To get around in Illinois, you can use a variety of transportation options, including international and domestic airports, an extensive rail network, buses, and city transportation systems, as well as driving on the state's well-maintained roads.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Illinois is easily accessible by air, with two major international airports, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), both located in the Chicago area. O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and offers direct flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. Chicago Midway International Airport is a smaller airport that serves as a hub for low-cost carriers and offers direct flights to many cities in the United States. If you're traveling by land, you can enter Illinois from neighboring states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin, via several major highways, including Interstate 55, Interstate 57, Interstate 64, Interstate 70, Interstate 74, Interstate 80, and Interstate 90.
In addition to air travel, you can also enter Illinois by bus or train. Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, offer routes to cities in Illinois from neighboring states and beyond. Amtrak, the national rail service, also offers routes to Illinois, with stops in Chicago, Champaign, and other cities. If you're traveling from nearby states, you can also drive to Illinois, as the state has an extensive network of highways and interstates that make it easy to get around.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are a convenient way to get to Illinois, with many airlines offering direct flights to Chicago's O'Hare and Midway airports, as well as other airports in the state, including the Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington and the Quad City International Airport in Moline. Some of the main domestic airlines that serve Illinois include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. You can book flights online or through a travel agent, and prices vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. On average, a domestic flight to Illinois can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the route and the airline.
Trains & Rail
Illinois has an extensive rail network, with Amtrak offering several routes to and from the state. The Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg trains connect Chicago to Quincy and other cities in western Illinois, while the Saluki and Illini trains connect Chicago to Carbondale and other cities in southern Illinois. You can book train tickets online or at a station, and prices vary depending on the route and the class of service. Amtrak also offers a Thruway bus service that connects to other cities in the state. The rail network in Illinois is generally reliable and comfortable, with modern trains and convenient schedules.
Buses & Coaches
Several bus companies offer routes to and from Illinois, including Greyhound, Megabus, and Burlington Trailways. These companies offer routes to cities throughout the state, including Chicago, Springfield, and Champaign. You can book tickets online or at a station, and prices vary depending on the route and the company. On average, a bus ticket to Illinois can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 or more, depending on the route and the company. The bus network in Illinois is generally reliable and convenient, with multiple departures throughout the day.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Chicago | $3 | The L train is an efficient way to get around the city |
| City Bus | Chicago, Springfield, Champaign | $2-$3 | An affordable way to get around cities |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.25/km | Available at airports and on the street |
| Ride-Hailing | Chicago, Springfield, Champaign | $5-$10 | Uber and Lyft are widely available |
| Bike-Share | Chicago | $3-$7 | A convenient way to get around the city |
Driving
- To drive in Illinois, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home state or country.
- The road quality in Illinois is generally good, with well-maintained highways and interstates.
- Fuel costs in Illinois are generally in line with the national average, with prices ranging from $2 to $3 per gallon.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to book in advance to get the best rates, and consider renting from a company like Enterprise or Hertz.
- When driving in Illinois, be aware of potential hazards like traffic congestion, road construction, and severe weather.
- It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the state's traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits and parking restrictions.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic congestion in Chicago, especially during rush hour, and plan your route accordingly.
- Consider using a mapping app like Google Maps or Waze to navigate the state's roads and highways.
- If you're taking a bus or train, be sure to arrive at the station early to allow time for parking and boarding.
- When using a ride-hailing service, always check the driver's ID and license plate before getting in the car.
- If you're driving, be sure to follow all traffic laws and regulations, including wearing a seatbelt and using a hands-free device.
- Consider purchasing a Ventra card, which can be used to pay for public transportation in Chicago and other cities.
- Be aware of potential scams, such as fake taxi drivers or ride-hailing services, and always use a reputable company.
- Download the IDOT app to get real-time traffic updates and road conditions.