Is there a train to Columbus?

No, Columbus is one of the largest US cities without direct Amtrak passenger rail service.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes between 5.5 and 6.5 hours depending on traffic.

Yes, you will encounter tolls on the Chicago Skyway and parts of the Indiana Toll Road.

What is the best airport?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the primary gateway.

Is it safe to drive at night?

Yes, the route is well-lit and heavily patrolled by state police.

Chicago

Columbus

Flight Driving

Chicago to Columbus

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Chicago to Columbus spans approximately 560 kilometers via I-90 E and I-71 S. Driving typically takes 6 hours depending on traffic through Indiana. Alternatively, direct flights from O'Hare International Airport reach John Glenn Columbus International in under 90 minutes. This route traverses the industrial heartland of the Midwest. You will pass through major hubs like South Bend and Fort Wayne before entering Ohio.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 560 km; straight-line air distance is 470 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from O'Hare (ORD) to Columbus (CMH) takes approximately 75 minutes in the air.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical option for groups of two or more people.

Compare Chicago to Columbus Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 15 mins	6 hours
Avg Price	$150-$300	$60-$90 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	ORD to CMH	I-90 E to I-65 S to I-70 E
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on this business-heavy route.	Avoid rush hour traffic in downtown Chicago to save at least 45 minutes.

Travel Tips

Traffic Alert
Expect heavy congestion on I-90 near the Indiana border during holiday weekends.
Tolls
Carry an I-PASS or E-ZPass to navigate toll roads in Illinois and Indiana efficiently.
Parking
Downtown Columbus offers several parking garages; use the ParkColumbus app to find real-time availability.
Airport Transit
The COTA AirConnect bus provides a direct link between the airport and downtown Columbus.
Weather
Winter driving can be hazardous due to lake-effect snow; check ODOT road conditions before departing.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Maintain a safe following distance on I-70, as truck traffic is extremely heavy.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk if traveling between November and March.
Fuel Stops
Refuel in Indiana where gas prices are often lower than in Illinois.
Visibility
Use headlights during rainstorms, which are common in the Ohio Valley.