- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Athens, GA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $153. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 10h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $153, and a train costs an average of $255.
Distance: 592 miles (954 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$257 Average price | $185 Average price Cheapest | $220 Average price | $143 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
35h 31m Average total duration 35h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 19m Average total duration Fastest 10h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 7m Average total duration 19h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $185 (€152).
This is compared to other travel options from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $34 (€28) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL costing on average $220 (€181).
A flight is $72 (€59) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL costing on average $257 (€211).
The fastest way to travel from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 10h 19m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 37m.
Train takes on average 35h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Athens, GA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $257 (€211) compared to roughly $143 (€117) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-114.58 (€-94.12). The journey takes 35h 1m versus 11h 44m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Athens, GA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Athens, GA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4:24 AM Athens, GA | 35h01 | 3:25 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 Athens, GA to Chicago, IL by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 35h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $255 (€209) but you can travel from only $153 (€126) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:24, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 592 miles (954 km) distance in 35h 1m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $153 (€126)
Distance 592 miles (954 km) |
Average train duration 35h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $255 (€209) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 35h 1m |
First train 12:24 AM |
Last train 6:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $153 (€126)
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Trains from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens, GA 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.
Train ticket prices from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $255 (€209), while the average price is around $257 (€211).
The train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL takes 35h 1m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:24 AM.
The distance by train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL is 592 miles (954 km).
The last train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:40 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Athens, GA that goes to Chicago, IL is Gainesville Station, Gainesville, GA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $153 (€126).
The train journey from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL offers a diverse scenic experience as it traverses through the rolling hills and lush landscapes of the Southern U.S., passing through charming small towns and expansive farmlands before reaching the bustling urban setting of Chicago.
A day trip from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 35h 1m and covers 592 miles (954 km). There is 1 trip per day for this route by train.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
No, you cannot take the train from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Athens, GA nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL
Most Athens, GA to Chicago, IL trains use the Gainesville Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Athens, GA and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Athens
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Athens, GA arrive at?
Trains from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Athens, GA
More options for your journey from Athens, GA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Athens, GA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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