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Chicago, IL, USA to Eau Claire, WI, USA from $52: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Eau Claire, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Eau Claire: 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.

$52 - Train, BusBest price
513 kmDistance
4h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Eau Claire 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  20m
Estimated price
$53-79
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
7h  59m
Estimated price
$52-169
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 513 km
Duration: 4h 49m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
Greyhound US0150, Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$60-171
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  49m
Estimated price
$278-530
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  3m
Estimated price
$531-538
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  11m
Estimated price
$531-536
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$532-533
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  25m
Estimated price
$534-535

Traveling From Chicago to Eau Claire

The journey from Chicago's bustling urban landscape to Eau Claire's charming small-town vibe offers a delightful contrast between vibrant city life and serene nature.

Best Neighborhoods in Eau Claire

Eau Claire boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Eau Claire
• Vibrant arts scene with local galleries and theaters.
• Diverse dining options, from casual to fine dining.
Westside
• Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and schools nearby.
• Easy access to outdoor activities and the Chippewa River.
North Eau Claire
• Quaint shops and cafes create a cozy vibe.
• Scenic biking and walking trails along winding rivers.

Best Times To Visit Eau Claire's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Eau Claire.

Phoenix Park
Visit early mornings in spring for fewer crowds and blooming scenery.
Chippewa River State Trail
Fall weekends offer stunning foliage and pleasant weather for biking.
Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market
Arrive right at opening on Saturdays for the freshest local produce.

Eau Claire Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Eau Claire experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it ideal for year-round activities. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall, when you can enjoy comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, but be prepared for snow if you travel in winter.

Dining Recommendation in Eau Claire

Try the wild rice soup at The Lismore Hotel's restaurant, which showcases local ingredients and a comforting, homey vibe that contrasts with Chicago's fast-paced dining scene. The flavors are rich and earthy, offering a taste of Wisconsin's culinary roots that you won't find in the city.

Chicago - Eau Claire operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

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

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$53-79

Bus from Milwaukee to Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$60-171
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

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

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$1692-1693
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
http://www.badgerbus.badgerbus.com/tickets

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$1694-1693

Bus from Milwaukee Intermodal to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$1695-1696
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Train Station to Milwaukee Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$1697-526
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$521-523
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Minneapolis

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$790-791
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to La Crosse

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$793-794

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Wausau/Marshfield

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$793-791
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Minneapolis

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$797-550
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Minneapolis

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$795-537
Website
suncountry.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Minneapolis

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$60-520

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

Traveling between Chicago and Eau Claire 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 Chicago to Eau Claire, covering a distance of 319 miles. The journey promises around 5 hours and 11 minutes of picturesque landscapes and smooth highways. 💵 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options, with car expenses ranging from $55 to $85 for the Chicago to Eau Claire route. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make your way through charming towns and peaceful countryside.
Average price
$55 - $85
🛫 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from Chicago to Eau Claire by taking a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to La Crosse Airport, lasting just 1 hour and 18 minutes.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
La Crosse Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Chicago to Eau Claire, travelers can board a bus at Chicago Union Station bound for Eau Claire with a transfer in Madison-Lake St. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 7 hours and 20 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus from Eau Claire to Chicago can range from $53 to $79, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore between these two vibrant cities in the United States.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Eau Claire.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chicago and Eau Claire is approximately 283 miles. By train and bus, it takes about 7 hours and 59 minutes to travel from Chicago to Eau Claire. If driving by car, it typically takes around 5 hours and 11 minutes to travel from Eau Claire to Chicago. Taking a bus from Chicago to Eau Claire can take approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Chicago to Eau Claire is to drive. Taking a car would cost around $55-$85 for the round trip and would take approximately 5 hours and 11 minutes each way. This option allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times, and also provides the convenience of having your own transportation during your stay in Eau Claire.
The prices for a bus ticket between Eau Claire and Chicago vary depending on the time and the bus company. The prices typically range from $53 to $79. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
To travel from Chicago to Eau Claire without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 319 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 11 minutes to drive from Chicago to Eau Claire. Rental car prices can vary, with estimates ranging from $55 to $85 for the trip, depending on the rental agency and vehicle type chosen.
To travel from Chicago to Eau Claire without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes and typically costs between $50 and $80. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, providing frequent schedules throughout the day. It is recommended to check for updates on bus availability and any potential changes or delays before planning your trip.
No, there is not a direct link between Chicago and Eau Claire. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, including transfers at Madison-Lake St. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and Badger Bus. The buses depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop.
The flight between Chicago and Eau Claire typically involves a layover in Minneapolis as there are no direct flights between these two cities. The quickest flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Minneapolis Airport takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the time of booking, airline, and any additional services or baggage fees. It is recommended to check with airlines for up-to-date pricing for this route.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Eau Claire. With over 41 hotels to choose from, you can find one to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $44 per night, making it convenient for different budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are several choices available in the area.

Trips from Chicago