Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jul 15

Cheapest price

$188

Average price

$188

Fastest journey

10 h 33 m

Average duration

10 h 33 m

Trains per day

Distance

729 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Buffalo, 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $188 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $188.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Buffalo, NY for Chicago, IL on Tue, Jul 15, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 10 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 33 m .

On Tue, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 10 h 33 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.

49 Lake Shore Limited

12:39AM10h33

Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY

10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL

$1881One-way

0 transfers

449 Lake Shore Limited

12:39AM10h33

Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY

10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL

$1881One-way

0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €49, and a flight costs an average of €110.

Distance: 452 miles (729 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight
€146 Average price	€80 Average price Cheapest	€227 Average price
11h 3m Average total duration 10h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	12h 56m Average total duration 12h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 54m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Live departures

Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL train times

Showing trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 15

Last updated at 12:41 PM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
49 Lake Shore Limited	4:39 AM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY	10h33	3:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	0 transfersDirect
449 Lake Shore Limited	4:39 AM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY	10h33	3:12 PM Chicago Union Station, 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight

Tue
Jul 15

Wed
Jul 16

Thu
Jul 17

Fri
Jul 18

Sat
Jul 19

Sun
Jul 20

Mon
Jul 21

Journey information

Overview: Train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

USA

Trains from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 10h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 (€71) but you can travel from only $62 (€49) by bus.

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

Bus from $62 (€49)

Distance

452 miles (729 km)

Average train duration

10h 33m

Cheapest ticket price

$89 (€71)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

10h 33m

First train

00:39

Last train

21:30

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $62 (€49)

Train providers: Amtrak and VIA Rail from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL trains

Travel between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL from $82 (€66) with Omio’s train partners Amtrak and VIA Rail! You can find the best schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the most popular route for you.

Amtrak is the main train company in the United States operating medium and long-distance intercity services in 46 US states as well as in 3 Canadian provinces. There are over 300 Amtrak trains running daily. With Amtrak you can travel by train across the country and explore destinations near and far with routes such as the Northeast Regional connecting cities in the East Coast, the Coast Starlight connecting destinations up and down the West Coast, the Empire Builder connecting Chicago and Midwestern cities to the Northwest, and many more.

Amtrak from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL train information:

Average Duration: 10 h 33 min
Cheapest Price: $82

Traveling by train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

The train connection between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities. Operated by Amtrak, the journey offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures daily, passengers can easily plan their trip while enjoying onboard amenities that make travel enjoyable. Whether you're heading to Buffalo's rich history or Chicago's bustling urban landscape, this rail service provides an efficient link between two iconic American destinations.

Train Connection: Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL takes approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes. There is 1 connection per day for this route; however, the trains are not direct. Passengers can expect a layover of about 1 hour and 53 minutes during their trip.

Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

The first daily train journey departs from Buffalo at 4:39 AM and arrives in Chicago at 5:39 AM. This early morning connection allows travelers to start their day with a scenic ride between these two cities.

Train Tickets Price for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Buffalo to Chicago is $66 (59.4€). The average ticket price tends to be around $113 (101.7€), making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.

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 every turn. 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, interactive fountains, and outdoor concert venues such as Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park truly embodies Chicago's spirit of creativity and community engagement.

Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination opened in 1916 that stretches along Lake Michigan with endless entertainment options. It boasts unique features like rides at Pier Park—including one of America's largest Ferris wheels—and hosts cultural events throughout the year at places like Aon Grand Ballroom or Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Whether you're looking to enjoy scenic boat tours or indulge your taste buds with local cuisine at various eateries along this lively pier area, Navy Pier promises unforgettable experiences against a backdrop of beautiful lakefront views.

FAQs: Trains from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL

FAQs: Travel by train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.

Yes, you can take a train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL. Alongside trains, other available transportation modes include buses and flights.

The cheapest way to get from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is by bus, with prices starting at €52.

A day trip from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL by train is not feasible as it takes 10 hours and 33 minutes to travel one way, spanning a distance of 729 km. With only two trains available per day, it would be challenging to complete a round trip within the same day.

Chicago, IL, offers numerous attractions, and the duration of your stay can vary based on personal interest. However, three to four days is typically enough to explore major sites like Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry while also having time for architectural tours along the Chicago River and sampling local cuisine.

Yes, there is a direct train service between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL. Amtrak operates this route with a frequency of two direct trains.

The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL typically takes around 10 hours and 33 minutes and covers a distance of 729 kilometers. Trains on this route generally run with a frequency of two per day.

The first train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:39 AM.

There is no high-speed train between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL, as the journey covers a distance of 729 km and takes approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes, which is not characteristic of high-speed rail services.

The last train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL departs at 21:30.

There is no sleeper train available from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL. The last train journey departs at 21:30.

The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL presents travelers with scenic views, particularly as it passes through landscapes of upstate New York, around the Great Lakes, and through areas showcasing the countryside of Ohio and Indiana. These views provide changing scenery that varies from urban settings to rural landscapes, allowing passengers to experience the diverse geography connecting the two cities.

Explore the ***Museum of Science and Industry***, where interactive exhibits cover a wide range of topics including science, technology, and industry. Discover the vibrant neighborhoods of ***Wicker Park*** and ***Lincoln Park***, which offer unique shops and eateries. Enjoy a different view of Chicago's iconic architecture by taking a river cruise. Attend a performance at the historic ***Chicago Theatre*** or spend the day at ***Lincoln Park Zoo***, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. with free admission. For best sights, don't miss ***Millennium Park***, boasting modern art installations and the iconic ***Cloud Gate*** sculpture. Visit the ***Art Institute of Chicago*** with its extensive art collections. Enjoy ***Navy Pier*** for rides, restaurants, and stunning lakefront views. Get panoramic city views from the ***Willis Tower Skydeck***, and visit the ***Field Museum*** to see its vast natural history exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, ***Sue***.