- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Flights from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL depart on average 41 times per day, taking around 5h 46m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $276 (€223) but you can travel from only $156 (€126) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:15. The fastest flight covers the 1237 miles (1991 km) distance in 5h 46m. December is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 1237 miles (1991 km) |
Average flight duration 5h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $276 (€223) |
Flights per day 41 |
Fastest flight 5h 46m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 42 days |
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $191 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 46m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $191, while a flight costs an average of $339.
Distance: 1237 miles (1991 km)
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$339 Average price | $191 Average price Cheapest | $295 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 46m Average total duration Fastest 5h 46m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 30h 35m Average total duration 30h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $148 (€119) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL costing on average $339 (€273).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 30h 5m.
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL flights use the McAllen Miller International Airport to O'Hare International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare McAllen, TX and Chicago, IL airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
McAllen Miller International Airport is 2 km from McAllen city centre. Public transport options include:
McAllen Miller International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Two cafes available inside the terminal.
Free WiFi available throughout the terminal. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at McAllen Miller International Airport.
Available at McAllen Miller International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at McAllen Miller International Airport: Wheelchair accessible facilities provided.
O'Hare International Airport is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
O'Hare International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at O'Hare International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at O'Hare International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at O'Hare International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.
Nearby hotels include Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby..
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