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Buffalo, NY, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $31: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Buffalo 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.

$31 by trainBest price
864 kmDistance
3h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Buffalo 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  53m
Estimated price
$103-187
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, VIA Rail
Train
Average Duration
11h  50m
Estimated price
$31-257
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 864 km
Duration: 3h 53m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
12h  20m
Estimated price
$56-1030
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$57-410
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  9m
Estimated price
$57-380
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$103-337
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  57m
Estimated price
$1031-1032
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Traveling From Buffalo to Chicago

Traveling from Buffalo to Chicago offers a striking contrast: Buffalo’s charming waterfront and rich history contrast beautifully with Chicago’s vibrant skyline and dynamic cultural scene.

Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm.

Wicker Park
• Trendy shops and local boutiques abound.
• Vibrant nightlife and music scene draw crowds.
Lincoln Park
• Expansive park with lakeside views.
• Family-friendly attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Loop
• Heart of Chicago’s bustling business district.
• Home to iconic architecture and cultural venues.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Navigating Chicago’s attractions can be a breeze with the right timing.

Millennium Park
Visit early morning on weekdays for fewer tourists and tranquil views.
Art Institute of Chicago
Plan your visit during late afternoons for a quieter experience.
Navy Pier
Go on weekdays, especially before noon, to dodge weekend crowds.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the best times to visit. Weather can significantly influence your plans, from outdoor festivals in summer to cozy indoor activities during the chilly months.

Dining Recommendation

In Chicago, don't miss the chance to indulge in a deep-dish pizza, which presents a rich, gooey cheese and robust sauce unlike anything you'll find in Buffalo's wing-centric fare. The lively atmosphere of a local pizzeria, combined with the use of fresh, local ingredients, offers a distinct culinary chapter that contrasts beautifully with Buffalo's more traditional dining scene.

Buffalo - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Buffalo (BUF) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 47m
Estimated price
$1038-1871

Plane from Buffalo (BUF) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 6m
Estimated price
$310-1877
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Buffalo Depew Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
10h 33m
Estimated price
$1039-1870

Train from Buffalo to Rochester

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$316-317
Contact phone
+1 888 842-7245
Website
viarail.ca

Train from Buffalo to Rochester

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$3371-2574
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Buffalo to Cleveland Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$3161-2575

Bus from Cleveland Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$2570-1031
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Cleveland to Chicago

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
$311-2574
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Buffalo to Chicago

Average Duration
8h 57m
Estimated price
$1031-1032

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

Traveling between Buffalo 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 Buffalo 🌆 to Chicago 🏙️ covering a distance of 536 miles. Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way as you head towards the vibrant city of Chicago. ⛽ Fuel up for the journey as prices to drive from Buffalo to Chicago range from $95 to $150. Plan your pit stops wisely to refuel and recharge before reaching the bustling streets of the Windy City. 🌇 Explore the rich culture and iconic attractions of Chicago like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and deep-dish pizza joints after a thrilling 8 hours and 57 minutes drive from Buffalo. Immerse yourself in the charm of the Midwest as you create unforgettable memories on this road trip.
Average price
$95 - $150
🚂 Traveling from Buffalo to Chicago by train involves a journey of approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. Although there is no direct train route, you can take the service departing from Buffalo Depew Station. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train between Buffalo and Chicago can range from $31 to $257, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets to experience this rail adventure. Pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable train journey from Buffalo to the Windy City.
Departure Point
Buffalo Depew Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your Buffalo to Chicago train trip, check out the onboard catering services offered by Amtrak. They provide a variety of meal options in the dining car, including fresh meals, snacks, and beverages. You can also purchase snacks and light meals from the cafe car, which is typically available throughout the journey. If you're looking for vegetarian or gluten-free options, be sure to inform the staff when you order.
• When traveling from Buffalo to Chicago, Amtrak provides several seating options, including Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach seats are comfortable with lots of legroom and offer access to the cafe car. Business Class offers wider seats and complimentary beverages, while First Class provides more luxurious seating with exclusive access to the dining car and better service. If you're looking for a quiet space to work or relax, consider upgrading to Business Class.
• For your upcoming trip, you can travel with Amtrak (amtrak.com) or check out the route by Greyhound (greyhound.com) for additional options. Both operators provide services between Buffalo and Chicago, but Amtrak tends to offer a more comfortable experience with wider seating and dining options. Be sure to visit their websites for the latest schedules and ticket prices.
• Upon your arrival at Chicago Union Station, be aware that luggage storage is available for a fee at the Amtrak Station Luggage Room if you need to explore the city without your bags. You can also find restrooms throughout the station, but note that there are no shower facilities. The station is well-marked, and the staff are available to help you navigate.
• To get quickly from Chicago Union Station to the city center, the fastest option is the 'L' train. You can take the Pink Line or the Blue Line directly from the station. The Pink Line will take you to the 18th and Damen station in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare options are readily available right outside the station for a more direct route to your final destination.
🛫 Flying from Buffalo to Chicago is quick and convenient with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 45 minutes. Southwest Airlines operates flights from Buffalo Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, providing a hassle-free travel option. 🌆 Upon arrival in Chicago, after just under 4 hours of travel time from Buffalo, you'll find yourself in the vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, deep-dish pizza, and bustling cultural scene. 💸 Prices for flights between Chicago and Buffalo typically range from $103 to $187, making it a relatively affordable journey for those looking to explore the Windy City from upstate New York.
Departure Point
Buffalo Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Starting from Buffalo your bus journey to Chicago involves a transfer in Cleveland and takes approximately 12 hours and 20 minutes. The bus service is operated by Greyhound USA. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 566 miles and offers various options with different durations. Prices for the trip range from $56 to $155. A common route includes a bus from Buffalo to Cleveland and then another bus from Cleveland to Chicago.
Departure Point
Buffalo station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the transfer times in Cleveland carefully, as delays can happen; make sure you have at least 30 minutes between your connecting buses to avoid missing your connection.
• Since the journey from Buffalo to Chicago takes about 12 hours and 20 minutes, pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to save money and stay refreshed; some good options include granola bars and fruit.
• Upon arriving at the Chicago Bus Station, exit the bus and look for signs directing you to the 'Greyhound Customer Service' area, where you can find resources for getting around the city, including transit maps and ticketing for local transportation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Buffalo to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from Buffalo to Chicago is by taking a train. Amtrak operates a daily train service between the two cities, with ticket prices ranging from $30 to $260 depending on the type of seat or sleeper accommodations chosen. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 44 minutes, offering a comfortable and affordable option for travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Buffalo to Chicago is by flying. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes. The cost for a flight ticket can range from $90 to $600, depending on factors such as the airline, travel dates, and booking time. It's worth checking different airlines for the best deals and flexibility in scheduling.
It is 454 miles from Buffalo to Chicago. The driving distance is approximately 536.1 miles, depending on the route you take. If you opt to fly, the air distance between the two cities is around 433 miles. These distances may vary depending on the specific starting and ending points.
The best way to travel from Buffalo to Chicago without a car is by taking a train. Amtrak offers a direct route that takes approximately 11 hours and 44 minutes. Prices for train tickets range from $30 to $260, depending on the time and class of service chosen. This option allows you to enjoy the scenic journey and bypass the hassle of driving or flying.
The quickest way to get from Buffalo to Chicago is by flying, which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Some airlines that offer this route include American Airlines and United Airlines. The price for a one-way flight can vary, but it typically ranges from $70 to $200, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The cheapest way to travel from Buffalo to Chicago is by train, with tickets costing between $30 and $260. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 44 minutes. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which is the fastest option, taking around 3 hours and 46 minutes with prices ranging from $90 to $600. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 12 hours and costs between $55 and $160.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chicago. There are over 1116 hotels to choose from, catering to various budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Buffalo to Chicago. The driving distance is approximately 536 miles, which takes around 8 hours and 57 minutes to complete. Keep in mind that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route chosen. It's advisable to plan your trip accordingly and make sure your vehicle is in good condition for a long drive.
Yes, there is no direct bus service from Buffalo to Chicago. However, there are buses available that require transfers. To travel by bus, you would need to take a bus from Buffalo Metro Transportation Center to Cleveland Bus Station, and then transfer to a bus that goes from Cleveland to Chicago. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 12 hours.
You can catch the bus from Buffalo to Chicago at the Buffalo Metro Transportation Center station. This is the main bus station in Buffalo and is conveniently located in downtown. Greyhound USA operates bus services between the two cities, providing a reliable and convenient transportation option for your journey.
The Buffalo to Chicago bus services, operated by Greyhound USA, arrive at the Chicago Bus Station. The Chicago Bus Station is located at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago 60607. This is a convenient location in downtown Chicago, providing easy access to various attractions and transportation options. Passengers can easily continue their journey from the bus station using public transportation or by arranging other means of transportation.
To get to Chicago from Buffalo Airport, you have a few options. The most convenient and quickest way is to take a direct flight from Buffalo to one of the airports in Chicago, such as O'Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a combination of ground transportation and train. You can take a bus or taxi from Buffalo Airport to Buffalo Exchange Street Station, and then board an Amtrak train to Chicago Union Station. The train journey takes around 8-9 hours, depending on the specific train you choose.
Delta and Southwest Airlines are the airlines that offer flights from Buffalo to Chicago. Delta Airlines provides flights from Buffalo Airport to Chicago O'Hare International Airport, while Southwest Airlines operates flights from Buffalo Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. Both airlines offer multiple flights a day, providing travelers with options for their journey from Buffalo to Chicago.
The fastest way to travel from Buffalo to Chicago is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from Buffalo Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines offer flights between the two cities. The flight duration from Buffalo to Chicago is around 3 hours and 46 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $93 to $557 depending on the airline and time of travel.
The flight from Buffalo to Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes on a direct flight. However, this can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations.
Trains from Buffalo to Chicago arrive at Chicago Union Station. This is the main train station in Chicago and is located in the West Loop neighborhood. Chicago Union Station is a convenient and centrally located hub, making it easy to access other parts of the city from there. It is a historic landmark with beautiful architecture and offers various amenities for travelers.
Yes, there is no direct train between Buffalo and Chicago. However, you can take a train from Buffalo to Chicago with a transfer at Buffalo Depew Station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 44 minutes. Once you arrive at Chicago Union Station, you can explore the city and its attractions.
To catch the train from Buffalo to Chicago you will need to go to the Buffalo Depew Station. This is the station where Amtrak operates the train services between the two cities. Make sure to arrive at the station ahead of your departure time to ensure a smooth journey. Once you arrive at Chicago you can continue your onward travel plans from there.
The cost of a flight from Buffalo to Chicago can range from $93 to $557, depending on factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and the availability of deals or promotions. It is always recommended to compare prices across different airlines and booking websites to find the best deal. Additionally, traveling during off-peak times or being flexible with your travel dates can often help in finding cheaper flights.
The cost of a train ticket from Buffalo to Chicago ranges from $31 to $256. The price can vary depending on factors such as the class of service, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance to secure the best rates.
The cost of a bus ticket from Buffalo to Chicago can range from $56 to $155. The price difference is often due to factors such as the time and day of travel, as well as the operator. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost to drive from Buffalo to Chicago can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and the type of vehicle you are driving. On average, the cost can range from $95 to $150 for a one-way trip. It's important to consider additional expenses such as tolls and parking fees when calculating the total cost of driving.

Trips from Buffalo

Trips to Chicago