Is it better to fly or drive to Chicago?

Flying is significantly faster at 2 hours compared to 12 hours of driving.

Which airport is closer to downtown Chicago?

Midway (MDW) is generally closer to the downtown Loop than O'Hare (ORD).

Does Amtrak go to Chicago from Virginia?

Yes, the Cardinal line runs from Union Station in DC to Chicago Union Station.

What is the best time to visit Chicago?

Late spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Are there tolls on the drive to Chicago?

Yes, expect several tolls on the Indiana Toll Road and Illinois tollways.

Broadlands

Chicago

Flight Driving

Broadlands to Chicago

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Broadlands to Chicago spans approximately 1100 km by road and 950 km by air. Most travelers prefer flying from Dulles International Airport (IAD) directly to O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW) for efficiency. Driving involves taking I-70 W and I-76 W, covering roughly 12 hours of transit time. Alternatively, the Amtrak Cardinal train offers a scenic but lengthy route from Union Station in DC. This trip connects the suburban landscape of Northern Virginia to the industrial heart of the Midwest.

Total Distance: 1100 km driving, 950 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from IAD to ORD takes 2 hours 15 minutes, excluding airport security time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more, costing roughly $150 in fuel.

Compare Broadlands to Chicago Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	12 hours
Avg Price	$150 - $350	$120 - $180 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	IAD to ORD	I-70 W to I-76 W
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on non-stop routes.	Expect heavy traffic near Indianapolis and during the final approach into Chicago.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Choose Midway (MDW) if you are staying in the South Side or downtown, as it is often less congested than O'Hare.
Public Transit
Use the CTA 'L' train system to navigate the city efficiently without needing a car.
Parking
Downtown parking is expensive; use apps like SpotHero to find discounted garage rates.
Weather Prep
Chicago is known as the Windy City; always carry a windbreaker or layers regardless of the season.
Dining
Try deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's or Giordano's for an authentic Chicago culinary experience.

Safety Tips

Stay Aware
Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking downtown at night.
Public Transit Safety
Keep your belongings secure and in front of you while riding the CTA trains.
Driving Caution
Be wary of aggressive drivers on the I-90/94 expressway during rush hour.
Emergency Numbers
Save the local non-emergency police line for any minor concerns or directions.