Baltimore, MD, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $34: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Baltimore to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$34 by trainBest price
978 kmDistance
4h 11m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Baltimore 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.
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Traveling From Baltimore to Chicago
The journey from Baltimore to Chicago offers a striking contrast between Baltimore's harbor charm and Chicago's towering skyline and vibrant urban energy.
Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago
Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct cultures and experiences for visitors.
Wicker Park
• Known for its eclectic shops and cafes
• Vibrant nightlife and live music scene
Lincoln Park
• Home to beautiful parks and gardens
• Great dining options and cultural attractions
The Loop
• Center of Chicago's business and historical sites
• Easy access to art galleries and theaters
Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions
Maximize your experience in Chicago by choosing the right times to visit its attractions.
Millennium Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy the park without the crowds.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Late afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter, more immersive experience.
Navy Pier
Mornings and weekdays are ideal for fewer visitors and smoother strolls.
Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Chicago experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers, making each season distinct in its charm. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when pleasant temperatures enhance your travel experience and outdoor activities.
Dining in Chicago: A Culinary Adventure
A must-try dish in Chicago is the iconic deep-dish pizza, with its rich layers of cheese and a hearty tomato sauce that contrasts sharply with Baltimore's seafood specialties. This dining experience immerses you in a lively atmosphere, showcasing local ingredients and flavors that reflect the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Baltimore - Chicago operators
Explore transport companies operating between Baltimore and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Baltimore (BWI) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
$2577-2578Plane from Baltimore (BWI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
2h 16mEstimated price
$2574-340Website
flyfrontier.com
Plane from Baltimore (BWI) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
2h 3mEstimated price
$348-349Website
delta.com
Plane from Baltimore (BWI) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
3h 46mEstimated price
$346-5980Plane from Baltimore (BWI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
4h 26mEstimated price
$596-5940Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Baltimore Penn Station to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
37mEstimated price
$5840-340Train from Rockville Amtrak to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
17h 16mEstimated price
$2570-584840Train from Baltimore Penn Station to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
25h 32mEstimated price
$594-595Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Baltimore Penn Station to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
47mEstimated price
$5847-5843Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station
Average Duration
16h 40mEstimated price
$592-593Other from Baltimore to Chicago
Average Duration
11h 36mEstimated price
$596-597Baltimore to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Baltimore 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 scenic road trip from Baltimore to Chicago, covering a distance of 702 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes as you make your way through several states.
⏱️ Plan for a journey of around 11 hours and 36 minutes, giving you ample time to appreciate the changing scenery and make memorable stops along the route.
💸 The cost of traveling by car from Baltimore to Chicago typically ranges from $120 to $190, offering flexibility for various budget preferences.
Average price
$120 - $190
🚂 Experience the scenic journey from Baltimore to Chicago on a direct train service departing from Baltimore Penn Station and arriving at Chicago Union Station. Operating three times a week on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, the trip takes approximately 25 hours and 32 minutes.
🌆 Traveling by train from Baltimore to Chicago offers an exciting adventure covering a distance of 812 miles in about 19 hours and 37 minutes. With prices ranging from $34 to $584, enjoy the comfort and convenience of Amtrak Acela services as you relax and watch the landscape change along the way.
Departure Point
Baltimore Penn Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Baltimore to Chicago, consider using Amtrak as your primary operator. Amtrak offers dining services onboard, including a café car where you can purchase light meals, snacks, and beverages. Depending on your train schedule, you may also enjoy a full-service dining experience in the dining car with menu options ranging from sandwiches to full meals and desserts.
• Amtrak services this route with various seating options. For added comfort, consider upgrading to Business Class, which features larger seats, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. If budget is a concern, Economy Class provides comfortable seating and is a more economical option. Check their website for variations in features, as some trains may offer First Class seating with premium amenities.
• When you arrive in Chicago at Union Station, be prepared for a large and bustling environment. To store your luggage, services are available at the station via the Amtrak Luggage Service, where you can leave bags securely. Restrooms are available throughout the station, though shower facilities are not. For efficient transport to the city center, use the 'L' train from the Union Station stop. Board the Orange Line towards Midway, which is the fastest route and takes about 25 minutes to reach downtown destinations.
🛫 Flying from Baltimore to Chicago is a quick and convenient option, with the fastest direct flight taking just 2 hours from Baltimore Airport to Chicago Midway Airport.
💸 The cost of a flight between Chicago and Baltimore can range from $59 to $257, making it accessible for travelers with different budget considerations. Overall, flying is a reliable and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Baltimore Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 The journey from Baltimore to Chicago by bus takes approximately 16 hours and 40 minutes. Greyhound USA operates services departing twice daily from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station.
🛣️ The route covers a distance of 978 miles with 2 transfers. The first transfer involves a bus ride towards Atlantic City, followed by a second bus towards Los Angeles, and finally a bus towards Chicago Amtrak.
💰 The prices for a bus ticket on this route vary from $80 to $170. Travelers can enjoy the scenic views along the way and experience the convenience of bus travel between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Baltimore Downtown Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider bringing snacks and a refillable water bottle for the long 16h 40m journey from Baltimore to Chicago, as bus services may not always stop frequently enough for food breaks.
• Before your trip, download the Greyhound app for real-time updates on your bus schedule, gate information, and an easy way to access boarding passes—especially useful for your route which includes transfers in Philadelphia and Indianapolis.
• Upon arriving at Chicago Bus Station, head to the information desk for public transport options, and consider using the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) for easy access to downtown; their website at transitchicago.com provides maps and schedules to help navigate the city quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Baltimore to Chicago.
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The distance between Baltimore and Chicago is 608 miles by air. The typical travel time by plane is around 4 hours and 6 minutes. By train, it takes approximately 19 hours and 37 minutes. If traveling by car, the journey takes about 11 hours and 36 minutes. Another option is taking a bus, which typically takes around 16 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Baltimore to Chicago is by train, with prices ranging from $40 to $290. Although the train journey takes 25 hours and 32 minutes, it is a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. If time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by plane, which takes approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $55 to $260. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and individual schedules when choosing between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency.
The price of a train ticket between Baltimore and Chicago can range from $34 to $584, depending on factors such as the type of seat and the time of booking. Similarly, the price of a bus ticket between Chicago and Baltimore can vary from $80 to $170. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices to get the best deals for your travel needs.
To travel from Baltimore to Chicago without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 702 miles, and it takes around 11 hours and 36 minutes to drive from Baltimore to Chicago. The cost of driving such a distance can vary, with prices ranging from $120 to $190 depending on factors such as the type of car and fuel prices.
To travel from Baltimore to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a bus, which takes about 16 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $80 and $170. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $55 and $260. If you prefer train travel, you can take a train journey via Washington, which takes approximately 19 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $30 and $600.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Baltimore and Chicago. The train departs from Baltimore Penn Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 25 hours and 32 minutes and operates three times a week. Additionally, there is a direct bus link between the two cities, with buses departing from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station and arriving at Chicago Bus Station. The bus journey takes around 16 hours and 40 minutes and operates daily.
The flight from Baltimore to Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $59 and $257, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
There are a wide variety of options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of prices to fit your budget starting at $58 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there is sure to be a hotel that meets your needs in Chicago. From downtown to the outskirts, you can find a convenient location to explore all that the city has to offer.
Trips from Baltimore
- Baltimore to Annapolis
- Baltimore to Arlington
- Baltimore to Boston
- Baltimore to Alexandria
- Baltimore to Philadelphia
- Baltimore to Frederick
- Baltimore to Pittsburgh
- Baltimore to Orlando
- Baltimore to Lancaster
- Baltimore to Richmond
- Baltimore to Charlottesville
- Baltimore to Atlantic City
- Baltimore to Virginia Beach
- Baltimore to Raleigh
- Baltimore to New York City
- Baltimore to Gettysburg
- Baltimore to Fort Lauderdale
- Baltimore to Atlanta
- Baltimore to National Harbor
- Baltimore to Charlotte
- Baltimore to New Haven
- Baltimore to Toronto
- Baltimore to Newark
- Baltimore to Wilmington
- Baltimore to Myrtle Beach
- Baltimore to Miami
- Baltimore to Harrisburg
- Baltimore to Detroit
- Baltimore to Seattle
- Baltimore to Washington
- Baltimore to Norfolk
- Baltimore to Houston
- Baltimore to Jarrettsville
- Baltimore to Niagara Falls
- Baltimore to Ocean City
- Baltimore to Silver Spring
- Baltimore to Columbia
- Baltimore to London
- Baltimore to Saint Lucia
- Baltimore to TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
Trips to Chicago
- Fort Wayne to Chicago
- Nashville to Chicago
- Philadelphia to Chicago
- West Lafayette to Chicago
- Boston to Chicago
- Tampa to Chicago
- Milwaukee to Chicago
- New York City to Chicago
- Detroit to Chicago
- Minneapolis to Chicago
- Pittsburgh to Chicago
- Dallas to Chicago
- Kalamazoo to Chicago
- Cleveland to Chicago
- Ann Arbor to Chicago
- Omaha to Chicago
- Memphis to Chicago
- Kansas City to Chicago
- Las Vegas to Chicago
- East Lansing to Chicago
- Columbus to Chicago
- Denver to Chicago
- Los Angeles to Chicago
- Cincinnati to Chicago
- Naperville to Chicago
- Madison to Chicago
- Saint Louis to Chicago
- Champaign to Chicago
- Grand Rapids to Chicago
- Green Bay to Chicago
- Michigan City to Chicago
- Indianapolis to Chicago
- Bloomington to Chicago
- Peoria to Chicago
- Kankakee to Chicago
- Iowa City to Chicago
- South Bend to Chicago
- Toledo to Chicago
- Rockford to Chicago
- Cleveland to Chicago