How to Get to Chicago from New York [2025 Guide] ✈️🚄🚌🚗

Traveling from New York City to Chicago in 2025 is simple, with multiple fast, scenic, and budget-friendly travel options available. Whether you prefer a quick flight, a scenic train ride, a budget bus trip, or a road trip adventure, this guide covers all the details for getting from NYC to Chicago smoothly and affordably.

✈️ By Air – Fastest Way to Get from NYC to Chicago

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Chicago from New York, with frequent daily departures from JFK, LGA, and EWR to both O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway Airport (MDW).

Airlines Operating Nonstop Flights in 2025:

• American Airlines – JFK/LGA to ORD
• Delta Air Lines – LGA/JFK to ORD
• United Airlines – EWR to ORD
• Southwest Airlines – LGA/EWR to MDW
• JetBlue Airways – JFK to ORD

Flight Time: ~2 hrs 40 mins nonstop.
Average Cost (2025): $120–$250 round trip if booked in advance; last-minute fares can reach $400+.
Tip: Early morning and late-night flights are often cheaper. Midweek bookings tend to be the most affordable.

🚄 By Train – Scenic and Comfortable Travel

Amtrak offers a direct long-distance service from New York Penn Station to Chicago Union Station via the Cardinal and Lake Shore Limited routes.

Route Options:

• Lake Shore Limited – NYC to Chicago (~19–20 hrs), running daily along the scenic Hudson River and Great Lakes.
• Cardinal – NYC to Chicago (~28 hrs), operating three times a week via Washington, D.C., and Cincinnati.

Cost (2025): $100–$200 one-way in coach; $350–$650 for sleeper accommodations.
Benefits: Spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and beautiful countryside views without the stress of airports.

🚌 By Bus – Budget-Friendly and Frequent

Buses are the cheapest way to travel from New York to Chicago, though they take longer than flights or trains.

Major Bus Operators in 2025:

• Greyhound – Multiple daily services from NYC Port Authority to Chicago Greyhound Station (~17–19 hrs).
• FlixBus – Direct and connecting routes to Chicago (~16–20 hrs).
• Megabus – Affordable direct routes from NYC to Chicago (~16–18 hrs).

Cost: $60–$120 one-way; discounts available for early bookings.

🚗 Driving from NYC to Chicago – Road Trip Adventure

Driving offers flexibility to explore cities along the way, such as Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Toledo.

Driving Distance: ~790 miles (1,270 km).
Driving Time: ~12–14 hrs without long stops.
Recommended Route: I-80 West for a direct path; I-76/I-70 for a more scenic detour.
Tolls: Expect around $60–$80 in tolls for the full journey.
Tip: Split the drive over two days for a more relaxed trip.

📅 Best Time to Travel from New York to Chicago

• Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather, great for sightseeing.
• Summer (July–August): Peak festival season but higher prices.
• Fall (September–October): Beautiful autumn colors and mild temperatures.
• Winter (November–February): Lowest airfare but cold weather in Chicago.

🧳 Travel Requirements in 2025

• ID: A government-issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license) is required for flights and most bus/train travel.
• Luggage: Check your airline, train, or bus policy to avoid extra baggage fees.

📌 FAQs

Q: What’s the fastest way to get from New York to Chicago?
A nonstop flight from NYC to Chicago takes about 2 hrs 40 mins and is the fastest travel option.

Q: How much is a flight from New York to Chicago in 2025?
Round-trip fares average $120–$250 when booked early, with last-minute prices often exceeding $400.

Q: Is there a train from NYC to Chicago?
Yes, Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited offers daily service, and the Cardinal runs three times a week.

Q: How far is Chicago from New York City by car?
The driving distance is about 790 miles, taking 12–14 hours without extended stops.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to get to Chicago from NYC?
Long-distance buses like Greyhound, FlixBus, and Megabus offer fares starting around $60.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re traveling for business, a weekend getaway, or a long vacation, getting from New York to Chicago in 2025 offers multiple convenient options. For speed, choose a nonstop flight; for scenery, opt for the train; for budget savings, take a bus; and for freedom, go on a road trip. Chicago’s vibrant food scene, architecture, and lakefront await you.

🔗 Trusted Sources

• Amtrak Official Website
• Greyhound Bus Lines
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)