Is it better to fly or take the train?

Flying is much faster and often cheaper.

How long is the flight?

Direct flights take about 2 hours.

Is BWI close to the city?

Yes, it is about a 20-minute drive or train ride to downtown.

What is Baltimore famous for?

It is famous for its harbor, history, and crab cakes.

Yes, the route through the Appalachians is quite beautiful.

Chicago

Baltimore

Train Flight

Chicago to Baltimore

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Chicago to Baltimore covers over 1,000 kilometers, crossing the Appalachian Mountains. Flying is the most practical option, with direct flights from O'Hare or Midway to Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) taking about 2 hours. Alternatively, the Amtrak Capitol Limited connects Chicago to the East Coast, though it requires a long journey. This route transitions from the flat Midwest to the historic Atlantic seaboard.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1,100 km; straight-line air distance is 950 km.

Fastest Way

Flying is significantly faster, taking only 2 hours in the air.

Cheapest Way

Flying with a budget airline like Southwest is often cheaper than the train.

Compare Chicago to Baltimore Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Direct
Duration	18 hours	2 hours
Avg Price	$150-$300	$120-$250
Operator	Amtrak	Southwest Airlines
Route	Union Station Chicago to Penn Station Baltimore	MDW to BWI
Tip	This is a long-haul journey; consider a sleeper car for the overnight portion.	Southwest offers frequent direct flights from Midway to BWI, which is very convenient.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
The MARC train connects BWI airport to downtown Baltimore quickly and cheaply.
Water Taxi
Use the Baltimore Water Taxi to get around the Inner Harbor area efficiently.
Crab Cakes
You must try the local crab cakes; they are a Baltimore staple.
Safety
Stick to well-traveled tourist areas in the city center.
Booking
Book flights at least 30 days in advance for the best rates.

Safety Tips

Neighborhoods
Research neighborhoods before booking accommodation; some areas are safer than others.
Public Transport
Use the Light Rail or Metro during daylight hours.
Emergency
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone.
Walking
Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.