denver

Average Duration

5h 4m

Estimated price

$984-983

Plane from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Denver

Average Duration

5h 37m

Estimated price

$985-986

Plane from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

5h 58m

Estimated price

$985-986

Plane from South Bend to Rapid City via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

5h 53m

Estimated price

$987-988

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Rapid City via Minneapolis

Average Duration

4h 56m

Estimated price

$989-3550

Plane from Chicago Midway to Rapid City via Minneapolis

Average Duration

5h 32m

Estimated price

$3551-986

Plane from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Minneapolis

Average Duration

4h 54m

Estimated price

$3552-3553

Plane from South Bend to Rapid City via Minneapolis

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

$3554-983

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Rapid City

Average Duration

2h 24m

Estimated price

$982-988

Plane from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

5h 9m

Estimated price

$985-988

Plane from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

6h 30m

Estimated price

$985-988

Plane from South Bend to Rapid City via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

6h 20m

Estimated price

$3555-3556

Plane from South Bend to Rapid City via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

6h 31m

Estimated price

$3554-988

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$3557-3558

Train from Chicago Union Station to St. Paul-Minneapolis

Average Duration

7h 51m

Estimated price

$1168-1169

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Minneapolis Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 10m

Estimated price

$1162-110

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Minneapolis Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 10m

Estimated price

$35575-3148

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Depot to Wall, SD

Average Duration

10h 50m

Estimated price

$31470-3144

Contact phone

+1 219-926-5744

Website

mysouthshoreline.com

Bus from Van Buren St. to South Bend Airport

Average Duration

2h 35m

Estimated price

$3146-1163

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

coachusa.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$3149-3143

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Badlands National Park.

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The distance between Chicago and Badlands National Park is approximately 650 miles. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By car, the journey typically takes around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, flying from Chicago to Rapid City, the nearest airport to Badlands National Park, would take around 2-2.5 hours, not including layovers and travel to the park from the airport.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Badlands National Park would be to fly from Chicago to Rapid City Regional Airport. By taking a direct flight, you can save time and potentially find affordable airfare, especially if you book in advance. Once you arrive in Rapid City, you can then rent a car to drive to Badlands National Park, which offers flexibility and convenience for exploring the park and surrounding areas.

The prices for traveling from Chicago to Badlands National Park can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Flight prices from Chicago to Rapid City Regional Airport can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on the time of booking and availability. Renting a car from the airport to drive to Badlands National Park can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental company. Overall, transportation costs to Badlands National Park can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on preferences and travel arrangements.

To travel from Chicago to Badlands National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent a car for the journey. The most common route would be to take I-90 West from Chicago all the way to the Badlands. The drive typically takes around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, but offers the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore different areas. Remember to plan for gas, meals, and accommodations if needed during the road trip.

To travel from Chicago to Badlands National Park without a car, you can consider flying to Rapid City Regional Airport, which is the closest airport to the park. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use rideshare options to reach the park, which is about a 1.5-2 hour drive away. Additionally, some tour companies may offer guided transportation options from Rapid City to Badlands National Park for a more convenient travel experience.

There is no direct link between Chicago and Badlands National Park as they are not connected by a direct train or bus route. The most common way to travel between the two locations is by flying from Chicago to Rapid City, the nearest airport to Badlands National Park. From there, travelers can rent a car or use other transportation options to reach the park, such as shuttle services or organized tours.

The flight time between Chicago and Rapid City the nearest airport to Badlands National Park, is typically around 2-2.5 hours. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but fares generally range from $200 to $400 round trip per person. It's recommended to check multiple airlines and booking websites to find the best deals for flights between these two destinations.

There are several accommodation options near Badlands National Park catering to different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from lodges, campgrounds, cabins, or hotels in nearby towns such as Wall, Interior, or Kadoka. Popular choices include Cedar Pass Lodge within the park, Badlands Interior Motel in Interior, or Budget Host Sundowner Motor Inn in Kadoka. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred lodging near Badlands National Park.

Chicago, IL, USA to Badlands National Park, SD, USA from $95: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Chicago to Badlands National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Badlands National Park

Best Neighborhoods in Badlands National Park

Best Times To Visit Badlands National Park's Attractions

Badlands National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Badlands National Park

Chicago - Badlands National Park operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Badlands National Park

Popular routes