Is there a direct train from Nashville to Chicago?

No, you must take a bus or drive to a nearby Amtrak station.

How long is the drive to Chicago?

The drive typically takes 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic.

What is the best airport for Chicago?

O'Hare (ORD) is the primary international hub, while Midway (MDW) is closer to downtown.

Do I need a car in Chicago?

No, public transportation is excellent and often faster than driving.

What is the cheapest month to fly?

February and November typically offer the lowest airfares.

Mt. Juliet

Chicago

Flight Driving

Mt. Juliet to Chicago

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Mt. Juliet to Chicago spans approximately 450 miles. You can drive via I-65 North through Louisville and Indianapolis, which takes about 7.5 hours. Alternatively, fly from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to O'Hare (ORD) in 1.5 hours. Amtrak offers the City of New Orleans line from Nashville's nearby hub to Chicago Union Station. This route transitions from the rolling hills of Tennessee to the flat plains of the Midwest. Expect heavy traffic when entering the Chicago metropolitan area via I-90.

Total Distance: 725 km driving, 650 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from BNA to ORD is the fastest, taking under 2 hours total.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Mt. Juliet to Chicago Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	7 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$150-$300	$80-$120 in fuel
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	BNA to ORD	I-65 N to I-90 W
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the lowest fares.	Avoid rush hour in Indianapolis to save 30 minutes of travel time.

Travel Tips

Public Transit
Use the CTA 'L' train system to avoid expensive downtown parking.
Airport Access
The Blue Line train connects O'Hare directly to the downtown Loop.
Weather Prep
Chicago is known as the Windy City; bring layers regardless of the season.
Dining
Try deep-dish pizza at local institutions like Lou Malnati's.
Walking
Downtown Chicago is highly walkable; wear comfortable shoes.

Safety Tips

Stay Aware
Keep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas like Navy Pier.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit, populated streets when walking at night.
Parking
Use official parking garages rather than street parking to avoid tickets.
Emergency
Dial 911 for any immediate assistance needed in the city.