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Chicago, IL, USA to Salt Lake City, UT, USA from $65: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Salt Lake City, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Salt Lake City: 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.

$65 by trainBest price
2036 kmDistance
5h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Salt Lake City 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
5h  31m
Estimated price
$88-558
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
34h  5m
Estimated price
$65-440
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2036 km
Duration: 5h 31m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
$102-474
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$104-408
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
10h  26m
Estimated price
$237-880
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
38h  20m
Estimated price
$881-882
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
21h  25m
Estimated price
$883-884
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Traveling From Chicago to Salt Lake City

Traveling from Chicago to Salt Lake City offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling city life and rich culture of the Windy City and the serene, breathtaking landscapes of the mountainous West.

Best Neighbourhoods in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences and attractions for visitors.

Sugar House
• Trendy shops and cafes abound.
• Beautiful parks for outdoor activities.
Downtown Salt Lake City
• Vibrant dining and nightlife options.
• Close to cultural attractions like the Salt Palace.
Avenues
• Historic homes with stunning views.
• Charming streets perfect for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Salt Lake City's Attractions

Maximize your experience by visiting Salt Lake City's attractions at ideal times.

Temple Square
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter moments.
Natural History Museum of Utah
Weekdays and non-holiday periods offer a less crowded experience.
Red Butte Garden
Spring and fall mornings are perfect for fewer crowds and beautiful blooms.

Salt Lake City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Salt Lake City experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, featuring hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as milder temperatures and pleasant conditions enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Salt Lake City

Try the Fry Sauce Burger at Crown Burgers, where the delightful pairing of juicy beef, tangy fry sauce, and locally sourced toppings offers a unique twist on traditional burger fare. This dining experience highlights the region's love for vibrant flavors and local ingredients, providing a stark contrast to the deep-dish pizza and hot dog culture of Chicago.

Chicago - Salt Lake City operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
3h 46m
Estimated price
$888-889

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Salt Lake City via Denver

Average Duration
5h 24m
Estimated price
$888-889
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
$5585-5589

Plane from Chicago Midway to Salt Lake City via Denver

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$5585-5589

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Salt Lake City via Denver

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$650-651
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Salt Lake City via Minneapolis

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
$887-889

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
$5583-440

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Salt Lake City via Minneapolis

Average Duration
5h 24m
Estimated price
$5584-440
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
34h 5m
Estimated price
$65-440
Contact phone
+1 219-926-5744
Website
mysouthshoreline.com

Train from Van Buren St. to South Bend Airport

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$4407-4400
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
38h 20m
Estimated price
$881-882

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$6545-885

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Green River

Average Duration
26h 5m
Estimated price
$6570-883

Bus from Green River to Downtown Salt Lake

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$4409-6560
Contact phone
+1 208-656-8824
Website
saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Green River to Downtown Salt Lake

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$4409-6560

Chicago to Salt Lake City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City, spanning 1405 miles of diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. Be prepared for a journey filled with scenic vistas and memorable pit stops. 💰 The cost of driving from Chicago to Salt Lake City ranges from $250 to $370, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking adventure on the open road. With proper planning, you can enjoy a cost-effective yet rewarding drive through the heart of America. ⏱️ Set aside approximately 21 hours and 25 minutes for this road trip, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of the changing scenery and make the most of your unforgettable cross-country drive to Salt Lake City.
Average price
$250 - $370
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chicago Union Station to Salt Lake City for an unforgettable adventure. The direct train operated by Amtrak offers daily services, taking approximately 34 hours and 5 minutes to reach your destination. 🌄 Immerse yourself in the stunning views as you travel 1,601 miles across the country from Chicago to Salt Lake City. With a transfer in Provo, enjoy the comfort and convenience of the California Zephyr train towards Emeryville and the FrontRunner train towards Ogden, ultimately arriving at Salt Lake Central Station. 💵 Ticket prices for this train ride range from $65 to $440, providing a budget-friendly and relaxing way to explore the vast landscapes between these two vibrant cities. Sit back, relax, and let the train transport you on this memorable journey through the heart of America.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Salt Lake City station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Salt Lake City, you'll be traveling primarily with Amtrak, which offers a variety of onboard catering services. Expect options for light meals, snacks, and beverages in the café car. You can purchase sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items. Don't forget to bring extra snacks for the journey, as dining car hours may vary.
• Amtrak provides several seating options for this route, including Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and Sleeper Cars. Coach Class is the most economical, but expect limited recline. Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary snacks. If comfort is a priority, consider booking a Sleeper Car for more privacy, larger seating, and the added benefit of meals included in your fare.
• The primary operator for the Chicago to Salt Lake City route is Amtrak, which you can check out on their website: Amtrak.com. Additional operators may include regional services linking to other cities, but Amtrak is your main option for this direct trip. Upon arrival in Salt Lake City, you'll arrive at the Salt Lake City Intermodal hub, where you can find luggage lockers, restrooms, and limited shower facilities. To get to the city center swiftly, take the TRAX light rail (Green Line) right outside the station; it takes about 15 minutes to reach downtown.
🛫 Flying from Chicago Midway Airport to Salt Lake City Airport is convenient with direct flights available, taking only 3 hours and 25 minutes with options from Delta and Southwest Airlines. ✈️ The journey from Chicago to Salt Lake City by plane typically spans around 5 hours and 31 minutes, offering travelers a comfortable and efficient way to reach their destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Salt Lake City and Chicago can vary, with ticket costs ranging from $88 to $558, providing flexibility for travelers based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Salt Lake City Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Chicago to Salt Lake City, you can embark on a journey that involves transfers at St Louis Bus Station and Green River. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 38 hours and 20 minutes. 🛣️ Route 1 entails a 1,700-mile trip from Chicago to Salt Lake City, lasting 1 day and 17 hours. With a total of 2 transfers, you'll first head towards St Louis, followed by a lengthy journey towards Denver, and finally reaching Salt Lake City in just under 11 hours. 💰 Bus fares between Salt Lake City and Chicago range from $205 to $553, with Greyhound USA and Salt Lake Express being the main operators facilitating this cross-country bus expedition.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Downtown Salt Lake station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Salt Lake City.

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The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City is by taking a combination of train and flight. Amtrak operates a train service from Chicago to Denver, Colorado, which takes about 17-19 hours. From Denver, you can take a domestic flight to Salt Lake City, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. The cost for this train and flight combination can range from $90 to $460, depending on the time of year and availability.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City is by flying. There are various airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, which can take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $55 to $460, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check for any flight deals or discounts to get the best price for your trip.
The distance between Chicago and Salt Lake City is approximately 1265 miles. If you plan to drive, the road distance is about 1405.4 miles. This distance can be covered by various means of transportation, including flights, trains, or driving.
The best way to travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City without a car is by taking a train. Amtrak operates a direct train service called the California Zephyr, which takes approximately 34 hours and 5 minutes. The ticket prices range from $65 to $440, depending on your chosen class and availability. The train journey offers scenic views and comfortable amenities, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for traveling between these two cities.
The approximate travel time from Chicago to Salt Lake City is around 5 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to check the schedules and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth journey.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City is by taking a combination of train and flight. This option costs between $90 to $460 and takes approximately 7 hours and 11 minutes. You could also consider taking a flight directly from Chicago to Salt Lake City, which takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes and costs $55 to $460. Alternatively, you can choose to travel by train, which takes longer at 34 hours and 5 minutes, but costs between $65 to $440. Another option is to take a bus, which takes approximately 37 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $200 to $550.
There are many options for accommodation near Salt Lake City. There are 448+ hotels available with a variety of price ranges to suit different budgets. Prices start at $46 and can go higher depending on the location and amenities. Some popular areas to stay in Salt Lake City include Downtown, Sugar House, and the University neighborhood. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or events.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Chicago to Salt Lake City but it is a long journey of approximately 1405 miles. The estimated driving time is around 21 hours and 25 minutes. It is important to plan for rest stops and overnight stays along the way to ensure safe and comfortable travel.
Yes, there is a bus route between Chicago and Salt Lake City but it is not a direct service. The journey involves transferring buses at St Louis Bus Station and Green River. The total travel time is approximately 37 hours and 55 minutes, including the transfers. It is important to note that this is not the most convenient or time-efficient option compared to other modes of transportation such as flying or taking a train.
You can catch the bus from Chicago to Salt Lake City at the Chicago Bus Station. Greyhound USA operates bus services from this station. The bus journey typically takes around 30 hours. It is recommended to check the Greyhound website or contact the bus station for the most up-to-date schedules and ticket information.
The Chicago to Salt Lake City bus services operated by Salt Lake Express arrive at the Downtown Salt Lake station. This is a convenient location in the heart of Salt Lake City, allowing travelers to easily access nearby attractions and accommodations. The bus service provides a comfortable and reliable option for those looking to travel between the two cities.
There are multiple airlines that offer flights between Chicago and Salt Lake City. Southwest Airlines is one of the airlines that operates flights from Chicago Midway Airport to Salt Lake City Airport. Other airlines that offer this route include Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. It is best to check with these airlines for schedules and pricing options for your specific travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight is offered by Southwest Airlines and takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. On average, it takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to reach Salt Lake City from Chicago by plane. The prices of flights between the two cities can range from $58 to $458.
The flight from Chicago to Salt Lake City takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. This is the quickest option for traveling between the two cities. The flight is a direct one, which means there are no layovers or stops along the way. Keep in mind that this duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
Trains from Chicago to Salt Lake City arrive at the Salt Lake City station. This is the final destination of the train journey. The Salt Lake City station is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, making it easy to access popular attractions and accommodations in the area. Upon arrival at the station, travelers can easily navigate the city using various transportation options available.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago to Salt Lake City. The train departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives in Salt Lake City and operates once daily. The journey typically takes around 34 hours and 5 minutes. Train travel offers a scenic and comfortable option for reaching Salt Lake City from Chicago.
To catch the train from Chicago to Salt Lake City you will need to go to Chicago Union Station. This is where Amtrak operates the train services for this route. Chicago Union Station is located at 225 S Canal St, Chicago 60606. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The cost of a flight from Chicago to Salt Lake City can vary depending on several factors. On average, prices range from $58 to $458 for a one-way ticket. This variation can be attributed to factors such as the date of travel, airline carrier, and how far in advance the ticket is booked. It's recommended to compare prices from different airlines and use flexible travel dates to find the best deal for your specific travel needs.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Salt Lake City ranges from $65 to $440. The actual price may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the class of service, and any discounts or promotions available. It is advisable to check with the train operator or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to Salt Lake City ranges from $205 to $552. The price can vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal. Additionally, keep in mind that the duration of the bus journey may be longer compared to other modes of transportation.
The cost to drive from Chicago to Salt Lake City typically ranges from $250 to $370, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes expenses such as gas, tolls, and accommodations. Additionally, it is important to note that this cost may fluctuate depending on the route taken and any additional stops made along the way.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Salt Lake City