4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$313
Average price
$337
Fastest journey
22 h 15 m
Average duration
22 h 19 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
1368 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA to Chicago, IL will cost around $337 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $313.
Of the 4 trains that leave Boston, MA for Chicago, IL on Wed, Feb 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Feb 25 the direct trains cover the 1368 km distance in an average of 22 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 22 h 15 m .
On Wed, Feb 25 the slowest trains will take 22 h 22 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.
449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited449 Lake Shore Limited
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $65, and a train costs an average of $110.
Distance: 850 miles (1368 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$326 Average price | $174 Average price Cheapest | $220 Average price |
22h 50m Average total duration 22h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 25h 29m Average total duration 24h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.1 - 8.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.4kg 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
Boston, MA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Tuesday, February 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:10 AM Boston, MA | 27h35 | 2:45 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | ||
| 5:50 PM Boston, MA | 22h22 | 4:12 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | ||
| 5:57 PM Boston, MA | 22h15 | 4:12 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 Boston, MA 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.
Feb 25
Feb 26
Feb 27
Feb 28
Mar 01
Mar 02
Mar 03
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 22h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€88) but you can travel from only $65 (€52) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:10, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 850 miles (1368 km) distance in 22h 15m.
Distance 850 miles (1368 km) |
Average train duration 22h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€88) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 22h 15m |
First train 06:10 |
Last train 21:30 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL from $65 (€52). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. This rail service offers comfortable accommodations and stunning views as you traverse the diverse landscapes of the Northeast to the Midwest. With multiple daily departures, passengers can enjoy an efficient travel experience while relaxing in spacious seating or dining on board. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, Amtrak connects these two cities seamlessly.
Train Connection: Boston to Chicago
Traveling from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL takes approximately 22 hours and 15 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available each day. Passengers can depart from either Back Bay Station or South Station in Boston and arrive at Union Station in Chicago.
Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Boston at 4:50 PM and arrives in Chicago at 5:50 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for starting their adventure between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Boston to Chicago is $102 (92€). The average ticket price tends to be around $198 (178.2€), 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 is significant not only for its height but also for its innovative design that has influenced modern architecture worldwide. One of its unique features is The Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto a glass ledge and experience breathtaking views of Chicago from over a thousand feet above ground.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as part of an urban revitalization project aimed at enhancing public spaces within downtown Chicago. Its significance lies in how it brings together art, music, and nature while serving as a cultural hub that attracts millions each year. Be sure to check out Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—a stunning stainless steel sculpture that reflects both visitors and city life around it.
Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier—a historic landmark opened in 1916 originally designed as a shipping facility but now transformed into one of Chicago's top tourist destinations. Its significance comes from being home to various attractions like theaters, restaurants, shops, and even fireworks displays during summer nights along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Unique features include rides such as The Centennial Wheel offering panoramic views over Lake Michigan or taking leisurely boat cruises right from this vibrant pier!
FAQs: Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Carts
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Atlantic Avenue.
- Legal Sea Foods
- Tavern in the Square
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $0.50
- InterContinental Boston
- The Langham, Boston
- Boston Harbor Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for Amtrak services
- Hall 2: platforms 6-13 for MBTA Commuter Rail services
- Bus terminal located on the upper level.
- Subway: Red Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Multiple lines
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with several garages in the vicinity.
- Sorellina
- Atlantic Fish Company
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $0.50
- Copley Square Hotel
- The Westin Copley Place
- Fairmont Copley Plaza
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail
- Hall 2: Orange Line subway platforms
- Subway: Orange Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Framingham/Worcester Line, Franklin Line, Needham Line, Providence/Stoughton Line
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 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 Boston, MA
More options for your journey from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Boston, MA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
