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Bloomington, MN, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $18: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Bloomington 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.

$18 by trainBest price
669 kmDistance
3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bloomington 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  14m
Estimated price
$225-408
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
9h  32m
Estimated price
$18-162
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 669 km
Duration: 3h 14m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$40-268
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  19m
Estimated price
$49-338
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
10h  8m
Estimated price
$64-2250
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
10h  28m
Estimated price
$2251-2252
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  47m
Estimated price
$2253-2254
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Traveling From Bloomington to Chicago

The journey from Bloomington to Chicago presents a captivating contrast, where Bloomington offers a tranquil, small-town atmosphere while Chicago buzzes with urban energy and cultural diversity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

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

Wicker Park
• Known for trendy boutiques and art galleries.
• Offers a lively nightlife scene with unique bars.
Lincoln Park
• Features beautiful parks and the Chicago Zoo.
• Home to diverse dining options and theaters.
The Loop
• Heart of Chicago's business and cultural activities.
• Surrounded by iconic architecture and museums.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Planning your visit to Chicago can enhance your experience at popular attractions.

Millennium Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Art Institute of Chicago
Weekdays are best; aim for late afternoons to enjoy quieter galleries.
Navy Pier
Visit during the off-peak hours of mid-week to avoid large crowds.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a varied climate, with cold winters and hot summers, making late spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather can significantly impact your travel plans, so being prepared for sudden changes is essential to enjoying all that the city has to offer.

Dining Recommendation

Try the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, a Chicago staple that showcases rich flavors and a hearty style that contrasts with Bloomington's more traditional fare. The bustling atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients in Chicago's culinary scene create a vibrant dining experience that's distinctly different from the cozy eateries in Bloomington.

Bloomington - Chicago operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$2255-400
Website
delta.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$4085-4086

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$4089-180
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from St. Paul-Minneapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
$4080-4081
Bus
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
badgerbus.com

Bus from Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$40-4087
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Station to Chicago Train Station

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$1620-2254
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
coachusa.com

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$1621-40
Other Show other routes
Website
united.com

Other from Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$4082-22510

Other from Minneapolis (MSP) to South Bend (SBN)

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
$4083-4084

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

Traveling between Bloomington 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 Bloomington to Chicago covering a distance of 416 miles. Enjoy the journey through the Midwest landscapes as you head towards the vibrant city of Chicago. 💸 The cost of driving from Bloomington to Chicago ranges from $75 to $110, offering a budget-friendly travel option for those looking to explore the city by car. Fill up your gas tank and hit the road for an affordable adventure. 🏙️ Arrive in the lively city of Chicago after approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes of driving. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in deep-dish pizza, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Windy City.
Average price
$75 - $110
🚂 Traveling by train from Bloomington to Chicago is a scenic and convenient journey that takes approximately 9 hours and 32 minutes. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Bloomington and Chicago range from $18 to $162, offering a variety of options for travelers based on their budget and preferences.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak Cardinal service between Bloomington and Chicago, you can enjoy a café car that offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. Be sure to check the menu online prior to your trip as offerings may change, and if you're in First Class, complimentary meals may be served to your seat.
• Amtrak offers several seating options on this route: Business Class with extra legroom and enhanced amenities, and Economy Class for standard seating. If you want to travel in comfort, consider upgrading to Business Class for larger seats and better service.
• While Amtrak is the primary operator for this route, other train services to consider include Metra for commuter trains. You can find more information on their respective websites: Amtrak (amtrak.com), and Metra (metrarail.com).
🛫 Flying from Minneapolis Airport to Chicago Midway Airport is a convenient option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 25 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route, offering travelers flexibility in scheduling. 🌆 Travelers departing from Bloomington can expect a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to reach vibrant Chicago by plane. The journey promises stunning aerial views and efficient transportation between these two bustling cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Bloomington and Chicago typically range from $225 to $408, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether for business or leisure, flying between these destinations offers a quick and comfortable travel experience.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Starting from Mall of America in Bloomington travelers can take a bus to Chicago with a duration of approximately 10 hours and 8 minutes including transfers. 🚌 The cost for a bus ticket from Bloomington to Chicago ranges from $64 to $94, offering a budget-friendly transportation option for those looking to explore the Windy City.
Departure Point
Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bloomington to Chicago.

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The distance between Bloomington and Chicago is 353 miles by air and 416 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 9 hours and 32 minutes to reach Chicago from Bloomington. By plane, the journey takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes. If you choose to drive, the travel time is approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes. Finally, by bus, it takes approximately 10 hours and 8 minutes to reach Chicago from Bloomington.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Bloomington to Chicago is by train, with tickets costing between $18 and $170. This is also the most time-efficient mode of transportation, taking around 9 hours and 32 minutes to reach Chicago. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to travel is by plane, with flights taking approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes and costing between $80 and $600.
The prices of a train ticket from Bloomington to Chicago can range from $18 to $169, depending on the type of seat and class chosen. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Chicago to Bloomington can vary from $64 to $94. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from Bloomington to Chicago without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is about 416 miles and it takes around 6 hours and 47 minutes to reach Chicago from Bloomington by car. The prices for car rental or using your own vehicle vary, ranging from $75 to $110. Driving offers you the freedom to travel at your own pace and provides the opportunity to explore the scenic route between the two cities.
If you prefer not to drive, there are a few options to travel from Bloomington to Chicago. The fastest option is to fly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes and costs between $80 and $600. Another option is to take the train, which takes around 9 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $18 and $170. Additionally, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 10 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $60 and $95.
Yes, there is a direct link between Bloomington and Chicago but there is no direct bus service. Alternative options are available, such as taking a train or flying. By train, the journey takes approximately 9 hours and 32 minutes. By plane, the travel time is approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes. By car, it takes about 6 hours and 47 minutes to drive from Bloomington to Chicago.
The flight between Bloomington and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary between $80 and $558. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals and availability for your travel dates.
There are many options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels available, you will have plenty of choices. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, so you can find something to suit your budget. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone in Chicago.

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