Chicago to Hot Springs: Road Trip Guide & Distance

588.3 miles 946.7 km · straight line
702.1 miles actual route 1129.9 km · driving distance
12h 42min estimated drive time
$68 - $83 estimated fuel cost
~1h 41min flight time
212° SSW bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Hot Springs?

The distance from Chicago to Hot Springs is 588.3 miles (946.7 km) as the crow flies. Hot Springs is located SSW of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 702.1 miles, taking about 12h 42min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 41min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Hot Springs in Arkansas.

This is a serious multi-day road trip! We strongly recommend breaking this journey up with an overnight stay to ensure you arrive safely and refreshed. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Chicago and Hot Springs. 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 Chicago to Hot Springs

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 12h 42min $68 - $83 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 41min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~15h 14min $56–$105* Budget
Train ~16h 31min $84–$246* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Hot Springs

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Hot Springs
34.50°N, 93.06°W
America/Chicago
180m elevation
Explore more routes from Hot Springs

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 196 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 49 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 42.3 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM