Chicago, IL, USA to Waco, TX, USA from $78: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$78 - Train, BusBest price

1434 kmDistance

5h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from Chicago to Waco takes you from the bustling metropolis known for its skyscrapers and vibrant culture to a charming Texas city full of rich history and southern hospitality.

Best Neighborhoods in Waco

Waco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe and attractions.

Downtown Waco

• Home to the famous Magnolia Market.

• Vibrant dining and art scene nearby.

Brazos Heights

• Offers scenic views of the Brazos River.

• Known for its historic homes and charm.

Midway

• Family-friendly with great schools and parks.

• Close to shopping and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Waco's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Waco.

Magnolia Market

Mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Visit early on Saturdays to enjoy a quieter exploration experience.

Dr Pepper Museum

Afternoons during weekdays provide a less hectic atmosphere and shorter lines.

Waco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Waco experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather helps shape your travel plans, ensuring you enjoy outdoor activities in comfortable conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Waco

For a taste of Texas, try the brisket at The Salt Lick BBQ, where smoky flavors and tender meat showcase the region's barbecue heritage. This experience contrasts with Chicago's deep-dish pizza scene, offering a laid-back, communal atmosphere infused with local ingredients that highlight Waco’s culinary roots.

Chicago - Waco operators

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

Plane

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas

Average Duration

2h 26m

Estimated price

$8826-8827

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas via St. Louis

Average Duration

3h 57m

Estimated price

$8826-8827

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas via Kansas City

Average Duration

4h 12m

Estimated price

$8826-8827

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas via Nashville

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$8826-8827

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas via Tulsa

Average Duration

4h 25m

Estimated price

$8826-8827

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

2h 39m

Estimated price

$785-786

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth via Bloomington

Average Duration

4h 18m

Estimated price

$785-786

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth via St. Louis

Average Duration

4h 23m

Estimated price

$785-786

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth via Kansas City

Average Duration

4h 24m

Estimated price

$785-786

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Austin

Average Duration

2h 58m

Estimated price

$785-787

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

2h 44m

Estimated price

$788-789

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Austin

Average Duration

3h 2m

Estimated price

$785-8825

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

2h 37m

Estimated price

$3440-787

Plane from Chicago Midway to Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

2h 53m

Estimated price

$3441-3442

Plane from Chicago Midway to Houston

Average Duration

2h 48m

Estimated price

$3443-8825

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Dallas

Average Duration

21h 45m

Estimated price

$3441-3446

Bus

Contact phone

800 881 8181

Website

turimex.com

Bus from Dallas to Waco

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2201-2202

Contact phone

+1 888 358 6762

Website

tornadobus.com

Bus from Chicago to Dallas Jefferson

Average Duration

18h 11m

Estimated price

$2207-22060

Bus from Dallas Jefferson to Waco

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$2205-2202

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Train Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration

5h 50m

Estimated price

$2201-3440

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Dallas Bus Station

Average Duration

16h 40m

Estimated price

$3440-180

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to Waco Bus Stop

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$8322-2206

Contact phone

+52 800 890 6821

Website

greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to Waco Bus Station

Average Duration

2h 24m

Estimated price

$8323-2201

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

Traveling between Chicago and Waco 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 the bustling city of Chicago to the charming town of Waco. Drive 1025 miles through diverse landscapes and captivating regions. 💸 Experience a budget-friendly journey as the prices for traveling from Chicago to Waco by car range from $180 to $270. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. 🌟 Arrive in Waco after approximately 17 hours and 2 minutes of driving. Explore the vibrant sights, delicious eateries, and rich culture this destination has to offer.

Average price

$180 - $270

🛫 Flying from Chicago to Waco involves taking a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Dallas Airport, a journey that typically lasts 2 hours and 25 minutes.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

Dallas Airport

🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from the bustling city of Chicago to the charming town of Waco! While there is no direct route, you can enjoy an approximately 22-hour trip with transfers along the way. 🛤️ Relax and take in the sights as you depart from State & Harrison/Ida B Wells Drive in Chicago, passing through 35th/Archer Orange Line Station before reaching Dallas Jefferson. From there, a connecting bus will take you to your final destination in Waco. 💸 Prices for the bus trip from Chicago to Waco can range from $188 to $502. Prepare for a long but rewarding adventure, experiencing the diverse landscapes as you travel from the Midwest to the heart of Texas by road.

Departure Point

Chicago Train Station

Arrival Point

Waco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Waco.

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The distance between Chicago and Waco is approximately 891 miles or 1025 miles by road. When traveling from Chicago to Waco, the typical travel time by flying from Chicago Midway to Dallas and then taking a bus is around 6 hours and 19 minutes. Alternatively, if you choose to drive, it takes about 17 hours and 2 minutes to travel from Waco to Chicago by car. Lastly, taking a bus from Chicago to Waco typically takes around 22 hours and 40 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Chicago to Waco is to fly and then take a bus. This option costs between $40 and $270 and takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes. Alternatively, the quickest option is also to fly and then take a bus, which costs between $190 and $950 and takes about 6 hours and 19 minutes. Flying and taking a bus offers a faster travel time compared to other modes of transportation such as driving or taking a longer bus ride.

The prices for a bus ticket between Waco and Chicago can vary depending on the specific bus company and the type of ticket purchased. On average, the prices range from $188 to $502. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel needs.

To get from Chicago to Waco without using public transportation, you can drive the 1025-mile distance. It takes approximately 17 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Chicago to Waco. The prices for renting a car and driving from Chicago to Waco vary, ranging from $180 to $270 depending on the rental agency and vehicle type.

To travel from Chicago to Waco without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 40 minutes and can cost anywhere between $180 to $500. It is a long journey, but traveling by bus allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. Make sure to check bus schedules and prices in advance to plan your trip accordingly.

No, there is no direct link between Chicago and Waco. The most convenient option is to take a flight from Chicago Midway to Dallas and then a bus from Dallas to Waco, which takes approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes. Another option is to drive by car, which takes around 17 hours and 2 minutes. If you prefer taking a bus, it will take approximately 22 hours and 40 minutes, with transfers.

The flight from Chicago to Waco typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Dallas Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but typically, flights from Chicago to Waco can range from $200 to $400 for a round-trip ticket. It's recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Waco. With over 156 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at $42, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly motel, Waco has a range of accommodations to meet your needs.

Chicago, IL, USA to Waco, TX, USA from $78: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Waco

Best Neighborhoods in Waco

Best Times To Visit Waco's Attractions

Waco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Waco

Chicago - Waco operators

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

Frequently asked questions

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