San Diego, CA SAN to Chicago, IL CHI flight with Spirit Airlines

Tue, May 26
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Journey information

Overview: San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flight

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Flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL depart on average 43 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) if you book in advance.

There are 9 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 3h 59m. December is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
1729 miles (2784 km)
Average flight duration
4h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€40)
Flights per day
43
Direct flights
9
Fastest flight
3h 59m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
56 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

The cheapest and fastest flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for May 27

Cheapest price

$87

Average price

$306

Fastest journey

4 h 4 m

Average duration

5 h 11 m

Flights per day

5

Distance

2784 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $306 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.

Fast flights

Of the 5 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Chicago, IL onWed, May 27, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 27 the direct flights cover the 2784 km distance in an average of 5 h 11 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 4 m .

On Wed, May 27 the longest flights will take 9 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • American Airlines
    6:35 AM4h04
    San Diego, CA
    10:39 AMChicago, IL
    $871One-way
    0 transfers
  • Spirit Airlines
    3:05 AM9h20
    San Diego, CA
    12:25 PMChicago, IL
    $1051One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    5:52 PM4h12
    San Diego, CA
    10:04 PMChicago, IL
    $4341One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    9:10 PM4h12
    San Diego, CA
    1:22 AMChicago, IL
    $4521One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    5:40 AM4h05
    San Diego, CA
    9:45 AMChicago, IL
    $4531One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $200.

Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$324

Average price

Cheapest

$459

Average price

$355

Average price

$435

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 33m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

49h 31m

Average total duration

49h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

49h 18m

Average total duration

48h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

30h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

8.4 - 16.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.8 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $324 (€261).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL:

A flight is $31 (€25) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $355 (€286).

A flight is $135 (€109) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $459 (€370).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 33m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Bus takes on average 48h 48m.

Train takes on average 49h 1m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flight times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flights for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
American AirlinesAA1651 · AA29076:50 AM San Diego International Airport
7h53
4:43 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1651 · AA5366:50 AM San Diego International Airport
8h50
5:40 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS14957:00 AM San Diego International Airport
4h14
1:14 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Alaska AirlinesAS709 · AS5387:15 AM San Diego International Airport
14h44
11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS709 · AS4097:15 AM San Diego International Airport
9h48
7:03 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2274 · UA19547:15 AM San Diego International Airport
7h27
4:42 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS709 · AS4107:15 AM San Diego International Airport
13h44
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA373 · AA27407:15 AM San Diego International Airport
8h56
6:11 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA12617:28 AM San Diego International Airport
4h23
1:51 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA5519 · UA23177:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h42
6:40 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA19547:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h44
4:42 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA17777:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
11h30
9:28 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1055 · AA27408:05 AM San Diego International Airport
8h06
6:11 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1071 · UA24978:32 AM San Diego International Airport
8h23
6:55 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5520 · UA10238:40 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h11
6:51 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5520 · UA6178:40 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h25
5:05 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2476 · UA6178:45 AM San Diego International Airport
6h20
5:05 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA520 · UA23179:26 AM San Diego International Airport
7h14
6:40 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA3389:47 AM San Diego International Airport
6h10
5:57 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2687 · AA14249:54 AM San Diego International Airport
9h21
9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2687 · AA24749:54 AM San Diego International Airport
7h39
7:33 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA24849:57 AM San Diego International Airport
4h26
4:23 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Alaska AirlinesAS1368 · AS41010:11 AM San Diego International Airport
10h48
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS1368 · AS53810:11 AM San Diego International Airport
11h48
11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2165 · UA213510:13 AM San Diego International Airport
8h03
8:16 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA171010:34 AM San Diego International Airport
4h20
4:54 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA5384 · UA45710:49 AM San Diego International Airport
6h16
7:05 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5384 · UA248710:49 AM San Diego International Airport
8h01
8:50 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1337 · UA67510:55 AM San Diego International Airport
7h10
8:05 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2476 · AA142410:57 AM San Diego International Airport
8h18
9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2476 · AA189310:57 AM San Diego International Airport
7h24
8:21 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS726 · AS41011:18 AM San Diego International Airport
9h41
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS726 · AS53811:18 AM San Diego International Airport
10h41
11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2428 · UA177711:55 AM San Diego International Airport
7h33
9:28 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2237 · UA175211:58 AM San Diego International Airport
9h16
11:14 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2237 · UA219711:58 AM San Diego International Airport
7h53
9:51 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1467 · AA142412:20 PM San Diego International Airport
6h55
9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS685 · AS53812:28 PM San Diego International Airport
9h31
11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS685 · AS41012:28 PM San Diego International Airport
8h31
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS685 · AS32812:28 PM San Diego International Airport
15h52
6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1565 · UA141112:33 PM San Diego International Airport
7h21
9:54 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS147812:34 PM San Diego International Airport
4h16
6:50 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA5515 · UA141112:52 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h02
9:54 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA225812:52 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h57
10:49 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA444 · UA173812:57 PM San Diego International Airport
8h29
11:26 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA7951:19 PM San Diego International Airport
4h35
7:54 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA2465 · AA30141:21 PM San Diego International Airport
8h38
11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA20771:39 PM San Diego International Airport
7h20
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA17631:39 PM San Diego International Airport
9h20
12:59 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA2456 · AA23461:55 PM San Diego International Airport
7h42
11:37 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2456 · AA11931:55 PM San Diego International Airport
8h47
12:42 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA17792:08 PM San Diego International Airport
4h20
8:28 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA2459 · AA11933:10 PM San Diego International Airport
7h32
12:42 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS622 · AS3283:56 PM San Diego International Airport
12h24
6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2470 · AA31374:22 PM San Diego International Airport
6h08
12:30 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA24864:41 PM San Diego International Airport
4h18
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Alaska AirlinesAS574 · AS3285:17 PM San Diego International Airport
11h03
6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS14935:44 PM San Diego International Airport
4h11
11:55 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Alaska AirlinesAS1308 · AS3286:19 PM San Diego International Airport
10h01
6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA22787:41 PM San Diego International Airport
7h17
4:58 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Alaska AirlinesAS652 · AS3288:04 PM San Diego International Airport
8h16
6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Tuesday, May 26
Spirit Airlines3:05 AM San Diego, CA
9h20
12:25 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Monday, May 25
UnitedUA5636 · UA7298:32 PM San Diego International Airport
8h00
6:32 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1827 · UA5679:05 PM San Diego International Airport
9h55
9:00 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2129 · UA17759:45 PM San Diego International Airport
9h51
9:36 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2468 · AA284310:28 PM San Diego International Airport
8h34
9:02 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA327 · UA248810:30 PM San Diego International Airport
9h14
9:44 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA145710:40 PM San Diego International Airport
4h09
4:49 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
United5:40 AM San Diego, CA
4h05
9:45 AM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Monday, May 25
American AirlinesAA154310:45 PM San Diego International Airport
4h33
5:18 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
American Airlines6:35 AM San Diego, CA
4h04
10:39 AM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, 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.

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May 26
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May 29
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Jun 01

Why should you book San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flights with Omio?

Spirit Airlines as well as American Airlines or United offer flights services from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio vs Spirit Airlines?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Spirit Airlines, but also compare tickets for the likes of American Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Spirit Airlines with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio over Edreams, Kayak or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of American Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.

Airlines: Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from San Diego, CA to Chicago, ILFind the best flights between San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL with Omio's travel partners Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from $50 (€40). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

United

About
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
$260 (€210)
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 4m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Spirit Airlines

About
Spirit Airlines is an American ultra-low-cost carrier, headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, operating scheduled flights throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Known for its distinctive bright yellow planes, Spirit's business model traditionally focuses on offering low base fares by unbundling services, allowing passengers to pay only for the amenities they choose, such as baggage and seat selection. As of August 2024, Spirit is evolving its offerings, introducing new fare tiers like "Go Big," "Go Comfy," "Go Savvy," and "Go," which include various bundled perks such as wider seats, extra legroom, priority boarding, and in-flight refreshments. Spirit was the seventh largest passenger carrier in North America as of 2023.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 20m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€85)
Luggage included
Personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included
Additional luggage
Checked bags: First bag $79-89, Second bag $89-99, Additional bags $105-110
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation within 24 hours of booking is free, after that fees apply based on fare type and timing
Pregnant on board
Up to 7 days before departure with medical certificate. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors for $100 fee per direction. Service not available on international flights or connecting flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Accessibility
Spirit Airlines offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are encouraged to request assistance at least 48 hours in advance to ensure availability.

FAQs: San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA 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.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $50 (€40) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is $324 (€261) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is 3h 59m to travel the 1729 miles (2784 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct flights a day from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL generally leave from San Diego International Airport and arrive in O'Hare International Airport.San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) away from San Diego, CA city centre and O'Hare International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 2 h between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL all year round.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
  • Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
  • Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
  • Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
  • Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
  • Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
  • Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
  • Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
  • Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL include:
  • Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
  • Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
  • Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
  • Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
  • Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
  • Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
The best season to visit Chicago, IL is Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular airports

Popular airports from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

San Diego
Chicago
The major airport for departures in San Diego is San Diego International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego International Airport for your trip from San Diego to Chicago.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-5, exit Sassafras St
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops in terminals 1 and 2, including Duty-Free and Hudson News.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available, price varies.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers available at the Airspace Lounge, access fee required.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and Airspace Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 2 East, baggage claim area.
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Car rental services available at Rental Car Center, free shuttle from terminals
Public transit options for San Diego International Airport
  • Bus Route 992, Airport Station, 4.8 km
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)Accessibility
Amenities at airport
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible

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