Chicago, IL, USA to Yellowstone National Park, WY, USA from $146: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$146 by busBest price

2049.78 kmDistance

7h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from the bustling cityscape of Chicago to the serene wilderness of Yellowstone National Park presents a striking contrast between urban life and nature's untouched magnificence.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers diverse neighborhoods, each showcasing unique attractions.

Old Faithful

• Home to the iconic Old Faithful geyser.

• Surrounded by numerous trekking trails.

Mammoth Hot Springs

• Features stunning travertine terraces.

• Close to historic Fort Yellowstone.

Canyon Village

• Offers spectacular views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

• Great access to hiking routes and scenic overlooks.

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park's Attractions

Timing your visits to Yellowstone's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Old Faithful

Visit early morning or late afternoon to witness fewer crowds and enjoy geyser eruptions without the hustle.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Explore in late spring or early fall for stunning colors and optimal visibility without tourist congestion.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Go during weekdays in June or September for a quieter stroll among the terraces.

Yellowstone National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yellowstone experiences a varied climate with warm summers and cold winters, impacting what you can enjoy during your visit. Spring and early fall are often considered the best times to explore, providing mild weather and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Yellowstone National Park

Try the bison burger at the Canyon Village Dining Room, a dish that showcases local game in a way that's a departure from Chicago's urban food scene. The rustic atmosphere and flavors of the region offer a fresh, authentic experience that highlights Yellowstone’s unique culinary identity.

Chicago - Yellowstone National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Yellowstone 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 Jackson

Average Duration

3h 24m

Estimated price

$2681-2682

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Jackson via Denver

Average Duration

5h 38m

Estimated price

$2681-2682

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Bozeman

Average Duration

3h 22m

Estimated price

$250-2683

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Bozeman via Denver

Average Duration

5h 51m

Estimated price

$250-2683

Website

delta.com

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

Average Duration

5h 54m

Estimated price

$2688-2689

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Jackson via Atlanta

Average Duration

7h 28m

Estimated price

$5290-2689

Plane from Chicago Midway to Bozeman via Minneapolis

Average Duration

7h 4m

Estimated price

$5291-2689

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

Average Duration

6h 29m

Estimated price

$5292-5293

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Bozeman

Average Duration

3h 10m

Estimated price

$5292-2682

Plane from Chicago Midway to Bozeman via Denver

Average Duration

5h 35m

Estimated price

$5291-5296

Plane from Chicago Midway to Bozeman via Nashville

Average Duration

5h 55m

Estimated price

$260-5299

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Jackson

Average Duration

3h 14m

Estimated price

$1462-2685

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

Average Duration

6h 49m

Estimated price

$1462-2685

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Bozeman

Average Duration

3h 26m

Estimated price

$1463-2683

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Salt Lake City

Average Duration

34h 5m

Estimated price

$1464-1462

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (406) 556-3540

Website

karststage.com

Bus from Bozeman, MT - Airport to West Yellowstone, MT

Average Duration

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 208-656-8824

Website

saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Salt Lake City Airport to Rexburg

Average Duration

4h 30m

Estimated price

$1469-2681

Bus from Rexburg, ID to Island Park

Average Duration

Estimated price

$7913-7912

Chicago to Yellowstone National Park: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Yellowstone National Park 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.

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard dining services vary by operator, but if you choose Amtrak, expect their dining car to offer a selection of meals, snacks, and beverages throughout your journey. Meals are typically prepared fresh and can range from breakfast options like omelets to dinner selections like steak and salmon. For a more casual option, you can use the café car where you can grab snacks and light meals.

• Amtrak offers several seating options on this route: First Class provides spacious seating with extra legroom and fine dining experiences, Business Class offers comfortable seating with good amenities at a reasonable price, and Economy Class features standard seating with budget-friendly options. Make sure to book a seat that aligns with your comfort level and budget.

• When planning your trip, remember that Amtrak is the primary operator on this route. You can book tickets and find more information on their official website: amtrak.com Additionally, you may consider checking local transport options through the Yellowstone National Park website: nps.gov which offers details on shuttles and public transport near the park.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Chicago and Yellowstone National Park is approximately 1,300 miles by road. If you choose to drive, the typical travel time can range from 18 to 22 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, flying from Chicago to a nearby airport like Bozeman, MT, and then driving to Yellowstone can cut down travel time considerably, taking around 4 to 5 hours overall.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park would be to fly from Chicago to Bozeman, MT, which is the closest major airport to the park. From Bozeman, you can rent a car and drive to Yellowstone, which would take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This option allows you to save time on the long road trip while also being relatively cost-effective compared to driving the entire distance from Chicago.

The prices for traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Flying from Chicago to Bozeman, MT, the closest major airport to Yellowstone, can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 or more round trip, depending on the time of booking and availability. Renting a car in Bozeman and driving to Yellowstone would incur additional costs for fuel and rental fees, which can range from $50 to $100 or more per day. Overall, the total cost of the trip will depend on factors such as transportation choices, accommodation, meals, and activities.

To travel from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car for the journey. The most direct route would involve taking I-90 West from Chicago through states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana before reaching Yellowstone. This drive typically takes around 18 to 22 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Make sure to plan your route, accommodations, and fuel stops in advance for a smooth road trip experience.

To travel from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park without a car, you can consider flying from Chicago O'Hare International Airport to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana. From Bozeman, you can then take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car to reach Yellowstone, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. Another option is to take a combination of flights and ground transportation to reach the park, such as flying to Salt Lake City, Utah, and then taking a connecting flight to Bozeman or a bus to Yellowstone.

There are no direct transportation links between Chicago and Yellowstone National Park as they are located quite far apart. Traveling between the two locations typically involves connecting flights or multiple modes of transport such as flying to a nearby airport and then driving to the park or taking a combination of flights and ground transportation. While there may not be a direct link, several travel options are available to reach Yellowstone from Chicago efficiently.

The flight duration from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park can vary depending on the specific route and any layovers, but it typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, including connecting flights to nearby airports such as Bozeman, MT. The cost of a roundtrip flight from Chicago to Yellowstone can range from $300 to $600, with prices fluctuating based on the time of booking, airline, and travel dates. It's recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to secure the best deals for your travel.

There are various accommodation options near Yellowstone National Park, including lodges, cabins, campgrounds, and hotels. Some popular lodging areas outside the park include West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody, all offering a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. It's recommended to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred lodging option near Yellowstone National Park.