Air Travel
- Companies: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (flight time)
- Distance: About 1,000 miles
- Costs: Approximately 150 EUR (round trip, varies by date)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for flights
Pro Tip: Book your flight during the mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) for better fares.
For optimal travel, consider flying directly from New York City (JFK) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and then drive or take a train to Ottawa, IL. This combines efficiency with the convenience of a short drive.
Train Travel
- Companies: Amtrak (Cardinal and City of New Orleans routes)
- Duration: Approximately 22 hours (including transfer time)
- Distance: About 1,000 miles
- Costs: Approximately 120 EUR (one way)
- Roads/Routes: Travel via I-90 W and I-55 S if driving from Chicago to Ottawa
Pro Tip: Reserve a sleeper car for enhanced comfort on overnight routes.
The Amtrak service offers a scenic experience, but you should ensure your reservations align with connecting transfers from New York to Chicago and from there to Ottawa.
Bus Travel
- Companies: Greyhound, Megabus
- Duration: Approximately 18 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: About 1,000 miles
- Costs: Approximately 90 EUR (one way)
- Roads/Routes: Travel via I-80 W if driving from Chicago to Ottawa
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance for lower fares and check for any promotional codes.
Buses provide a budget-friendly option, although the journey is lengthy. Bring snacks and entertainment to make your trip more enjoyable.
Comprehensive Recommendation
Considering efficiency and practicality, flying from New York City to Chicago and then transferring to a bus or train to Ottawa, IL is recommended. The overall travel time will be around 5-6 hours, factoring in the flight and the subsequent land travel. While costs may vary, budgeting around 250-300 EUR for a round trip should cover your travel expenses comfortably.