Surprising Facts Revealed: Distance Between St Louis and Chicago

distance between st louis and chicago

Distance Between St Louis And Chicago

To be more precise, if you were to travel from downtown St. Louis to downtown Chicago, you would cover a distance of around 294 miles. This estimation considers the most direct route along Interstate 55 North.

Best Routes for Driving Between St Louis and Chicago

  1. I-55 N: This is the most direct route between the two cities, spanning approximately 296 miles. The journey primarily follows Interstate 55 North, taking you through beautiful landscapes as you pass by Springfield and Bloomington before reaching the Windy City.
  2. Historic Route 66: For those seeking a nostalgic adventure, traveling along Historic Route 66 is an exciting option. While it may be slightly longer than other routes at around 303 miles, this iconic roadway offers glimpses of classic Americana as you drive through quaint towns like Pontiac and Joliet.
  3. I-70 W & I-57 N: If you prefer a scenic drive with fewer tolls, consider taking Interstate 70 West followed by Interstate 57 North. This route spans approximately 314 miles and allows you to enjoy picturesque views of Illinois’ countryside as you make your way towards Chicago.

Flying Distance Between St Louis and Chicago

When it comes to traveling between two major cities like St Louis and Chicago, flying is often the preferred choice for many travelers due to its speed and convenience. Let’s take a closer look at the average flight duration from St Louis to Chicago.

The distance between St Louis and Chicago is approximately 300 miles (480 kilometers), making it a relatively short flight. On average, direct flights between these two cities have a flight duration of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, it’s important to note that this can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific route taken by the airline.

Many airlines operate frequent flights between St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and both O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) in Chicago. With multiple options available throughout the day, travelers have the flexibility to choose a departure time that suits their schedule.

Train Distance Between St Louis and Chicago

When it comes to traveling between St Louis and Chicago, taking a train is a popular choice for many travelers. The train provides a convenient and scenic way to cover the distance between these two vibrant cities. Let’s explore some of the train options available for this journey.

One of the primary rail services that operate between St Louis and Chicago is Amtrak. Amtrak offers several daily departures from both cities, allowing passengers to choose a time that suits their schedule. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the specific route chosen.

Amtrak offers different classes of service onboard their trains, including coach seating, business class, and first class accommodations. Each class provides varying levels of comfort and amenities, ensuring that passengers can find an option that meets their needs.

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the Amtrak’s “Superliner” trains offer private sleeping accommodations with beds, showers, and access to exclusive lounges. This option allows travelers to relax in privacy while enjoying breathtaking views along the way.

Bus Distance

When it comes to traveling between St Louis and Chicago, taking a bus is a convenient option. The distance between these two cities is approximately 297 miles, making it a relatively short journey by road. Let me break down some key details about the bus distance between St Louis and Chicago:

  1. Duration: On average, the bus journey from St Louis to Chicago takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. It’s important to note that travel times may vary based on factors such as departure time, stops along the way, and weather conditions.
  2. Bus Operators: Several reputable bus operators provide services for this route, offering comfortable and reliable transportation options for travelers. Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and Amtrak operate frequent buses with various departure times throughout the day.
  3. Ticket Prices: Bus fares can vary depending on factors such as booking time in advance, demand, and seat selection. Generally, prices range from $20-$40 per one-way ticket for standard seating options. It’s worth noting that certain amenities or upgrades may be available at an additional cost.
  4. Amenities: Most buses offer basic amenities such as air conditioning/heating systems, reclining seats with ample legroom, onboard restrooms (available on longer journeys), and free Wi-Fi access to keep you connected during your trip.
  5. Departure Points: In St Louis, buses usually depart from downtown terminals or designated bus stations conveniently located within the city center. Similarly in Chicago, arrival points are typically situated near downtown areas or major transportation hubs.