Flights from Atlanta to Chicago: Everything You Need to Know

Chicago (United States) is often considered as the jewel of the Midwest, where a diverse blend of world-class culture, vibrant urban life, and friendly charm awaits!

Known for its iconic skyline, arts scene, and culinary prowess, the Windy City (as it’s affectionately known) offers tons of experiences to captivate your senses. It’s no wonder that Chicago has over 30 million visitors each year!

A huge proportion of these tourists come from Atlanta, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport being the world’s busiest airport.

So, if you’re thinking of visiting Chicago, one of the first questions you may have is “How long is the flight from Atlanta to Chicago?”

In this detailed guide, I’ll cover exactly how long it takes to fly from Atlanta to Chicago, the cheapest way to fly there, unmissable Chicago attractions (and more!)

How Long is Flight from Atlanta to Chicago?

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the primary airport that services flights to Chicago from Atlanta. It is one of the busiest airports in the world in terms of passenger traffic and flight operations.

Flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport can go to either of the two major airports in Chicago: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW).

The flight duration from Atlanta (ATL) to Chicago typically ranges between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the specific flight and conditions.

The earliest flight from Atlanta to Chicago departs around 5am, and the last flight departs around 10pm.

What is the Distance Between Atlanta and Chicago?

The aerial distance between Atlanta and Chicago is approximately 600 miles (965 kilometers).

The flight from Atlanta to Chicago is considered short haul, but you may still wish to bring some entertainment like headphones and a good book!

What Airlines Fly Between Atlanta and Chicago?

Several major carriers provide direct flights between these two cities, including:

• Delta Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• American Airlines
• United Airlines
• Spirit Airlines

Cheapest Flights from Atlanta to Chicago

Travel hack: Kiwi is one of the best online flight booking platforms when searching for cheap airfares.

Use the booking platform below to get the best prices for non-stop flights to Chicago from Atlanta!

By using Kiwi, not only can you search an entire continent, but you can also select different destinations to find the lowest rates for the whole route.

Cheapest Time to Fly to Chicago

For flights from Atlanta to Chicago, cheaper periods to fly include:

Late January to Early March: After the holiday rush and before the spring break crowds begin.

Late September to Early November: After the summer vacation season and before the major holidays.

If you book during these cheaper times to fly, you may be able to find deals for Atlanta to Chicago flights for as little as $30!

Best Time to Visit Chicago

Before booking your flight from Atlanta to Chicago, you’ll need to know what to expect each season!

Spring (April to June) in Chicago is a fantastic time to visit. As the city shakes off the winter chill, the temperatures begin to climb, and the parks and public spaces come alive. Festivals like the Chicago Wine Fest and Chicago Beer Classic make spring a great time for food and drink enthusiasts.

Summer (July to September) is peak tourist season. The city buzzes with energy as summer festivals, concerts, and sports events take over. Highlights include the Taste of Chicago food festival, the Chicago Air and Water Show, and baseball games at the historic Wrigley Field. Though the weather can get hot, the lakefront provides a refreshing escape with its beautiful beaches and breezy boat tours.

Autumn (October to November) brings a more relaxed pace. The summer crowds dissipate, and the city’s parks transform into a spectacle of fall colours. It’s the perfect time for museum lovers to explore Chicago’s rich cultural institutions, like the Art Institute of Chicago or the Museum of Science and Industry, without the summer rush.

Winter (December to March) is chilly but has a charm of its own. It’s the best time to visit Chicago if you love winter sports and activities. You can ice skate in Millennium Park, admire the festive window displays along the Magnificent Mile, or warm up with some authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Be prepared for cold temperatures and possible snowfall, but don’t let that deter you. The city’s winter scenery is genuinely magical.

Top Things to do in Chicago:

Once you’ve caught your flight from Atlanta to Chicago you’ll need some things to do! So, let me help you out – below you’ll find all the top things to do in this incredible city.

1. Admire its Architectural Marvels

A cruise along the Chicago River offers a unique perspective on the city’s stunning skyline, led by guides who’ll immerse you in the history behind iconic structures such as the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower.

For an unparalleled panoramic view, head to the SkyDeck at Willis Tower or the 360 Chicago observation deck at John Hancock Center.

Don’t forget to include a leisurely stroll along the Lake Michigan shoreline to your Chicago Itinerary, as this is totally free and offers stunning views of the city.

2. Visit Awesome Museums

No trip to Chicago is complete without exploring its wealth of museums. The Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the largest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in the world, while the Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Adler Planetarium are well worth exploring.

For a slice of nature in the heart of the city, stroll through Millennium Park, home to the famed reflective sculpture, Cloud Gate (or “The Bean” as it’s affectionally known).

A little further afield, you’ll find Lincoln Park, where you can visit Lincoln Park Zoo or simply enjoy the expansive green spaces.

3. Explore the Music Scene

Chicago’s music scene is a force to be reckoned with, especially when it comes to the blues. Visit clubs like Buddy Guy’s Legends or Kingston Mines to witness amazing live performances. For a taste of theatre, a show at the renowned Chicago Theatre or a night of improv at The Second City is a must!

5. Family Fun Activities

With a Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, and numerous shops and restaurants to explore, Navy Pier is fun for everyone!

Chicago Foodie Guide: The Culinary Scene

There’s no point in catching a flight from Atlanta to Chicago without checking out the city’s famous food scene, which is the food capital of the Midwest for good reason!

This bustling metropolis offers more than just deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs (though, let’s admit, they’re part of the fun!). Chicago’s food scene is as diverse as its residents, brimming with culinary creativity and international influence.

No journey through Chicago’s cuisine is complete without a visit to one of the city’s pizzerias. Whether you’re a fan of the legendary deep-dish, with its towering layers of cheese and tomato sauce, or prefer the cracker-thin crust of a tavern-style pizza, you’re sure to find your piece of pie heaven here!

My top pick is Pequod’s Pizza, which has some of the best pizza in the city. Conveniently, Pequod’s has two locations (Morton Grove and Lincoln Park), making it super easy to get your fix of its crazy popular pan pizza.

Don’t forget the city’s famous Chicago-style hot dog, which is a colourful masterpiece that screams ‘Chicago’ like nothing else.

But beyond these well-known classics, Chicago’s food scene has so much more to offer. You’ll find Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Alinea and Oriole, serving up avant-garde gastronomy that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible on a plate.

Chicago is also a melting pot of international flavours. Devour authentic Mexican cuisine in Pilsen, discover Middle Eastern delights in Albany Park, or enjoy the fragrant spices of Indian food in Devon Avenue. For those who crave Asian flavours, a visit to Chinatown or Uptown for Vietnamese cuisine is a must.

With an array of dining options that cater to every taste and budget, Chicago offers a culinary adventure that’s hard to beat. So next time you’re in the Windy City, be sure to bring your appetite!

Best Hotels in Chicago

Once you’ve caught your flight from Atlanta to Chicago you’ll need somewhere to stay!

Booking accommodation online in advance is an essential part of your Chicago trip planning to ensure you get the best bang for your buck!

Travel hack: To get the best deals, use Hotellook to find and compare prices!

Conclusion

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, Chicago offers a dynamic blend of experiences, ensuring that each trip is as unforgettable as the city itself.

Hopefully this guide answers the question “How long is a flight from Atlanta to Chicago” and helps you get acquainted with all the Windy City has to offer, so you can start planning your own trip with some insider insight!

Happy Travels! ✈️

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