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Ann Arbor, MI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $10: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Ann Arbor, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Ann Arbor 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.

$10 by trainBest price
389 kmDistance
3h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ann Arbor 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$10-120
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$10-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 389 km
Duration: 3h 7m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$22-80
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$75-293
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$80-393
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  7m
Estimated price
$100-101
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  15m
Estimated price
$102-393
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Traveling From Ann Arbor to Chicago

The journey from Ann Arbor to Chicago offers a captivating shift from the quaint charm of a college town to the vibrant pulse of a bustling metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Wicker Park
• Trendy shops and restaurants abound.
• Vibrant nightlife scene after dark.
Lincoln Park
• Scenic parks and lakefront views.
• Family-friendly with top-rated attractions.
Pilsen
• Rich in Mexican culture and art.
• Famous for its colorful murals.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience at Chicago's famous sites.

Millennium Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Midweek afternoons offer quieter galleries and a peaceful ambiance.
Navy Pier
Go on weekdays during off-peak hours to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the ideal times to explore the city. Weather conditions can greatly influence your travel plans, from outdoor festivals in summer to cozy indoor activities during chilly winter months.

Dining in Chicago: A Culinary Adventure

Savor the iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where the rich, gooey layers of cheese and flavorful toppings create a hearty experience unlike anything in Ann Arbor. The lively atmosphere and dedication to authentic, local ingredients elevate the dining experience, showcasing the city's culinary flair.

Ann Arbor - Chicago operators

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

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

Train from Ann Arbor Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$10-120
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Ann Arbor to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$22-80
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Ann Arbor to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$22-80
Contact phone
+1 517-333-0400
Website
https://www.michiganflyer.com

Bus from Ann Arbor- Blake Transit Ctr., MI to Detroit Metro Airport

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$22-24
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$106-107
Website
https://aa.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$120-400
Website
https://southwest.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$1200-1201
Website
https://delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$1202-1203

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

Traveling between Ann Arbor 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 road trip from Ann Arbor to Chicago, covering a distance of 242 miles in just around 4 hours of scenic driving. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $40 to $65 for a comfortable journey from Ann Arbor to the vibrant city of Chicago by car.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 The train journey from Ann Arbor to Chicago takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. Services are available four times a day, offering a convenient way to travel between the two cities. 🌆 Arriving at Chicago Union Station after a scenic ride of 238 miles, passengers can explore the vibrant city of Chicago. From iconic landmarks to delicious food, there is plenty to discover and enjoy in the Windy City. 💸 Ticket prices for the train from Ann Arbor to Chicago vary between $10 to $120, providing an affordable option for travelers looking to experience the charm and excitement of Chicago via a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.
Departure Point
Ann Arbor Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Ann Arbor to Chicago may vary depending on the operator. Amtrak offers a Café Car that provides a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals, including sandwiches, salads, and coffee. If you’re traveling in Business Class, you may enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks served at your seat.
• The Amtrak service from Ann Arbor to Chicago typically offers three classes of seating: Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class. Economy Class features regular seating arrangements, while Business Class provides larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and access to provided refreshments. Generally, there is no First Class option on this route, but Business Class is a solid upgrade.
• When traveling from Ann Arbor to Chicago, the primary operator is Amtrak. You can find more information regarding schedules and ticket purchases on their official website: Amtrak. To reach the city center faster upon arrival at Chicago Union Station, take the 'L' train Blue Line directly from the station. This line will take you to the Clark/Lake station, where you can easily transfer to other lines if needed. If you are planning to explore the city after your arrival, note that Union Station provides luggage services, and public restrooms are available, but showers are not provided. Additionally, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) website CTA offers useful information about local transport schedules and maps.
🛫 Flying from Ann Arbor to Chicago is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with the quickest direct flight lasting only 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines operate flights from Detroit Airport to Chicago Midway Airport.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Heading from Ann Arbor to Chicago by bus is a convenient and affordable option. With buses departing four times a day and the journey taking approximately 6 hours, it's a straightforward way to travel between these two cities. 🚌 The bus route from Ann Arbor to Chicago, operated by Greyhound USA, offers a comfortable ride with services operating daily. Prices for this route can vary from $22 to $80, providing flexibility for travelers based on their budget and schedule. 🚌 With a distance of around 203 miles, the bus trip offers a scenic route from Ann Arbor to Chicago. Whether you choose a direct route or one with a transfer along the way, you'll arrive at the Chicago Bus Station ready to explore all that the vibrant city has to offer.
Departure Point
Ann Arbor station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider checking both Greyhound and FlixBus for your journey, as they offer different schedules and prices, with Greyhound typically priced between $22 - $80; visit Greyhound and FlixBus for details.
• Bring snacks and drinks for the 6-hour bus ride, as stopping for breaks may not provide enough time to grab food; locations like the Ann Arbor Farmers Market or your local grocery store can provide great options before your trip.
• Upon arrival at Chicago Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the layout by checking out the station map beforehand, and head to the nearby Union Station for convenient access to trains and local transit systems such as the 'L' train, which can take you around the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Ann Arbor to Chicago.

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The distance between Ann Arbor and Chicago is approximately 202 miles or 241.6 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes to reach Chicago from Ann Arbor. By taking a bus to Detroit and then flying to Chicago Midway, it takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. If driving, it typically takes around 4 hours to reach Ann Arbor from Chicago, while taking a bus can take roughly 6 hours.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Ann Arbor to Chicago would be to drive and fly. It is the quickest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, if cost is a primary concern, taking a bus would be the cheapest option, although it takes around 6 hours. The prices for the bus can range from $20 to $130.
The prices for a train ticket from Ann Arbor to Chicago range from $10 to $120, depending on factors such as the time of travel and the class of service. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and Ann Arbor can vary from $20 to $130. These prices may also depend on factors such as the bus company and the day of travel. It is advisable to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Ann Arbor to Chicago without using public transportation, driving is the most convenient option. The driving distance is approximately 242 miles, and it takes around 4 hours to reach Chicago from Ann Arbor by car. Depending on factors like fuel consumption and tolls, the cost of the trip can range from $40 to $65.
The best way to travel from Ann Arbor to Chicago without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes and fares range from $10 to $120. Taking the train is a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking to avoid driving. Other options, such as bus or flying, may also be available but may have longer travel times or higher costs.
Yes, there is a direct link between Ann Arbor and Chicago. You can take a direct train from Ann Arbor Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station, which operates four times a day and takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service from Ann Arbor Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station, which operates five times a day and takes approximately 6 hours. Both options offer convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
The flight time from Detroit Airport to Chicago Midway Airport is typically 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of year, but on average, a one-way ticket can range from $100 to $300. It's important to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal.
There are a plethora of options for accommodation in and around Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of options based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at around $58 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodations in the city. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of downtown or in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, there are numerous hotel options available to cater to different needs and preferences.

Trips from Ann Arbor

Trips to Chicago