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Louisville, KY, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $22: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Louisville, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Louisville 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.

$22 - Bus, TrainBest price
478 kmDistance
3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Louisville 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
Southwest Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$204-418
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$22-184
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 478 km
Duration: 3h 14m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$50-314
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$50-2043
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  44m
Estimated price
$59-448
Company
Palmland
Bus
Average Duration
6h  3m
Estimated price
$64-2040
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$2041-2042
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Traveling From Louisville to Chicago

Your journey from Louisville to Chicago brings together the Southern warmth of bluegrass charm and the vibrant pulse of a bustling metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods are diverse, each offering its own distinct charm.

Wicker Park
• Trendy boutiques and art galleries abound.
• A hub for live music and nightlife excitement.
Lincoln Park
• Scenic parks and the Lincoln Park Zoo nearby.
• Historic architecture meets modern dining experiences.
The Loop
• Home to iconic skyscrapers and cultural landmarks.
• Easy access to museums and theaters.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Chicago experience.

Millennium Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer peaceful strolls and stunning photos.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Weekdays around lunchtime provide quieter viewing of masterpieces.
Navy Pier
Visit during weekday evenings for fewer crowds and beautiful sunset views.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a range of weather conditions with hot summers and cold winters, impacting your travel plans. Visiting in spring and fall usually brings milder temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in Chicago

Try the deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a signature Chicago dish that contrasts sharply with Louisville's barbecue culture. The layers of cheese and toppings create a savory experience that highlights the city's vibrant culinary scene, setting it apart from the Southern flavors you’re used to.

Louisville - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Louisville (SDF) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$2045-4183

Plane from Louisville (SDF) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2049-4180
Website
aa.com

Plane from Louisville (SDF) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2049-4180
Website
united.com

Plane from Louisville (SDF) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$2049-4180
Website
delta.com

Plane from Louisville (SDF) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
3h 44m
Estimated price
$4185-4186
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
http://www.amtrak.com

Bus from Louisville, KY to Indianapolis Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$228-229

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$50-223

Bus from Louisville, KY to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$2041-2042
Website
palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$50-223
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$4189-220

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

Traveling between Louisville 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 picturesque journey from Louisville to Chicago by car, spanning a driving distance of 297 miles. Enjoy the scenic views and open roads as you travel north towards the vibrant city of Chicago. 💸 Experience budget-friendly road trip options, with prices ranging from $50 to $80 for the journey from Louisville to Chicago by car. Plan ahead to find the best deals and make the most of your travel budget on this exciting adventure. 🏙️ Arrive in the iconic city of Chicago after approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes of driving, ready to explore its renowned attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine. Your road trip from Louisville to Chicago promises unforgettable memories and endless adventures.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚂 Take a scenic train ride from Louisville USA to Chicago USA! The journey covers a distance of 305 miles and lasts approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. 🚌 Start your trip by boarding a bus heading to Chicago Amtrak from Louisville. The bus journey takes about 5 hours and 55 minutes and departs from Greyhound Bus Station. You can contact Greyhound at 1 231-2222 or visit their website for more information.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Amtrak Cardinal, which operates from Louisville to Chicago, include a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. The café typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and various drinks. It's a good idea to review the menu on the Amtrak website before your trip to know what you'd like to buy.
• Amtrak offers different seating options for the trip from Louisville to Chicago. You can choose from Coach Class, which is comfortable and affordable, to Business Class, which offers enhanced legroom and amenities. Note that First Class is typically not available on this route. When booking, consider the upgrades for additional comfort, especially for a longer trip.
• Two primary operators service the route: Amtrak (amtrak.com) and the Cardinal line. You can check their schedule and fares directly on the websites. Upon arrival in Chicago Union Station, you can leave your luggage at the Amtrak baggage service for a fee and use the restrooms located throughout the station. For fast transit to the city center, hop on the 'L' train from Union Station: Take the Blue Line toward O'Hare, and it will take you directly to the Loop in about 5-10 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Louisville to Chicago is convenient with the direct 1h 10m flight from Louisville Airport to Chicago Midway Airport offered by Southwest Airlines. 🌆 Upon arrival, you can explore the vibrant city of Chicago after a short flight of 3h 14m from Louisville. From iconic architecture to fantastic dining options, Chicago has much to offer for visitors.
Departure Point
Louisville Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Traveling from Louisville to Chicago by bus is a convenient option with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes. 🚌 The journey covers a distance of 305-347 miles, with prices ranging from $64 to $139. Multiple bus routes are available, each with varying travel times and transfers along the way.
Departure Point
Louisville, KY station
Arrival Point
Chicago IL station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your bus with Amtrak Thruway or Greyhound, both of which offer direct services with varying travel times; visit Amtrak at amtrak.com or Greyhound at greyhound.com for schedules and prices.
• While traveling from Louisville to Chicago, bring snacks and drinks for the 6-8 hours on the bus; convenient stops are rare, so pack lightly and plan your meals ahead of time.
• Upon arriving at Chicago Union Station, take a moment to check the interactive station map at chicagounionstation.com to navigate the complex, and don't miss the dining options in the station like the famous Italian Beef sandwiches you can find at Portillo's.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Louisville to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from Louisville to Chicago is by taking a combination of bus and train. Greyhound and Megabus offer several daily bus routes between the two cities, with prices starting around $21. Once in Chicago, you can easily connect to the train network, such as Amtrak, which offers affordable fares starting at $35 for the approximately 5-hour journey. Overall, this option provides a cost-effective and convenient way to travel between the two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Louisville to Chicago is by flying. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $65 to $430, depending on the airline and time of booking. Booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help secure the best fares.
The distance from Louisville to Chicago is approximately 271 miles. If you're driving, the road distance is about 297 miles. The journey can take around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. Alternatively, you can also fly between the two cities, with a flight time of around 1 hour.
The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Louisville to Chicago without a car is by taking a bus via Indianapolis. There are several bus companies that operate this route, such as Greyhound and Megabus, with prices ranging from $60 to $140. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes, depending on traffic and other factors. It is advised to book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices and ensure availability.
The travel time from Louisville to Chicago varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. If traveling by car, the journey usually takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. If taking a bus or train, it typically takes around 8-9 hours, including transfers. There are also direct flights available, which take about 1-2 hours depending on the airline and flight schedule chosen.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Chicago. There are over 1116 hotels available in the area, offering a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for these hotels start at $58 per night. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Louisville to Chicago. The driving distance is approximately 297 miles, and it takes about 4 hours and 58 minutes to reach your destination. It's important to note that the actual travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and your driving speed.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Louisville and Chicago. The bus departs from Louisville and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The bus service operates twice daily, every day of the week. The journey on the bus typically takes approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes.
You can catch the Louisville to Chicago bus from the Louisville station. This is where the bus services, operated by Amtrak Thruway, depart from. The station is centrally located in Louisville and easily accessible for travelers. Be sure to arrive at the station early to ensure a smooth departure.
The Louisville to Chicago bus services, operated by Palmland Bus Lines, arrive at the Chicago IL station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Chicago, making it easy to access various parts of the city. From there, travelers can easily connect to other forms of transportation or explore nearby attractions.
To get from Louisville to Chicago the cheapest option is to take a bus or train. The bus and train combination can cost anywhere between $21 to $190 and takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes. Buses and trains are generally more affordable than flights and offer the opportunity to enjoy the scenery while traveling. It is recommended to check for deals and compare prices between different bus and train operators to find the most cost-effective option.
Southwest Airlines is the main carrier that offers flights between Louisville and Chicago. The flights operate from Louisville Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. Southwest Airlines provides several daily flights, allowing for flexibility in travel schedules. Other airlines may also offer indirect flights between the two cities, but Southwest Airlines is the most convenient and direct option.
The fastest way to travel from Louisville to Chicago is by taking a direct flight. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Southwest Airlines operates flights from Louisville Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, with a total travel time of around 3 hours and 14 minutes. The prices for flights between the two cities range from $69 to $428 depending on the airline and the time of booking.
The flight from Louisville to Chicago typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This time may vary depending on factors such as the airline, weather conditions, and air traffic. It is important to check with your airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific flight.
The cost of a flight from Louisville to Chicago can range from $69 to $428 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to compare prices on different platforms or use flight search engines to find the best deals. It is also advisable to book your flight in advance for more chances of getting a lower fare.
The cost of a bus ticket from Louisville to Chicago can range from $64 to $138. However, prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel and the bus company you choose. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus operators and book in advance to secure the best deals.
The cost of driving from Louisville to Chicago can vary depending on several factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and the type of vehicle being used. On average, the cost of driving is estimated to be between $50 and $80, taking into account the distance of approximately 300 miles. It's also important to consider additional expenses such as parking fees, as well as the time and effort required for driving.

Trips from Louisville

Trips to Chicago