Distance

about 890 mi

Typical flight time

2 h – 3 h

Airports

2 × 1

Time difference

1 h behind

This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Denver: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.

Quick answer: Chicago to Denver is about 890 miles (1,430 km) and a typical flight takes 2 h to 3 h. Denver is 1 hour behind Chicago. Chicago has 2 airports to compare and Denver has 1.

Airport pairs to compare

Chicago has two main airports: O'Hare handles hub and long-haul traffic, while Midway is smaller and closer to the city center. Denver's airport lies on the plains northeast of the city, roughly 25 miles from downtown, so ground transport time matters.

About the airports

• ORD · O'Hare International
  A major hub for connecting traffic and long-haul flights, with a direct train to downtown.
• MDW · Midway International
  Closer to downtown and served by its own train line, with a focus on shorter domestic routes.
• DEN · Denver International
  Sits roughly 25 miles northeast of downtown, with a commuter rail line to Union Station.

Airlines with a major base at either end

• At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
• At Denver: United Airlines, Southwest Airlines

United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have a base at both ends, which can make nonstop service more likely. Schedules change, so a specialist confirms what actually operates on your dates.

When to go and what to expect

Chicago

Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays.

Denver

Ski season (roughly late November through April) and summer are the busiest periods. Winter storms can disrupt flights, and spring snow is not unusual.

How long is Chicago to Denver?

At about 890 miles, Chicago to Denver is a short-to-medium flight. Fares on routes this length are sensitive to the day of the week and the time of day, so check a few departure times before you settle.

Time zones and timing

Denver is 1 hour behind Chicago, so you land at a local time 1 hour earlier than departure time plus flight time would suggest. Plan your arrival day around local time at the destination.

Getting between the airport and town

Chicago: CTA trains run from both airports to the city center, which is usually the most predictable option at busy times.

Denver: The A Line commuter train runs from the airport to Union Station downtown. Shuttles and rental cars serve the mountains.

Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.

Good to know

• Check every airport pairing when you compare fares. Schedules and airline options can differ between them.
• Winter weather is the main source of disruption. Build in extra buffer for connections between November and March.
• If you are heading to a ski area, allow extra time on mountain roads in winter, and watch the forecast before travel day.
• Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.

Flying Denver to Chicago?

This route guide works in both directions. For other trips, see all flights from Chicago or all flights from Denver.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Chicago from Denver?

The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 890 miles (1,430 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.

How long is a flight from Chicago to Denver?

A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 2 h to 3 h in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.

Which airports can I use?

At Chicago: ORD (O'Hare International), MDW (Midway International). At Denver: DEN (Denver International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.

Is there a time difference?

Denver is 1 hour behind Chicago.

When is the best time to fly from Chicago to Denver?

In Chicago: Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays. In Denver: Ski season (roughly late November through April) and summer are the busiest periods. Winter storms can disrupt flights, and spring snow is not unusual. Fares are usually highest in the busy periods described for each city, so flexible dates can help.

Which airlines should I compare for Chicago to Denver?

Airlines with a major base at either end include United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. A specialist compares them with other carriers on your dates, since schedules and availability change.

Do you show fares on this page?

No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.

Route details updated October 18, 2026.

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