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Chicago, IL, USA to McAllen, TX, USA from $78: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
McAllen, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to McAllen: 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.

$78 - Train, busBest price
2005 kmDistance
6h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to McAllen 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  51m
Estimated price
$198-1012
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, FlixBus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
37h  39m
Estimated price
$78-444
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2005 km
Duration: 6h 51m

See more options

Company
Tornado Bus Company, Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
32h  11m
Estimated price
$270-713
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$282-565
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
7h  4m
Estimated price
$492-785
Company
Amtrak, FlixBus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
38h  13m
Estimated price
$1980-1981
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
24h  9m
Estimated price
$1982-1983
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to McAllen

Journeying from the bustling streets of Chicago to the sun-soaked landscapes of McAllen offers you a striking contrast between the vibrant urban life and the relaxed charm of South Texas.

Best Neighbourhoods in McAllen

McAllen features diverse neighborhoods that cater to various interests and preferences.

Downtown McAllen
• Bustling cultural scene with galleries and theaters.
• Home to delicious dining options and vibrant nightlife.
North McAllen
• Offers upscale shopping experiences and elegant eateries.
• Features beautiful parks for outdoor activities and relaxation.
South McAllen
• Close to nature parks and wildlife refuges.
• Known for family-friendly attractions and community events.

Best Times To Visit McAllen's Attractions

Strategizing your visit to McAllen's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

McAllen Nature Center
Early mornings on weekdays offer peaceful walks and fewer visitors.
La Plaza Mall
Visit on weekdays to enjoy a quieter shopping experience.
Quinta Mazatlan
Weekday afternoons provide a serene atmosphere for exploring gardens.

McAllen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

McAllen boasts a warm climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers. Visiting during the spring and fall months offers the most pleasant weather, enhancing your travel experience and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in McAllen

You must try the authentic Tex-Mex dish, enchiladas verdes, at Lupe’s Tortilla, where the vibrant flavors of tomatillo sauce and fresh herbs stand apart from the deep-dish pizzas of Chicago. The laid-back, colorful atmosphere and use of local ingredients create a unique dining experience that reflects McAllen's rich cultural heritage.

Chicago - McAllen operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to McAllen

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$1989-10124

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Harlingen

Average Duration
5h 24m
Estimated price
$10125-10126
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to McAllen

Average Duration
5h 38m
Estimated price
$1989-10120

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Harlingen

Average Duration
5h 23m
Estimated price
$10123-10122
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Harlingen

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$10121-10122

Plane from Chicago Midway to Harlingen

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$10121-10122
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to San Antonio Amtrak Station

Average Duration
32h 10m
Estimated price
$780-781

Train from Chicago Union Station to San Marcos Amtrak

Average Duration
29h 27m
Estimated price
$4440-4441
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from Chicago to Tornado Bus Co - Laredo, TX

Average Duration
26h 12m
Estimated price
$784-4446
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Laredo Bus Station to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$4447-780
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$4448-1984

Bus from San Marcos to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 46m
Estimated price
$4449-4920
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 956-601-7794

Other from Harlingen to Mcallen

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$4920-4445

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

Traveling between Chicago and McAllen 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 epic road trip from Chicago to McAllen, spanning a picturesque distance of 1453 miles. The journey promises diverse scenery and endless highways to explore. 💰 Prepare for a range of travel costs, with prices for the Chicago to McAllen route by car typically falling between $260 and $390. Plan your budget accordingly for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Average price
$260 - $390
🛫 Traveling from Chicago to McAllen by plane involves a one-stop flight lasting approximately 5 hours and 2 minutes, with airlines like American and United serving this route. 🌆 After departing from Chicago O'Hare Airport, you can expect to reach McAllen Airport in around 6 hours and 51 minutes. The journey offers a mix of comfort and convenience for travelers.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
McAllen Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 2m and has one stopover
🚌 Planning a trip from Chicago to McAllen by bus takes around 32 hours and 11 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $270 to $713. 🛣️ Route options vary from 1,601 to 1,695 miles in distance, with different transfers along the way. You can expect a journey involving Chicago and finally McAllen. 🕒 Depending on the route chosen, your trip could include 2 to 3 transfers and may take anywhere from 1 day and 11 hours to 1 day and 16 hours to reach vibrant McAllen

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to McAllen.

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The distance between Chicago and McAllen is approximately 1246 miles or 1453 miles by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes around 37 hours and 44 minutes by taking a train and then a night bus; 6 hours and 49 minutes by plane; 24 hours and 9 minutes by car; and 31 hours by bus. These travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic conditions and transportation schedules.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to McAllen is by train and night bus, which ranges in cost from $75 to $450. This option takes approximately 37 hours and 44 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, with a flight duration of around 6 hours and 49 minutes, and a cost between $190 and $1100. Both options offer different advantages in terms of cost and time efficiency, allowing travelers to choose according to their needs.
The prices for a bus ticket from Chicago to McAllen range from $268 to $708, depending on the bus company and class of service. It's advisable to book in advance to ensure availability and potentially secure lower fares. Comparing prices and schedules from different bus operators can help find the most affordable option for your journey.
To get from Chicago to McAllen without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1453 miles and it takes about 24 hours and 9 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for this option can vary from $260 to $390 depending on factors such as vehicle type and fuel costs.
To travel from Chicago to McAllen without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 31 hours and fares range from $260 to $750. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing comfortable and convenient transportation for your journey. It is recommended to check the schedules and fares of different bus companies to find the best option for your specific needs.
There is no direct link between Chicago and McAllen by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey involves departing from State & Harrison/Ida B Wells Drive in Chicago, transferring at 35th/Archer Orange Line Station, Chicago, and then continuing the journey to McAllen via Laredo. The total travel time for this bus route is approximately 31 hours, including transfers.
The flight duration between Chicago and McAllen is typically around 5 hours with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between Chicago O'Hare Airport and McAllen Airport. The prices for flights on this route can range from $198 to $1012, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to check with multiple airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near McAllen. There are over 144 hotels available, with prices starting at $62 per night. Some popular choices include the Courtyard by Marriott McAllen Airport, Hilton Garden Inn McAllen, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham McAllen Convention Center. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious stay, there is a hotel to suit every traveler's needs in McAllen.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to McAllen