Travel from New York to Chicago

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Fly via
United Airlines
USD 117-400Approximately 2h 30m - 3h (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
Offers frequent direct flights from New York area airports to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
United operates out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and other New York airports, primarily serving Chicago O'Hare (ORD). Prices can fluctuate significantly based on booking time, demand, and fare class. It is advisable to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before domestic flights for check-in and security.
American Airlines
USD 125-400Approximately 2h 30m - 3h (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
Provides numerous direct flights connecting New York airports with Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
American Airlines serves Chicago O'Hare (ORD) from New York's major airports including JFK, LGA, and EWR. Booking in advance can help secure better fares. Expect variations in pricing depending on flexibility and specific travel dates.
Delta Air Lines
USD 117-370Approximately 2h 30m - 3h (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
A full-service carrier offering direct flights between New York and Chicago.
Delta operates flights from New York's LaGuardia (LGA) and JFK airports to Chicago O'Hare (ORD). Fares are generally higher for premium cabins and last-minute bookings.
Southwest Airlines
USD 125-340Approximately 2h 30m - 3h (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Several daily departuresArrive: Varies by departure
Known for its low-cost fares and flexible booking policies, offering direct services between the two cities.
Southwest typically flies from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). They are known for their 'bags fly free' policy (up to two checked bags).
Spirit Airlines
USD 70-225Approximately 2h 30m - 2h 45m (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Several daily departuresArrive: Varies by departure
An ultra-low-cost carrier providing budget-friendly direct flights.
Spirit offers basic fares with additional charges for seat selection, checked baggage, and carry-on bags. They serve various New York airports to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW).
Frontier Airlines
USD 60-310Approximately 2h 30m - 3h (nonstop flight time)
Depart: Several daily departuresArrive: Varies by departure
Another ultra-low-cost airline with direct flight options for budget travelers.
Similar to Spirit, Frontier offers very competitive base fares but charges for extras like baggage and seat assignments. They often fly from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Chicago Midway (MDW).
Train via
Amtrak
USD 110-550Approximately 19h 30m - 28h 30m
Depart: Multiple daily services, including overnight optionsArrive: Varies by departure
Amtrak offers scenic long-distance rail services connecting New York and Chicago.
The primary route is the Lake Shore Limited, taking around 19 hours and 30 minutes, departing from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in New York and arriving at Chicago Union Station. Other services, like the Cardinal, can take longer. Amenities typically include comfortable seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and a cafe car. Sleeper car options are available for an additional cost.
Bus via
Greyhound
USD 90-250Approximately 18h 30m - 26h
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
One of the largest intercity bus transportation providers in the United States, offering frequent services.
Greyhound buses depart from various locations in New York, including Port Authority Bus Terminal and Midtown, arriving at Chicago's main Greyhound Bus Station or other city stops. Services typically include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reclining seats.
FlixBus
USD 90-250Approximately 18h 30m - 26h
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
A popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, known for its extensive network and modern buses.
FlixBus operates numerous daily trips between New York and Chicago, often sharing routes with Greyhound. Onboard amenities generally include comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
Trailways
USD 198-250Approximately 22h - 27h
Depart: Several daily departuresArrive: Varies by departure
Offers comfortable bus services connecting New York and Chicago.
Trailways provides services from New York to Chicago with amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets. Some routes may involve transfers.
Drive via
Self-Drive
USD 120-180 (estimated fuel and tolls)Approximately 12-17 hours (actual driving time, not including stops)
Depart: FlexibleArrive: Flexible
Driving offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore sights along the way.
The driving distance is approximately 780-793 miles (1255-1276 km). Major routes typically involve Interstate 80 East. Tolls are prevalent on several sections of the journey, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. Fuel costs are estimates and depend on vehicle efficiency and current gas prices. Consider planning for at least one overnight stop to break up the long journey. Traffic in and around both New York City and Chicago can significantly impact travel time.
Plan activities, hotels, and more around this journey
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