Travel Recommendation: Fort Collins, CO to Ottawa, IL
Air
- Companies: United Airlines, Southwest Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 925 miles (1,490 kilometers)
- Costs: €250 - €400 (prices vary based on time of booking and availability)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for air travel
Pro Tip: Book your flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday for the best rates and fewer crowds.
Bus
- Companies: Greyhound, Megabus
- Duration: Approximately 16-18 hours
- Distance: 925 miles (1,490 kilometers)
- Costs: €80 - €150 (depending on the time of booking)
- Roads/Routes: Interstate 25 to I-70, then I-55 North through Chicago
Pro Tip: Bring snacks and entertainment for the long journey, and consider traveling overnight to save on accommodation costs.
Train
- Companies: Amtrak
- Duration: Approximately 20-24 hours (with transfers)
- Distance: 925 miles (1,490 kilometers)
- Costs: €100 - €220 (depending on class of service)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for train travel
Pro Tip: Book a sleeper car for the most comfortable experience when traveling overnight.
Driving
- Companies: N/A (personal vehicle)
- Duration: Approximately 12 hours
- Distance: 925 miles (1,490 kilometers)
- Costs: €100 - €140 (fuel and tolls based on vehicle efficiency)
- Roads/Routes: Take I-25 to I-70 East, merging onto I-55 North to Ottawa, IL
Pro Tip: Plan for rest stops every few hours to avoid fatigue and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Recommendation
If comfort and time are your priorities, I recommend air travel with United Airlines or Southwest Airlines, as it offers the most efficient and quickest option to reach Ottawa. However, if you prefer a more economical route, consider taking the bus with Greyhound or Megabus. If you want a scenic drive, renting a car and taking a road trip can also be enjoyable, especially through the Midwest.