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New York City, NY, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $40: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
New York City, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from New York 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.

$40 by trainBest price
1150.5 kmDistance
4h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New York 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
4h  43m
Estimated price
$100-665
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
19h  32m
Estimated price
$40-290
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1150.5 km
Duration: 4h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$46-812
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$85-515
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
21h 
Estimated price
$86-231
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$95-510
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$100-436
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  10m
Estimated price
$119-170
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  56m
Estimated price
$132-408
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
13h  6m
Estimated price
$140-210
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From New York to Chicago

Your journey from New York to Chicago offers a striking blend of bustling urban energy, iconic skyscrapers, and dynamic neighborhoods in Chicago, contrasting the fast-paced lifestyle and cultural hub that is New York.

Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Wicker Park
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and live music.
• Trendy boutiques and eclectic dining options.
Lincoln Park
• Beautiful parks and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Rich history with stunning architecture.
The Loop
• Home to iconic skyscrapers and Millennium Park.
• Central hub for shopping and theatre experiences.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can make a significant difference in your Chicago experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early on a weekday to enjoy the serenity of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion before the crowds arrive.
Field Museum
Aim for a late afternoon visit on weekdays to explore exhibits with fewer visitors.
Navy Pier
Visit during weekdays in the morning to experience attractions without long lines.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and hot summers; the best times to visit are typically spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Weather can impact your travel experience, influencing outdoor activities and events throughout the year.

Dining Recommendation

A visit to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without trying deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where the hearty layers of cheese and toppings create a comforting, indulgent experience that differs greatly from New York's classic thin crust. The local emphasis on fresh ingredients and a cozy, inviting atmosphere adds a distinct flavor to your dining experience that sets Chicago apart from the bustling New York food scene.

New York City - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between New York City 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 New York La Guardia to Chicago Midway

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$110-600
Website
delta.com

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
$120-380

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago Midway via Detroit

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$150-490
Website
united.com

Plane from Newark to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$110-600
Website
aa.com

Plane from New York La Guardia to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
$95-490
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from New York Penn Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
19h 32m
Estimated price
$40-290
Contact phone
877.690.5114
Website
mta.info

Train from Grand Central Terminal to White Plains

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$9-21
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Baltimore Downtown Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$21-60

Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
16h 40m
Estimated price
$80-170
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
$30-80
Contact phone
+1 917.288.6888
Website
skyhorsebus.com

Bus from New York, NY to Columbus, OH

Average Duration
6h 43m
Estimated price
$88-90
Contact phone
1-800-343-9999
Website
peterpanbus.com

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Baltimore Downtown Bus Terminal

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$5-65

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

Traveling between New York 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 a thrilling road trip from the bustling streets of New York to the vibrant cityscape of Chicago. Traverse a distance of 794 miles, soaking in the diverse landscapes and changing scenery along the way. 💰 Indulge in the freedom of the open road with prices ranging from $140 to $210 for the journey from New York to Chicago by car. Enjoy the flexibility to explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks at your own pace, making unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. ⏱️ Spend approximately 13 hours and 6 minutes on this unforgettable road adventure, experiencing the heartland of America as you make your way from the East Coast to the Midwest. From urban skylines to charming small towns, let the journey be as exciting as the destination itself.
Average price
$140 - $210
Useful tips for car travellers
• As you drive from New York to Chicago, plan your gas stops around the I-80 corridor, where prices typically range from $3.30 to $3.80 per gallon; use apps like GasBuddy to find the best deals along the way.
• Be aware that upon arrival in Chicago, daily parking fees in the downtown area can range from $20 to $50; consider using public transportation or parking further from downtown to save on costs, especially as many streets may have restricted parking zones.
• While driving in Chicago, familiarize yourself with the city's grid layout and pay attention to local traffic laws; for instance, do not block intersections, as this can lead to fines, and use navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and lane guidance.
🚆 Traveling by train from New York 🗽 to Chicago 🌆 is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs from New York Penn Station 🚉 and arrives at Chicago Union Station 🚉, with a travel time of approximately 19 hours 32 minutes. 🛤️ The train ride covers a distance of 959 miles, offering passengers a comfortable and relaxed way to experience the changing landscapes between the bustling East Coast and the vibrant Midwest. With daily services, travelers can enjoy the views and amenities onboard while heading towards the Windy City. 💵 Ticket prices for the train between New York and Chicago can range from $40 to $290, providing options for various budgets. Whether choosing the direct route or a slightly longer journey with transfers, passengers can look forward to a memorable train adventure through the heart of America.
Departure Point
New York Penn Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On board your train from New York to Chicago, Amtrak offers a variety of catering services. In the Amtrak Cardinal service, there's a Café Car with pre-packaged snacks, sandwiches, and beverages available for purchase. Additionally, if you book a First Class seat, you'll have access to complimentary meals served in the dining car. Be sure to check Amtrak's website for the latest menu options.
• On this route, Amtrak provides several seating options. The seating categories include Business Class, which offers larger seats and more legroom, Economy Class with standard seating, and First Class for the ultimate comfort and exclusivity, featuring spacious seating and better service. Review the seating layout on Amtrak's website to choose the best option for your journey.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. Visit their website at ">">amtrak.com for schedules, fares, and book your tickets. Other relevant operators might include private rail services for specific routes, but Amtrak is the most common choice for New York to Chicago. For local transport in Chicago, the CTA website at ">">transitchicago.com provides useful links for bus and train schedules.
🛫 Flying from New York's LaGuardia Airport to Chicago's Midway Airport is a convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 2 hours and 25 minutes. Delta and Southwest Airlines are among the carriers that provide this route. 🌆 The journey from the bustling city of New York to the vibrant city of Chicago by air takes approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes. This allows travelers to swiftly move between these two iconic urban destinations. 💰 Flight prices between Chicago and New York can range from $100 to $665, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets for those looking to explore these dynamic cities.
Departure Point
New York La Guardia Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking an early morning flight, as New York LaGuardia Airport can experience heavy afternoon delays that may affect your 2h 25m direct flight to Chicago Midway, especially during peak travel times.
• Upon arriving at Chicago Midway Airport, familiarize yourself with the airport layout by consulting the interactive maps available at the terminal; this will help you efficiently locate baggage claim and exit to ground transportation.
• Expect taxi fares from Midway to downtown Chicago to range between $30 to $40, plus potential fees for tolls and tips; consider alternatives like the CTA Orange Line train for a cost-effective and convenient ride into the city.
🚌 Traveling from New York to Chicago by bus involves a journey of approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes with transfers en route. 🛣️ The bus route from New York to Chicago covers a distance of 968 miles, and travelers can expect different schedules and durations based on the route they choose to take. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Chicago and New York range from $119 to $170, offering travelers budget-friendly options for their journey across states.
Departure Point
Port Authority Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the transfer schedules carefully; on your route from New York to Chicago, you may have to change buses in cities like Columbus, OH or Indianapolis, IN, so plan for a possible wait time between connections.
• Bring along snacks and entertainment for the long journey; not only is the travel time around 15 hours and 10 minutes, but food options during your stops may be limited, especially if you are stopping at smaller terminals.
• Upon arrival at the Chicago Bus Station, utilize the nearby public transit options to navigate the city; the station is conveniently located near the 'Washington/Wells' train station where you can catch the blue or brown line to various destinations in the city. For detailed transit schedules, visit the Chicago Transit Authority website at transitchicago.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New York City to Chicago.

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The cheapest way to travel from New York to Chicago is by train. Amtrak offers several options, including the Lake Shore Limited, which takes approximately 19 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $40 and $290, depending on the type of accommodation. This option allows you to enjoy scenic views and a comfortable journey while saving money compared to flying or driving.
The fastest way to travel from New York to Chicago is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes to fly between the two cities. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $90 to $700, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to find the best deal for your travel.
It is approximately 715 miles from New York to Chicago. The road distance is slightly longer, at 794 miles. This journey can be completed by car, bus, train, or plane, depending on personal preference and budget. The travel time will vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen, with the fastest option being a 2-hour flight.
To travel from New York to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a bus. There are several bus companies that provide services from New York to Chicago with various departure times. The journey usually takes around 15 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the bus ticket can range from $14 to $150, depending on the time of travel and the bus company chosen.
The average duration of a trip from New York to Chicago is around 4 hours and 31 minutes, including transfers. The most common mode of transportation for this route is by plane, which offers a direct flight with a travel time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternative options such as driving or taking a bus may take longer, depending on traffic conditions and other factors. It's always recommended to check for the latest travel information and plan accordingly.
The quickest way to travel from New York to Chicago is by flying, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours 31 minutes. Flights range in price from $90 to $700 depending on the airline and time of booking. Another option is taking a bus, which typically takes around 15 hours 15 minutes and costs between $14 and $150, with transfers in places like Ithaca. Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey, which takes approximately 19 hours 32 minutes and costs between $40 and $290.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, offering a range of affordable and luxury options. You can browse through various online travel websites to find the perfect hotel that meets your needs and make your reservation in advance to secure the best deal.
Yes, you can drive from New York to Chicago. The distance between the two cities is approximately 794 miles. The drive takes approximately 13 hours and 6 minutes, depending on traffic and the route you choose to take. Make sure to plan for rest stops and consider the cost of gas and tolls along the way.
Yes, there is a bus route from New York to Chicago. However, there is no direct bus available for this route. The bus services usually involve transfers, such as passing through Ithaca before arriving at Chicago. The total journey time can take around 15 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers.
You can catch the bus from New York to Chicago at the New York Port Authority station. Greyhound USA operates bus services from this station. Please note that schedules and availability may vary, so it is advisable to check the Greyhound website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on bus departures from New York to Chicago.
The bus from New York to Chicago arrives at the Chicago Bus Station. This is the main bus terminal in Chicago and is conveniently located in the city center. Greyhound USA operates the bus service and provides a comfortable and affordable option for travel between these two cities. The Chicago Bus Station is well-connected to other transportation options, making it easy for travelers to reach their final destination in the city.
Southwest Airlines is the primary airline that offers flights between New York and Chicago. They operate flights from New York La Guardia Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. It's recommended to check the airline's website or a flight search engine for the most up-to-date schedule and pricing information. Other airlines may also offer flights on this route, so it's worth exploring different options to find the best deal for your travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from New York to Chicago is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from New York La Guardia Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, which takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights between these two airports, with prices ranging from $90 to $665. Overall, it takes about 4 hours and 31 minutes to reach Chicago from New York by plane.
The flight from New York to Chicago typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes on a direct flight. However, flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date and accurate flight duration.
Trains from New York to Chicago arrive at Chicago Union Station. This is the main train station in downtown Chicago and is conveniently located near many popular attractions and hotels. Chicago Union Station is a historic building with beautiful architecture, making it a noteworthy landmark for visitors to see. From here, travelers can easily access public transportation or continue their journey by taxi or rideshare services.
Yes, there is a direct train between New York and Chicago. The train departs from New York Penn Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The service operates once daily, every day, and the journey takes approximately 19 hours and 32 minutes. It is a convenient option for travelers who prefer a direct route.
To catch the train from New York to Chicago you will need to go to New York Penn Station. This is where Amtrak operates its train services for this route. Be sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station in advance to allow enough time for boarding.
The cost of a flight from New York to Chicago can range from $90 to $665, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel. It is always advisable to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to secure the best fares. Additionally, be sure to check for any baggage fees or additional charges that may apply to your flight.
The cost of a train ticket from New York to Chicago can range from $40 to $290. The variation in price is due to factors such as the class of service, type of train, and time of travel. It is recommended to book your train ticket in advance to secure the best possible price.
The cost of a bus ticket from New York to Chicago can vary depending on the bus company and the type of ticket you choose. On average, prices range from $14 to $141. Keep in mind that prices may fluctuate depending on the date and time of travel. It is recommended to book your bus ticket in advance to secure the best fares.
The cost of driving from New York to Chicago can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and the type of vehicle you are driving. On average, you can expect to spend between $140 and $210 for the round trip. This estimate includes the cost of gas and tolls along the way. Keep in mind that this estimate may change based on current gas prices and any additional expenses you may incur during the trip, such as food or accommodations. It is always a good idea to budget extra for unexpected expenses.

Trips from New York City

Trips to Chicago