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Traverse City, MI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $20: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Traverse City, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Traverse City 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.

$20 - Bus, TrainBest price
362 kmDistance
3h 32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Traverse City 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  32m
Estimated price
$105-608
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  18m
Estimated price
$20-177
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 362 km
Duration: 3h 32m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$22-1050
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$83-280
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$345-858
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
9h  10m
Estimated price
$1051-1052
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  24m
Estimated price
$1053-1054
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Traveling From Traverse City to Chicago

The journey from Traverse City, known for its serene lakes and charming small-town atmosphere, to Chicago, a bustling metropolis with vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity, offers a blend of peaceful retreat and urban excitement.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions, perfect for exploring.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory.
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene on Armitage Avenue.
Wicker Park
• Known for its hipster culture and eclectic shops.
• Bustling nightlife with trendy bars and music venues.
The Loop
• Heart of Chicago's business district and iconic architecture.
• Easy access to Millennium Park and historical sites.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Chicago experience.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy quieter galleries and avoid crowds.
Navy Pier
Aim for mid-week visits in late afternoon for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Millennium Park
Visit during early mornings or late evenings for stunning views and fewer visitors.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making it vital to plan your visit according to the weather. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, ideal for exploring, while summer brings warmth and vibrant outdoor activities, and winter presents a frigid charm perfect for enjoying cozy indoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Chicago

In Chicago, don’t miss the chance to indulge in deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, where layers of gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce create a hearty experience different from Traverse City's fresh, farm-to-table offerings. The bustling atmosphere, combined with bold flavors and a variety of unique toppings, truly sets Chicago's culinary scene apart.

Traverse City - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Traverse City 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 Traverse City (TVC) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$1056-10540
Website
united.com

Plane from Traverse City (TVC) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$1056-6082
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Traverse City (TVC) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
$6086-6087
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$1770-1056

Train from Kalamazoo to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$200-201
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Traverse City Amtrak Bus Stop to Kalamazoo

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831
Website
indiantrails.com

Bus from Traverse City, MI to Grand Rapids, MI

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$1776-1777
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Kalamazoo Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$205-1053

Bus from Traverse City Amtrak Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 10m
Estimated price
$1051-1052

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

Traveling between Traverse City 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 an exciting road trip from Traverse City to Chicago covering a scenic driving distance of 319 miles. The journey promises beautiful landscapes and charming small towns along the way. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging between $55 to $85 for the drive from Traverse City to Chicago by car. Enjoy the flexibility of a road trip while keeping your expenses in check. 🏙️ Arrive in the vibrant city of Chicago after approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes of driving. Explore iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious food scene in the Windy City, making your road trip memorable and exciting.
Average price
$55 - $85
Useful tips for train travellers
• If you're traveling with Amtrak, take advantage of their onboard dining services. They offer a café car where you can purchase a variety of snacks and beverages, as well as hot meals during select routes. Seating is generally comfortable, so consider enjoying your meal while observing the beautiful countryside views.
• For your trip, Amtrak typically offers different seating classes. You can choose from Coach Class, which is budget-friendly with comfortable seats, to Business Class, which provides wider seats and more legroom. Check their website for seat selection options that best suit your needs.
• The primary operator for the Traverse City to Chicago route is Amtrak. You can find more information and schedules at their website: amtrak.com Additionally, local transport options in Chicago can be found at transitchicago.com for navigating the city's transit system.
🛫 Flying from Traverse City to Chicago is a quick and convenient travel option. American Airlines and United Airlines offer direct flights from Traverse City Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport, with a flight time of just 1 hour and 12 minutes. 🚗 The total duration of the journey by plane from Traverse City to Chicago is approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes. This efficient mode of transportation allows travelers to easily reach their destination in a reasonable amount of time. 💸 Flight prices between Chicago and Traverse City can range from $105 to $608, providing passengers with a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Booking in advance can often help secure the best deals for this route.
Departure Point
Traverse City Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus route from Traverse City to Chicago the journey with transfers takes approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes. 💰 Prices for the bus service between Traverse City and Chicago range from $33 to $158, providing budget-friendly transportation options for those traveling between the two cities.
Departure Point
Traverse City Amtrak Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Traverse City to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from Traverse City to Chicago is by taking a combination of bus and train. You can first take a bus from Traverse City to Grand Rapids, which usually costs between $20 and $40. From Grand Rapids, you can then catch a train to Chicago, with ticket prices ranging from $100 to $140. The total travel time for this journey is approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Traverse City to Chicago is by flying. There are direct flights available from Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport to Chicago O'Hare International Airport, with a flight duration of around 3 hours and 39 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $100 to $800 depending on the airline and booking time. It is recommended to check different airlines and booking options to find the best price and schedule for your travel.
The distance between Traverse City and Chicago is approximately 225 miles. If you are traveling by road, the distance is approximately 319.3 miles. The travel time may vary depending on the route and mode of transportation chosen. It is important to consider traffic conditions and plan accordingly for your journey.
The best way to travel from Traverse City to Chicago without a car is by taking a combination of bus and train. First, you can take a bus from Traverse City to Grand Rapids, which takes about 2 hours and costs around $20-$40. From there, you can catch a train from Grand Rapids to Chicago, which typically takes around 5-6 hours and costs approximately $30-$140. Overall, the journey takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes and provides a convenient and affordable option for non-drivers.
The journey from Traverse City to Chicago takes approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. The exact duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation and any potential delays. It is advisable to check the schedule of your chosen transportation method beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
There are numerous hotels available near Chicago with a wide range of prices. With over 1116 options to choose from, travelers can find accommodations to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $58 per night, offering a variety of choices for every traveler. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of accommodations available near Chicago.
Yes, you can drive from Traverse City to Chicago. The total driving distance is approximately 319 miles and it takes around 5 hours and 24 minutes to complete the journey. The route primarily follows US-131 South and I-94 West. However, please keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and any stops you make along the way.
Yes, there is a bus service available from Traverse City to Chicago, although it is not a direct route. The bus departs from Traverse City Amtrak Bus Stop and travels to Kalamazoo Bus Stop. From there, passengers will transfer to another bus that takes them to the Chicago Bus Station. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes.
To catch the bus from Traverse City to Chicago you will need to go to the Traverse City Amtrak Bus Stop station. This is the designated departure point for the bus service operated by Amtrak. Make sure to arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding.
The bus from Traverse City to Chicago arrives at the Chicago Bus Station. The Chicago Bus Station is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, making it easy to access other parts of the city. It is a convenient transportation hub with various connections to other forms of transportation, such as trains and taxis. Upon arrival at the Chicago Bus Station, travelers can easily explore the city's attractions or continue their journey to other destinations.
To get from Traverse City to Chicago there are several transportation options available. The cheapest way is to take a combination of bus and train via Grand Rapids, which costs between $20 and $180 and takes approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes. Another option is to fly, which is faster but generally more expensive. You can check for flights from Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport. It is recommended to compare prices and travel times to choose the option that best suits your preferences and budget.
United Airlines and American Airlines are the two major airlines that offer flights between Traverse City and Chicago. Both airlines operate regular flights from Traverse City Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. Travelers can check the airlines' websites or contact their customer service for more information on flight schedules and pricing for this route.
The fastest way to travel from Traverse City to Chicago is by taking a direct flight. The flight from Traverse City Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport typically takes 1 hour and 18 minutes. United Airlines and American Airlines offer flights on this route. The total travel time by plane is around 3 hours and 39 minutes. Prices for flights between Chicago and Traverse City range from $105 to $758.
The flight from Traverse City to Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes. This is for the quickest direct flight option available from Traverse City Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. Flight duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always a good idea to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight times.
The cost of a flight from Traverse City to Chicago can vary depending on factors such as airline, date of travel, and how far in advance you book. On average, prices range from $105 to $758. It is recommended to check with different airlines and use flight comparison websites to find the best deals and most affordable options for your travel dates.
The cost of driving from Traverse City to Chicago can range from $55 to $85, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include tolls or parking fees that may be incurred during the journey. It is also important to consider the duration of the trip, which can take approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic conditions and driving speed.

Trips from Traverse City

Trips to Chicago