How to Get to Nantucket From Chicago [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

🏝️ How to Get to Nantucket From Chicago [2025–2026 Guide]

Fly direct from Chicago to Nantucket in 2.5–3 hours ($300–$500 round trip, seasonal). Alternatives include Boston flights plus ferry (5–6 hours total, $200–$400). Driving + ferry takes 17–18 hours.

Nantucket, Massachusetts, is one of the most charming island destinations on the East Coast, famous for its cobblestone streets, historic lighthouses, and pristine beaches. Traveling from Chicago to Nantucket can be quick and easy in summer thanks to direct flights, or you can combine flights and ferries year-round for a more scenic journey. Here’s the complete 2025–2026 guide on how to get to Nantucket from Chicago.

🛫 Direct Flights From Chicago to Nantucket

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Nantucket is by air.

  • Duration: Seasonal nonstop flights from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) take about 2.5 to 3 hours.

  • Cost: Round-trip fares usually range from $300 to $500, with higher prices in peak summer.

  • Airlines: United and American often operate nonstop summer routes, usually from May through September.

  • Pros & Cons: Direct flights save time, but availability is limited to peak tourist season.

✈️ Flights + Ferry Combination

Outside the summer, most travelers connect through Boston or New York before taking a ferry.

  • Step 1 – Fly to Boston (BOS): Flights from Chicago to Boston take 2.5 hours and cost $150–$300 round trip.

  • Step 2 – Drive/Bus to Ferry: From Boston Logan, drive 1.5 hours or take a 2-hour bus to Hyannis on Cape Cod.

  • Step 3 – Ferry to Nantucket: The high-speed ferry from Hyannis takes 1 hour ($40–$50 each way), while the traditional ferry takes 2 hours 15 minutes ($20–$30).

  • Total Duration: 5–6 hours including transfers.

  • Cost: Combined airfare and ferry tickets total around $200–$400.

🚗 Driving From Chicago to Nantucket

For road trip lovers, driving is possible but long.

  • Distance & Time: The drive covers about 1,050 miles and takes 16–17 hours nonstop.

  • Route: The fastest path is via I-90 East through Cleveland, Buffalo, and Albany before reaching Cape Cod.

  • Ferry Crossing: After driving to Hyannis, you’ll take a ferry to Nantucket, adding 1–2 hours.

  • Cost: Expect to spend $150–$200 on fuel, plus ferry tickets ($20–$50 per person, $200–$400 for cars).

  • Pros & Cons: Driving allows flexibility and sightseeing but requires nearly two full days of travel round trip.

🚖 Local Transportation on Nantucket

Once on the island, there are several ways to get around.

  • Biking: Nantucket is bike-friendly, with rentals starting at $25 per day — great for exploring beaches and town.

  • Shuttles: Nantucket Regional Transit offers seasonal shuttle buses for $2–$3 per ride.

  • Taxis & Rideshares: Fares typically range from $10–$25 depending on distance, but availability can be limited.

  • Car Rentals: Available but expensive, often $100–$200 per day, and parking is limited in downtown Nantucket.

🌞 Best Time to Visit Nantucket

The island’s charm changes with the seasons.

  • Summer (June–August): Peak season with warm weather, festivals, and nonstop flights from Chicago, though prices are highest.

  • Spring (April–May): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower rates, perfect for a quiet getaway.

  • Fall (September–October): Warm seas linger, and crowds thin out, making it a great balance of weather and affordability.

  • Winter (November–March): Off-season with cold weather, minimal crowds, and lower costs, but limited ferry schedules.

📝 Travel Summary Table

Travel Mode Duration Cost (per person) Notes
Direct Flight (ORD → ACK) 2.5–3 hours $300–$500 Seasonal nonstop flights, fastest way in summer
Flight + Ferry (via Boston) 5–6 hours $200–$400 Year-round option with scenic ferry ride
Driving + Ferry 17–18 hours $200–$600 Long road trip + ferry, flexible for sightseeing
Ferry (Hyannis → Nantucket) 1–2.25 hours $20–$50 per person Car ferries cost $200–$400 one way
Local Transport in Nantucket N/A $2–$200 per day Bikes, buses, taxis, and rentals available

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are there direct flights from Chicago to Nantucket?
Yes, but only seasonally (May–September). United and American offer nonstop flights taking 2.5–3 hours.

Q2: How much does it cost to get to Nantucket from Chicago?
Flights range $300–$500, while flight + ferry combinations cost $200–$400. Driving costs $200–$600 including fuel and ferry.

Q3: How long is the ferry from Cape Cod to Nantucket?
The high-speed ferry from Hyannis takes 1 hour, while the traditional ferry takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.

Q4: Can I bring my car to Nantucket?
Yes, but space is limited and expensive. Car ferry tickets cost $200–$400 one way. Most visitors rely on bikes, buses, or taxis instead.

Q5: What’s the best time to visit Nantucket?
Summer offers the best weather and nonstop flights, while spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and lower prices.

✅ This 2025–2026 Chicago-to-Nantucket travel guide explains the fastest flights, scenic ferry routes, driving options, costs, and best seasons to enjoy the island.

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