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East Lansing, MI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $9: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
East Lansing, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from East Lansing to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$9 by trainBest price
277 kmDistance
2h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from East Lansing 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
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  15m
Estimated price
$188-406
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$9-111
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 277 km
Duration: 2h 15m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$40-1880
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$82-409
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$209-395
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Traveling From East Lansing to Chicago

The journey from East Lansing to Chicago offers you the chance to step from a cozy college town into a vibrant urban scene filled with cultural landmarks and culinary delights.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago’s neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and attractions for visitors.

Wicker Park
• Trendy shops and local boutiques abound.
• Vibrant nightlife with live music venues.
Lincoln Park
• Beautiful parks and scenic lakefront views.
• Home to the famous Lincoln Park Zoo.
South Loop
• Close proximity to museums and cultural institutions.
• Stunning skyline views from waterfront parks.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Maximize your Chicago experience by visiting attractions at the right times.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit on weekdays during the morning for a quieter, more focused experience.
Millennium Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds and a peaceful stroll.
Navy Pier
Go on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons, for more space to enjoy.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a mix of four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters, making the timing of your visit crucial for enjoying outdoor activities. Generally, spring and fall are ideal for comfortable temperatures, while winter's frigid conditions might require cozy indoor plans.

Dining Recommendation

While East Lansing offers hearty comfort food, Chicago stands out with its deep-dish pizza, a rich, cheesy delight that showcases local ingredients and bold flavors. Enjoying a slice at a bustling pizzeria like Lou Malnati's immerses you in the city's lively atmosphere, making for a dining experience that's vibrant and distinct.

East Lansing - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Lansing (LAN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$1888-1889

Plane from Flint (FNT) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$18840-4060
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from East Lansing Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
3h 51m
Estimated price
$1884-1885
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 517-333-0400
Website
michiganflyer.com

Bus from East Lansing, MI to Detroit Metro Airport

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$9-4064
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 517-803-4994
Website
payless-taxi.com

Taxi from East Lansing to Flint

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$1881-94
Contact phone
+1 517-215-7910
Website
icablansing.com

Taxi from East Lansing to Flint

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$1881-94

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

Traveling between East Lansing 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 East Lansing to Chicago, spanning 220 miles of diverse landscapes and charming Midwest towns. The journey promises a delightful mix of urban skylines and rural vistas along the way. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $40 to $60 for the trip by car from East Lansing to Chicago. Set your budget and explore the flexibility of self-driving to make the most of your travel experience. 🌆 Arrive in the vibrant city of Chicago after a 3-hour and 42-minute drive from East Lansing, ready to immerse yourself in iconic attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the renowned culinary scene. Experience the best of the Windy City at your own pace, all from the comfort of your car.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from East Lansing to Chicago spanning approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful Midwest landscapes rolling by. 💰 Tickets for the train ride between East Lansing and Chicago are affordably priced, ranging from $9 to $111, making it a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation for travelers of all budgets.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check the onboard catering services available on Amtrak's Wolverine service, which runs from East Lansing to Chicago. You'll find a café car offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. Make sure to check the menu ahead of time on the Amtrak website to see if there are any vegetarian or specialty options that suit your preferences. You can visit their site at amtrak.com
• For seating options, Amtrak offers three classes on the Wolverine service: Business Class, Coach Class, and First Class. Business Class provides wider seats and more legroom, while Coach Class is more economical but still comfortable. If you're looking for an enhanced experience, consider purchasing Business Class tickets for added comfort. For more details, check their seating options at amtrak.com
• Upon your arrival at Chicago Union Station, you'll find that luggage storage is available through Amtrak's partnership with Luggage Forward, allowing you to explore the city without dragging your bags. The station features clean restrooms, but there are no shower facilities. To navigate from Union Station to the city center quickly, take the CTA 'L' trains - the Blue Line from UIC-Halsted Station is one of the fastest routes. For more details on local transport schedules, visit the CTA website at transitchicago.com
🛫 Flying from East Lansing to Chicago is a convenient and quick journey. The direct flight from Lansing Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport takes just 1 hour and 14 minutes with American Airlines. ✈️ The total travel time from East Lansing to Chicago by plane is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This efficient mode of transportation allows travelers to reach their destination in a timely manner and enjoy more time exploring Chicago. 💸 Flight prices between Chicago and East Lansing range from $188 to $406, providing travelers with options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Booking in advance can often secure better deals for this popular route.
Departure Point
Lansing Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Starting from East Lansing it takes approximately 8 hours and 26 minutes to reach Chicago by bus, covering a distance of 325 miles with a transfer along the way. 🚌 The first step involves boarding a bus towards Detroit Metro Airport, a journey of about 1 hour and 25 minutes, operated by Michigan Flyer. The second leg towards Chicago Bus Station lasts around 5 hours and 40 minutes, departing from Ann Arbor and serviced by Greyhound. 🚌 For a longer but scenic route, there is an option taking 12 hours and 1 minute, covering 429 miles with three transfers. Starting with Michigan Flyer towards Detroit Metro Airport, then changing buses towards Detroit and finally heading to Chicago with a stop in Toledo before reaching the Greyhound Bus Station.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your departure from East Lansing, consider grabbing a coffee or breakfast from the East Lansing Marriott where the Michigan Flyer departs; they have a café that opens early and is perfect for fueling up before your journey.
• Once you arrive at Blake Transit Center in Ann Arbor, check the schedules for the Greyhound bus to Chicago; these buses can fill up quickly, and you’ll want to secure your spot for the approximately 5 hour 40 minute ride. You can find schedules here: greyhound.com
• Upon arriving at the Greyhound Station in Chicago, navigate the expansive terminal by following the signs to the exit; if you need local transit, the CTA buses and trains are located just outside the station, making it easy to reach your final destination in the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from East Lansing to Chicago.

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The distance between East Lansing and Chicago is approximately 172 miles by air and 220 miles by road. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation. It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to fly, 5 hours and 3 minutes by train, and 3 hours and 42 minutes by car. If taking a combination of bus and flight, the travel time is around 4 hours and 50 minutes. For those who prefer buses, the journey can take up to 8 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from East Lansing to Chicago is by train, which costs $9-$120 and takes 5h 3m. This is a great option for those on a budget who are not in a rush to reach their destination. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which costs $160-$410 and takes 2h 20m. This is ideal for travelers who want to reach Chicago as quickly as possible.
The prices for a train journey from East Lansing to Chicago range from $9 to $111, depending on factors such as departure time and class of service. Similarly, the prices for a bus trip between Chicago and East Lansing can vary between $29 and $155, depending on various factors. It is advisable to check the specific fares and schedules of different transportation providers to find the most suitable and cost-effective option for your travel.
To travel from East Lansing to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 220 miles. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 42 minutes by car. The cost of driving from East Lansing to Chicago can vary between $40 and $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from East Lansing to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes and costs between $9 and $120. Another option is to fly, which takes 2 hours and 20 minutes with prices ranging from $160 to $410. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus, which takes about 8 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $28 and $160.
There is no direct bus link between East Lansing and Chicago. However, there are bus services operated by Michigan Flyer and Indian Trails, which involve transfers and can take approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes. Another option is to take a train from East Lansing to Chicago, which takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly from East Lansing to Chicago, with a travel time of around 2 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight between East Lansing and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes. However, please note that flight durations can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and aircraft used. As for the cost, prices for flights between Chicago and East Lansing range from $168 to $406, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is always best to check with specific airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date flight duration and cost information.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels available, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $58, so there are affordable options for those on a tighter budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly options, you can easily find a place to stay in Chicago.

Trips to Chicago