Cheap Flights from Chicago (CHI) to Columbus (CMH)

If you’re in the mood for a slower pace, a weekend in Columbus is just the thing. Though it’s the largest city in Ohio, it has a small town sensibility. There are just 276 miles from Chicago to Columbus and the average flight will spend just an hour and twenty minutes in the air.

You’ve got a wealth of choices when flying from Chicago to Columbus. If you’re leaving from O’Hare (ORD), you can choose direct flights from American Airlines (up to 10 nonstop flights a day) or United (up to 8 nonstop flights a day). You can also decide to fly from Midway (MDW), in which case Southwest is your airline of choice for direct service.

Making Your Way to Chicago’s Airports

With four giant terminals to navigate and an incredible volume of passengers, it can be an overwhelming experience. Your best bet is to give yourself a lot of extra time, at least two hours before boarding. With a good layout and a fast automated people mover, it’s not hard to get around, you just don’t want to stress if you run into a long line.

If it’s convenient, flying from Midway is sometimes an easier option. There’s just one terminal with three concourses, one of which is so short there are only three gates. It’s also a simple matter to get here by public transport. Make sure to budget for an extra 10 to 15 minutes to walk the long tunnel at the MDW stop to the terminal.

Arriving in Columbus

It may not have a reputation as a big tourist destination, but for anyone willing to look, this lovable Midwestern city has a rich trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Soak up the delicious flavors of bratwurst and beer in the charming German Village. Once you’ve eaten your fill, if you’re still able to move, you can check out some of the family-friendly attractions Columbus has to offer.

The interactive exhibits at the Center of Science and Industry appeal to kids and their grownups, and if you’d like a little peace, quiet, and natural beauty, you can spend some time wandering among the blossoms and butterflies of the lovely Franklin Conservatory.

Sports fans will fall for the homegrown hometown team spirit of the Columbus Clippers baseball team, who play in Huntington Stadium. Tickets cost as little as $6, but you can also watch the games for free from a nearby green.

You don’t need to spend hours tracking down the cheapest flights from Chicago to Columbus. Skyscanner’s free airfare comparison tool will do all the work for you. Just type in your dates and we’ll do the rest.