- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
$323
Average price
$352
Fastest journey
19 h 41 m
Average duration
20 h 7 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
974 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Baltimore, MD 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 Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL will cost around $352 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $323.
It's difficult to get from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen Acela
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen Acela
95 Northeast Regional · 40 FloridianTrains from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 19h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $93 (€76) but you can travel from only $75 (€61) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:54, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 605 miles (974 km) distance in 19h 45m.
Distance 605 miles (974 km) |
Average train duration 19h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $93 (€76) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 19h 45m |
First train 7:54 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 5 days |
The table below shows live departures for Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 1:23 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 20h22 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
2155 NextGen Acela+ 40 Floridian | 1:26 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 20h19 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 2:04 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 19h41 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Traveling between Baltimore, MD and Chicago, IL is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, the train ride offers an enjoyable way to experience the diverse landscapes of America. The distance covered is approximately 1,000 miles (1,609 km), making it a perfect option for those who prefer relaxation over flying. Enjoy your trip as you traverse through charming towns and vibrant cities along the route!
Traveling from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL takes approximately 19 hours and 22 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day between these two cities.
The first daily train journey departs from Baltimore at 1:29 PM and arrives in Chicago at 7:21 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Baltimore, MD and Chicago, IL is $115 (104.5€). The average ticket price tends to be around $189 (170.1€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.
Welcome to the Willis Tower, once known as the Sears Tower, which held the title of the tallest building in the world for 25 years after its completion in 1973. This iconic skyscraper is not just a marvel of engineering; it symbolizes Chicago's resilience and innovation, standing tall at 1,450 feet with breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor. One unique feature that sets this landmark apart is The Ledge—glass boxes extending out over Michigan Avenue—offering an exhilarating experience as you look straight down at bustling city life below.
Next up is Millennium Park, a vibrant urban oasis that opened in 2004 and has since become one of Chicago’s most beloved attractions. Its significance lies not only in its stunning art installations like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate but also as a gathering place where culture meets community through concerts and events throughout the year. What makes Millennium Park truly special are features such as Jay Pritzker Pavilion—a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue—and Crown Fountain, which creatively combines water play with digital artistry.
Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination originally built in 1916 to serve both commercial shipping and recreational purposes. Today it stands as a testament to Chicago’s rich maritime history while offering visitors endless entertainment options including rides on Navy Pier Ferris Wheel or exploring local shops and eateries along its lively promenade. Unique highlights include seasonal festivals that celebrate everything from food to fireworks against Lake Michigan’s picturesque backdrop!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Baltimore, MD 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.

Most Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL trains use the Pennsylvania Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Baltimore, MD and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Pennsylvania Station is 1 km from Baltimore city centre. Public transport options include:
Pennsylvania Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Helmand, Tapas Teatro
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Pennsylvania Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Pennsylvania Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Pennsylvania Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Pennsylvania Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Pennsylvania Station: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown, The Ivy Hotel, Hotel Revival Baltimore.
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
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