Ames to Chicago: Road Trip Guide & Distance

307.9 miles 495.5 km · straight line
347.4 miles actual route 559.1 km · driving distance
6h 39min estimated drive time
$33 - $41 estimated fuel cost
~1h 7min flight time
90° E bearing direction

How far is Ames from Chicago?

The distance from Ames to Chicago is 307.9 miles (495.5 km) as the crow flies. Chicago is located E of Ames. By car, the driving distance is approximately 347.4 miles, taking about 6h 39min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 7min. Both are located in United States — Ames in Iowa and Chicago in Illinois.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility.

Coordinates come from public place data for Ames and Chicago. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Ames to Chicago

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 6h 39min $33 - $41 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 7min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 59min $28–$52* Budget
Train ~6h 19min $42–$122* Comfort

For 2+ travelers, driving is usually cheaper. Solo? Consider the bus.

* Estimated range. Actual prices vary by date and provider.

Suggested Stops Between Ames & Chicago

Quick Facts

Ames
42.03°N, 93.62°W
America/Chicago
287m elevation
Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation

From Ames

From Chicago

Explore more routes from Chicago

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 103 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 26 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 80.9 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM