denver to chicago
The Denver to Chicago route connects two major cities in the United States, both rich in culture, history, and entertainment. Denver, the capital of Colorado, is known for its breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, outdoor lifestyle, and vibrant arts scene. Chicago, on the other hand, is famous for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, museums, and bustling city life.

Book Affordable Flights from Denver to Chicago with FaresMatch
Traveling flight from Denver to Chicago offers an exciting journey between two of Americas iconic cities. Whether you're flying for business, vacation, or a quick weekend getaway, finding the best airfare is essential. AtFaresMatch, we specialize in helping travelers discover affordable flight options, top airlines, and practical travel tips for a smoother and more enjoyable trip. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking your flight from Denver to Chicago.
Why Fly from Denver to Chicago?
The Denver to Chicago route connects two major cities in the United States, both rich in culture, history, and entertainment. Denver, the capital of Colorado, is known for its breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, outdoor lifestyle, and vibrant arts scene. Chicago, on the other hand, is famous for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, museums, and bustling city life.
Whether you're heading to Chicago for a business conference, to explore Millennium Park, or to catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities.
Distance and Flight Duration
The air distance between Denver International Airport (DEN) and Chicagos OHare International Airport (ORD) is approximately 900 miles. The average non-stop flight duration is around 2 hours and 15 minutes. If you're flying into Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), the flight time remains roughly the same.
Airlines That Operate Denver to Chicago Flights
Several major airlines operate daily non-stop and connecting flights from Denver to Chicago. Popular carriers include:
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United Airlines
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American Airlines
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Southwest Airlines
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Delta Air Lines
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Frontier Airlines
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Spirit Airlines
At FaresMatch, we compare all these airlines to help you find the best flight deals tailored to your schedule and budget.
Best Time to Book Denver to Chicago Flights
To secure the lowest airfare, timing is crucial. Here are some tips for finding cheap flights from Denver to Chicago:
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Book in Advance: Try to book at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead of your travel date. Prices typically rise as the departure date gets closer.
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Fly Midweek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have lower fares compared to weekends.
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Travel in Off-Peak Months: The cheapest months to fly are typically January, February, and September. Summer and holiday seasons are usually more expensive.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights with FaresMatch
At FaresMatch, our goal is to make affordable travel accessible for everyone. Heres how you can use our platform to get the best deals on Denver to Chicago flights:
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Use Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can compare rates for different days to find the cheapest option.
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Set Fare Alerts: Enable email notifications for fare drops on your selected route.
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Compare Nearby Airports: Consider flying into either OHare or Midway depending on the best fare.
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Check for Promo Codes: We often offer seasonal deals and discount codes exclusively on FaresMatch.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, offering a wide range of amenities for travelers. Located about 25 miles from downtown Denver, its well-connected by public transportation, ride-sharing apps, and airport shuttles. At DEN, you'll find:
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Free Wi-Fi
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Ample dining options
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Airport lounges
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Family-friendly amenities
Make sure to arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight, especially if traveling during peak hours.
Chicago Airports: OHare vs. Midway
OHare International Airport (ORD) is the primary international gateway for Chicago and one of the worlds busiest airports. Its located about 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. It offers:
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Extensive public transit options (CTA Blue Line)
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A wide range of airline options
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High-end shopping and dining
Midway International Airport (MDW) is smaller and located closer to the city center (about 10 miles southwest of downtown). It primarily serves domestic flights and is a hub for Southwest Airlines.
Choose your airport based on your airline, travel budget, and final destination in Chicago.
In-Flight Experience and Services
The in-flight experience will vary based on the airline and fare class you choose. Here's what you can expect:
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Budget Airlines (Frontier, Spirit): These typically offer lower fares but charge extra for carry-ons, checked bags, and seat selection.
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Mainline Carriers (United, American, Delta): These airlines include basic amenities like free beverages and snacks, and offer options to upgrade to first or business class.
If youre flying with Southwest, enjoy two free checked bags and open seating.
What to Do in Chicago
Once you arrive in the Windy City, a world of experiences awaits. Some must-see attractions include:
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Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (The Bean)
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Navy Pier
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The Art Institute of Chicago
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Magnificent Mile for shopping
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Lake Michigan boat tours
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Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at Giordanos or Lou Malnatis
Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or architecture enthusiast, Chicago has something for everyone.
FAQs About Denver to Chicago Flights
Q: How early should I arrive at the airport before my flight?
A: Arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight, or 2 hours during holidays and weekends.
Q: Are there direct flights from DEN to MDW?
A: Yes, airlines like Southwest offer direct flights from Denver to Chicago Midway.
Q: Whats the cheapest day to fly from Denver to Chicago?
A: Tuesday and Wednesday are generally the cheapest days to fly.
Q: Can I get a refund if I cancel my ticket?
A: Refund policies depend on the airline and ticket type. FaresMatch offers flexible booking options on select fares.
Book Your Denver to Chicago Flight with FaresMatch Today!
Ready to explore the dynamic city of Chicago? Let FaresMatch be your go-to platform for comparing and booking cheap flights from Denver to Chicago. With our user-friendly search tools, flexible date options, and fare alerts, saving on your next flight is easier than ever.
Dont wait until the last minutebook today and enjoy a smooth, affordable journey with the help of FaresMatch.