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McAllen, TX, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $79: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from McAllen 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.

$79 - Night bus, trainBest price
2006 kmDistance
5h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from McAllen 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
5h  52m
Estimated price
$238-862
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
36h  26m
Estimated price
$79-448
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2006 km
Duration: 5h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
6h  33m
Estimated price
$204-602
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$219-682
Company
Greyhound, Tornado Bus Company
Bus
Average Duration
31h  35m
Estimated price
$269-2380
Company
FlixBus, Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
38h  37m
Estimated price
$2381-2382
Company
Self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
24h  25m
Estimated price
$2383-2384
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From McAllen to Chicago

Traveling from McAllen to Chicago offers a striking contrast from the warm, vibrant Mexican-American culture of South Texas to the bustling, cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Windy City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences, making exploration rewarding.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, free admission.
• Lush parks and stunning lakefront views.
Wicker Park
• Trendy shops and local eateries abound.
• Vibrant street art scene and nightlife.
The Loop
• Iconic skyscrapers and cultural landmarks nearby.
• Access to top museums and theaters.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits to Chicago's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Art Institute of Chicago
Try visiting on Thursday evenings for a quieter experience.
Navy Pier
Visit during weekdays, especially in the morning, for fewer visitors.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making it essential to plan your visit accordingly. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, while winter's chill and summer's heat can impact your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

While McAllen celebrates its vibrant Tex-Mex cuisine, Chicago presents a culinary adventure with its iconic deep-dish pizza, notably at Lou Malnati's. The rich, buttery crust and layers of gooey mozzarella create a hearty experience that contrasts sharply with the lighter, spice-forward dishes of McAllen, showcasing Chicago's unique use of local ingredients.

McAllen - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from McAllen (MFE) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
5h 52m
Estimated price
$238-862
Website
aa.com

Plane from McAllen (MFE) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
5h 53m
Estimated price
$8627-8620

Plane from Harlingen (HRL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$8622-8623
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Harlingen (HRL) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$2387-8623
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Antonio Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
30h 44m
Estimated price
$791-792

Train from San Marcos Amtrak to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
29h 12m
Estimated price
$4480-4481
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Mcallen Bus Station to Laredo Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$4484-791
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from Tornado Bus Co - Laredo, TX to Chicago

Average Duration
26h 13m
Estimated price
$795-4485
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Mcallen Bus Station to San Antonio Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$4487-2381

Bus from Mcallen Bus Station to San Marcos

Average Duration
8h 25m
Estimated price
$4488-4489
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
facebook.com | multitaxisseguros.com.mx | citytaxireynosa.com

Other from McAllen to Harlingen

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$2190-2191

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

Traveling between McAllen 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 road trip full of exciting adventures as you drive 1,460 miles from McAllen to the vibrant city of Chicago. Enjoy the scenic views and diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with car rental prices ranging from $260 to $390 for the journey from McAllen to Chicago. Plan your trip wisely to make the most out of your travel budget. 🏙️ Arrive in the bustling city of Chicago after approximately 24 hours and 25 minutes of driving. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and iconic landmarks that await you in the Windy City.
Average price
$260 - $390
🛫 Traveling from McAllen to Chicago by plane involves taking a flight with American Airlines or United Airlines, as there are no direct flights available. The quickest route includes one stopover and lasts approximately 5 hours. 🌆 Arriving at Chicago O'Hare Airport after a 5-hour and 52-minute flight from McAllen offers travelers a gateway into the vibrant city of Chicago. The bustling airport serves as a convenient hub for exploring the Windy City's attractions and landmarks. 💸 Prices for flights between McAllen and Chicago typically range from $238 to $862, providing travelers with various options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Whether for business or leisure, a journey from McAllen to Chicago offers a seamless way to experience the diverse culture and vibrant energy of the Midwest.
Departure Point
McAllen Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Expect your flight from McAllen to Chicago to have one stopover, typically in cities like Dallas or Houston, which may lead to varying total travel times; stay updated on connecting gate information to ensure a smooth transfer.
• Upon arriving at Chicago O'Hare Airport, follow the signs to the 'Transit' area where you can access the Airport Transit system to navigate to downtown quickly; be aware that peak times could lead to longer wait times for the Blue Line train.
• Taxi fares from O'Hare to downtown Chicago generally range between $40 to $60; consider rideshare options like Uber or Lyft for possibly lower fares and more convenience, especially if you're traveling with luggage.
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from McAllen to Chicago, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with multiple transfers. The route involves stops at key locations such as Tornado Bus Co in Laredo and California & 35th Street. 🌆 The total duration of the bus trip from McAllen to Chicago, including transfers, typically spans around 31 hours and 35 minutes. Passengers can expect a convenient and budget-friendly means of transportation between these two vibrant cities. 💸 Ticket prices for the McAllen to Chicago bus service can vary between $269 to $704, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences. Despite the long travel time, the scenic views and unique experiences along the way make this bus journey a memorable adventure.
Departure Point
Mcallen Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from McAllen to Chicago.

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The distance between McAllen and Chicago is approximately 1246 miles. If you prefer to drive, it would take approximately 24 hours and 25 minutes to reach McAllen from Chicago. Alternatively, taking a night bus followed by a train would take approximately 36 hours and 26 minutes. If you prefer to fly, it would take approximately 5 hours and 56 minutes to reach Chicago from McAllen. Another option is taking a bus, which would take approximately 30 hours and 11 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from McAllen to Chicago is to take a night bus and train, which can cost between $75 and $450. However, this option also takes the longest, with a travel time of approximately 36 hours and 26 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest way to travel is by flying, with a flight duration of around 5 hours and 56 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $190 to $1100.
The prices of a bus ticket between Chicago and McAllen range from $269 to $704. The cost of the ticket may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel and the chosen bus company. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and book in advance to get the best available price for the journey.
To get from McAllen to Chicago without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance is approximately 1460 miles and it takes around 24 hours and 25 minutes to reach Chicago by car. The prices for this journey can range from $260 to $390 depending on factors like gas prices and tolls.
To travel from McAllen to Chicago without a car, the easiest option is to take a bus. This journey typically takes around 30 hours and can cost between $260 and $750. Another option is to take a night bus to a train, which takes approximately 36 hours and 26 minutes. Alternatively, you can also choose to travel by plane, which has a travel time of around 5 hours and 56 minutes.
No, there is no direct link between McAllen and Chicago by bus. However, there are services available with transfers. The journey takes approximately 30 hours and 11 minutes, including transfers at Laredo California & 35th Street, and 35th/Archer Orange Line Station. The bus services are operated by Estrella del Norte and Tornado Bus Company.
The flight duration from McAllen to Chicago, with one stopover, typically takes about 5 hours and 3 minutes. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between McAllen Airport and Chicago O'Hare Airport. The cost of a flight between these two cities can vary between $198 and $1012, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Chicago with a range of prices to suit different budgets. There are over 1116 hotels available, starting at a reasonable price of $58 per night. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, boutique accommodations, and bed and breakfasts, ensuring there is something to meet everyone's needs. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from McAllen

Trips to Chicago