The cheapest and fastest trains from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$211
Average price
$552
Fastest journey
15 h 39 m
Average duration
15 h 53 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1146 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $552 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $211.
Of the 2 trains that leave Albany, NY for Chicago, IL on Wed, Nov 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 26 the direct trains cover the 1146 km distance in an average of 15 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 h 39 m .
On Wed, Nov 26 the slowest trains will take 16 h 7 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.




Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €69. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €69, and a flight costs an average of €116.
Distance: 712 miles (1146 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€197 Average price | €329 Average price | €131 Average price Cheapest |
16h 30m Average total duration 16h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 7m Average total duration 23h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.4 - 6.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Albany, NY to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL trains for today, Tuesday, November 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:05 PM Albany, NY | 16h07 | 3:12 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 11:33 PM Albany, NY | 15h39 | 3:12 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Albany, NY to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Nov 26
Nov 27
Nov 28
Nov 29
Nov 30
Dec 01
Dec 02
Journey information
Overview: Train from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
Trains from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 16h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€90) but you can travel from only $85 (€69) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 19:05, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 712 miles (1146 km) distance in 15h 39m.
Distance 712 miles (1146 km) |
Average train duration 16h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€90) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 15h 39m |
First train 19:05 |
Last train 21:30 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Albany, NY and Chicago, IL from $85 (€69). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Albany, NY and Chicago, IL is made convenient with Amtrak providing a comfortable train connection. The journey offers scenic views as you traverse through the heart of America, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers looking to explore these two cities. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their trip while enjoying amenities such as Wi-Fi and dining options on board.
Train Connection: Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
The train connection from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL takes approximately 15 hours and 39 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day between these two cities.
Albany, NY to Chicago, IL Train Connection
The first daily journey departs from Albany, NY at 23:05 and arrives in Chicago, IL at 23:33. This connection offers a late-night travel option for those looking to embark on their adventure after dark.
Train Tickets Price for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Albany to Chicago is $88 (79.2€). The average ticket price tends to be around $154 (138.6€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Landmarks
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper not only symbolizes Chicago's architectural innovation but also offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass ledges that extend four feet outside of the building! As we explore this landmark, you'll discover how it has become a vital part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience our city's grandeur.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant urban oasis that showcases art and culture at its finest. The park features unique attractions like Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—which reflects both visitors and stunning cityscapes while serving as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. With its lush gardens, outdoor concerts at Pritzker Pavilion, and interactive installations such as Crown Fountain, Millennium Park truly embodies Chicago's spirit of creativity and community engagement.
Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination originally opened in 1916 designed to serve both commercial shipping needs during World War I and leisure activities thereafter. Today it stands out with its family-friendly attractions including rides like The Centennial Wheel offering panoramic lake views along with diverse dining options showcasing local cuisine. Whether you're here for entertainment or simply soaking up Lake Michigan's beauty, Navy Pier remains an enduring symbol of fun-filled experiences right at heart of our beloved city!
FAQs: Trains from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Albany, NY
More options for your journey from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL
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