The cheapest and fastest trains from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$150
Average price
$180
Fastest journey
19 h 24 m
Average duration
21 h 24 m
Trains per day
4
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 $180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $150.
Of the 4 trains that leave Baltimore, MD for Chicago, IL on Wed, Mar 18, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Mar 18 the direct trains cover the 974 km distance in an average of 21 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 24 m .
On Wed, Mar 18 the slowest trains will take 1 d 1 h 52 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 Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $81. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $81, and a flight costs an average of $70.
Distance: 605 miles (974 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$203 Average price | $131 Average price Cheapest | $229 Average price |
21h 9m Average total duration 20h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 12m Average total duration 17h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | 2.9 - 5.8kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL trains for today, Tuesday, March 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 3:18 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 23h54 | 3:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
95 Northeast Regional · 1040 Floridian | 5:23 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 20h22 | 1:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
119 Northeast Regional · 1040 Floridian | 5:46 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 19h59 | 1:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
125 Northeast Regional · 1040 Floridian | 6:21 PM Pennsylvania Station, Baltimore, MD | 19h24 | 1:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Baltimore, MD 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.
Mar 18
Mar 19
Mar 20
Mar 21
Mar 22
Mar 23
Mar 24
Why should you book Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amtrak Acela or Maryland Transit to find the best option for your trip from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
Trains from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 20h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $98 (€80) but you can travel from only $70 (€57) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:54, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 605 miles (974 km) distance in 19h 24m.
Distance 605 miles (974 km) |
Average train duration 20h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $98 (€80) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 19h 24m |
First train 07:54 |
Last train 21:30 |
Cheapest month Nov |
Cheapest day Wed |
High season Oct - Dec |
Low season Apr - Jun |
Busiest day Thu |
Least busy day Mon |
Best day to book ahead 5 days |
Train companies: Amtrak, Amtrak Acela, Maryland Transit from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak, Amtrak Acela, Maryland Transit trains will get you between Baltimore, MD and Chicago, IL from $70 (€57). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Maryland Transit
Traveling by train from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
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!
Train Connection: Baltimore to Chicago
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.
Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
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.
Train Tickets Price for Baltimore and Chicago
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.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Attractions
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!
FAQs: Trains from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
- 5:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from Charles Street.
- The Helmand
- Tapas Teatro
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $0.50
- Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown
- The Ivy Hotel
- Hotel Revival Baltimore
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticketing, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak and MARC trains
- Hall 3: access to Light RailLink
- Light Rail: Baltimore Light RailLink
- Bus: Several MTA bus lines available
- 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 Baltimore, MD
More options for your journey from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL
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