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West Lafayette, IN, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
West Lafayette, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from West Lafayette to Chicago: 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.

$5 by trainBest price
195 kmDistance
2h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from West Lafayette to Chicago 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
Bus
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$12-55
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$5-85
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 195 km
Duration: 2h 7m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  7m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$111-301
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Traveling From West Lafayette to Chicago

Traveling from West Lafayette to Chicago offers a striking contrast between the peaceful college town environment and the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer a distinct vibe and attractions.

The Loop
• Home to iconic skyscrapers and cultural institutions.
• Great access to public transportation and dining options.
Lincoln Park
• Vibrant park spaces and outdoor activities abound.
• Known for its lively nightlife and shopping.
Wicker Park
• A hub for artists and creative events.
• Rich in trendy cafes and vintage boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Finding the right time to explore Chicago's top spots can enhance your experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early mornings or weekdays to enjoy the art and space without the crowds.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit on Thursday evenings for extended hours and fewer visitors.
Navy Pier
Go during the off-peak hours in the morning for a more peaceful stroll.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the best times to visit for moderate temperatures. Weather can significantly influence your travel plans, so prepare for sudden changes, especially during transitional seasons.

Dining in Chicago

A must-try dish in Chicago is the iconic deep-dish pizza, known for its rich layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce, offering a hearty departure from the dining experiences in West Lafayette. The vibrant atmosphere of Chicago’s pizza joints, often bustling with locals and tourists alike, enhances the flavor profile of this culinary staple, showcasing the city's passion for food and community.

West Lafayette - Chicago operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$12-55
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$12-55
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Lafayette Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
3h 24m
Estimated price
$5-85
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis Airport (IND) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$122-123
Website
http://united.com

Plane from Indianapolis Airport (IND) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$120-121

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

Traveling between West Lafayette and Chicago 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 delightful road trip from West Lafayette to Chicago spanning a scenic driving distance of 121 miles. With an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 7 minutes, prepare for a smooth journey ahead. 💰 Indulge in budget-friendly travel options ranging from $22 to $35 for the car ride from West Lafayette to Chicago. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of driving as you immerse yourself in the changing landscapes along the route.
Average price
$22 - $35
🚆 Traveling by train from West Lafayette to Chicago is a convenient option with direct services departing from Lafayette Amtrak Station and arriving at Chicago Union Station three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The journey typically takes approximately 3 hours and 24 minutes. 🛤️ Enjoy a scenic ride covering the 110-mile distance between West Lafayette and Chicago by train, with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $85. You can relax and take in the views along the way as the train operated by Amtrak offers a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.
Departure Point
Lafayette Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your journey from West Lafayette to Chicago, Amtrak's Cardinal and Illini services are popular choices. Amtrak provides onboard catering services, including a café car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. If you're seated in First Class, you can enjoy complimentary meals, which enhance your travel experience.
• You have options when it comes to seating. Amtrak offers Business Class and Economy Class on these routes. Business Class seats are wider, more comfortable, and often come with extra legroom along with complimentary beverages. Economy Class is more budget-friendly but still offers comfortable seating. If you can, opt for Business Class for a more pleasant journey.
• After arriving at Chicago Union Station, expect a bustling environment. You can leave your luggage at the station for a fee at the Amtrak Luggage Services desk, but note that showers and full restrooms are available only in select areas. To get to the city center quickly, take the 'L' train from Union Station; the Green and Pink lines are your best options. You can also use buses, with the #60 bus connecting directly to several downtown locations.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from West Lafayette to Chicago is by taking a direct flight from Indianapolis Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Traveling from West Lafayette to Chicago by bus is convenient and efficient. Greyhound USA operates daily services departing every three hours from Lafayette Bus Stop, with a journey duration of approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. 🛣️ The route from West Lafayette to Chicago covers a distance of 119 miles, offering multiple bus options for travelers. Depending on the specific route chosen, the travel time can vary between 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 46 minutes, providing flexibility for passengers. 💸 Ticket prices for the bus between West Lafayette and Chicago range from $12 to $80, making it an affordable transport option for those looking to explore the Windy City. With reliable services and convenient schedules, the bus journey offers a hassle-free way to reach Chicago from West Lafayette.
Departure Point
Lafayette Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Lafayette Bus Stop at least 30 minutes before departure; buses may vary in punctuality, and this ensures you have enough time for check-in and to find your seat comfortably.
• During your bus ride, keep an eye on your belongings; Greyhound and Miller Transportation have been known for their reasonable safety but being vigilant is always best, especially when making stops along the way.
• When you arrive at the Chicago Bus Station, be prepared for a bustling environment; familiarize yourself with the station map in advance at Chicago Bus Station Map so you can navigate easily to the exits and local transport options like CTA trains and buses.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from West Lafayette to Chicago.

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The distance between West Lafayette and Chicago is approximately 108 miles by road. By train, it takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes to reach Chicago from West Lafayette. Another option is taking a shuttle and then flying, which usually takes around 4 hours and 34 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes about 2 hours and 7 minutes to reach West Lafayette from Chicago by car. Lastly, you can also take a bus, which typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to travel from West Lafayette to Chicago.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from West Lafayette to Chicago is by train. It can cost between $5 to $85 and takes approximately 3 hours and 24 minutes. If time is of the essence, driving is the most time-efficient option, taking around 2 hours and 7 minutes and costing between $22 to $35. Considering both cost and time, taking the train provides a good balance between affordability and convenience for this journey.
The prices for a train ticket between West Lafayette and Chicago range from $5 to $85. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and West Lafayette can vary from $12 to $80. The cost of travel will depend on factors such as the time of booking, travel class, and availability. It is recommended to check with specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from West Lafayette to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 121 miles and the journey takes about 2 hours and 7 minutes by car. The cost of driving from West Lafayette to Chicago varies between $22 and $35, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from West Lafayette to Chicago without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes and the cost ranges from $12 to $80. There are several bus companies that offer this route, providing a convenient and affordable option for transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between West Lafayette and Chicago. You can take a train from Lafayette Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station, which departs three times a week and takes approximately 3 hours and 24 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station, which operates every day and takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
The flight time between West Lafayette and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, it is important to note that this time may vary depending on factors such as air traffic and weather conditions. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. On average, a direct flight from Indianapolis Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport can cost between $100 and $300, but prices may fluctuate.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Chicago. There are over 1116 hotels available with prices starting at just $58. You can choose from a range of hotels, including budget options as well as luxury ones. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deal and ensure availability.

Trips to Chicago