Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland, is a historic seaport with a rich cultural heritage. Known as “Charm City,” Baltimore offers a unique blend of urban attractions and maritime charm. The city is famous for its Inner Harbor, world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious seafood, particularly blue crabs. Baltimore’s significance in American history, from the War of 1812 to the Civil Rights movement, adds depth to its modern appeal.
Choose your destination, travel dates, number of passengers and click Search
Flight prices for a month from Chicago to Baltimore, one way
Departure at | Stops | Find tickets |
---|---|---|
29 May 2025 | Direct | 41 |
24 May 2025 | Direct | 75 |
25 May 2025 | Direct | 75 |
26 May 2025 | Direct | 75 |
27 May 2025 | Direct | 75 |
28 May 2025 | Direct | 75 |
23 May 2025 | Direct | 110 |
17 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
18 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
19 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
20 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
21 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
22 May 2025 | Direct | 127 |
16 May 2025 | 1 Stop | 145 |
Airlines, Frequency, and Prices
Several airlines operate flights between Chicago and Baltimore:
- Southwest Airlines: Up to 8 daily flights
- United Airlines: Up to 6 daily flights
- American Airlines: Up to 5 daily flights
- Spirit Airlines: 2-3 daily flights
Southwest Airlines often provides the most competitive prices, but this can vary depending on promotions and seasons. Spirit Airlines may offer budget options, but be aware of additional fees for baggage and seat selection. It’s advisable to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms for the best deals.
Festivals in Baltimore
Baltimore hosts numerous festivals throughout the year:
- Artscape (July) – America’s largest free arts festival
- Baltimore Book Festival (November)
- Maryland Film Festival (May)
- Baltimore Pride (June)
- Baltimore Seafood Festival (September)
- Light City Baltimore (Spring) – Festival of light, music, and innovation
- Baltimore’s African American Festival (July)
Shopping and Prices
Baltimore offers diverse shopping experiences:
- Inner Harbor: Waterfront shopping and dining complex
- Hampden: Quirky neighborhood with unique local shops
- Fells Point: Historic area with boutiques and antique stores
- The Avenue in White Marsh: Large outdoor shopping center
Prices in Baltimore are generally lower than in Chicago. A meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost $15-25 per person, while a coffee typically ranges from $3-5.
Employment Comparison
Both Chicago and Baltimore have diverse job markets, but they differ in key industries:
Chicago:
- Finance
- Manufacturing
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
Baltimore:
- Healthcare and Biotechnology
- Education
- Port and Maritime Industries
- Government and Defense
- Tourism
While Chicago offers a broader range of industries, Baltimore excels in healthcare, biotechnology, and maritime-related fields. The proximity to Washington D.C. also provides opportunities in government and defense sectors.
Baltimore Airports and Public Transportation
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is the primary airport serving Baltimore. It’s located about 10 miles south of downtown Baltimore.
Public transportation options:
- Light RailLink: Train service connecting BWI to downtown Baltimore ($1.90 one-way)
- MTA Buses: Extensive bus network covering the metro area (Local fare: $1.90)
- Charm City Circulator: Free bus service in downtown Baltimore
- Baltimore Bike Share: Bike-sharing program available throughout the city
Baltimore’s public transportation system is well-developed, making it relatively easy to navigate the city without a car.
Distance and Flight Duration
The distance between Chicago and Baltimore is approximately 621 miles (1,000 km). A direct flight typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on wind conditions and the specific route taken.
Interesting Facts:
- The flight path often offers views of the Great Lakes and the Appalachian Mountains.
- BWI Airport is known for its efficiency and has been ranked as one of the best airports in the U.S. for customer satisfaction.
- There’s a one-hour time difference between Chicago and Baltimore, with Baltimore being one hour ahead (Eastern Time Zone).
- Baltimore is often referred to as a “city of neighborhoods,” with each area having its own distinct character and charm, which can be appreciated as you fly into the city.
This guide provides comprehensive information about flights from Chicago to Baltimore, including key details about the destination city. Whether you’re traveling for business, to explore American history, or to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay area, understanding these aspects can help you plan a more enjoyable and efficient trip to Charm City.