Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL train

Tue, Jun 16
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
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2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jun 16

Cheapest price

$225

Average price

$225

Fastest journey

1 d 1 h 12 m

Average duration

1 d 1 h 12 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

994 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chapel Hill, NC 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 Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL will cost around $225 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $225.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Chapel Hill, NC for Chicago, IL on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 994 km distance in an average of 1 d 1 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 1 h 12 m .

On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 1 d 1 h 12 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.

  • Amtrak
    12:33 PM25h12
    Chapel Hill, NC
    1:45 PMChicago, IL
    $2251One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $159. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $159, and a flight costs an average of $302.

Distance: 617 miles (994 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$225

Average price

$302

Average price

$159

Average price

Cheapest

25h 42m

Average total duration

25h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

26h 0m

Average total duration

25h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $159 (€129).

This is compared to other travel options from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL:

A bus is $66 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL costing on average $225 (€182).

A bus is $143 (€115) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL costing on average $302 (€244).

The fastest way to travel from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 8m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 25h 12m.

Bus takes on average 25h 30m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chapel Hill, NC and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.

Live departures

Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak12:33 PM Chapel Hill, NC
25h12
1:45 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 25h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $225 (€182) but you can travel from only $159 (€129) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 18:40, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 617 miles (994 km) distance in 25h 12m.

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 $159 (€129)
Distance
617 miles (994 km)
Average train duration
25h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$225 (€182)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
25h 12m
First train
6:40 PM
Last train
6:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $159 (€129)

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

Art Institute Of Chicago

One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and large family-friendly science exhibits.

  • Must visit

Museum Of Science And Industry

Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park with a U-505 submarine, aviation exhibits, and immersive interactive displays.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Hotels can be pricey downtown, but food and transit offer good value.

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 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.

FAQs: Trains from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chapel Hill, NC 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $225 (€182), while the average price is around $225 (€182).
The train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL takes 25h 12m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:40 PM.
The distance by train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL is 617 miles (994 km).
The last train from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:40 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Chapel Hill, NC that goes to Chicago, IL is Cary Station, Cary, NC, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $159 (€129).
The train journey from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL offers some scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling hills and lush landscapes of North Carolina and Virginia. However, much of the route passes through urban and suburban areas, which may not be as visually striking.
A day trip from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 25h 12m and the distance is 617 miles (994 km). There are 4 trains per day.
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 Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Chapel Hill, NC 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chapel Hill, NC 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 Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

Chapel Hill
Chicago
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • 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.
Dining
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
  • Hall 2: Metra services
  • Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line

More options for your journey from Chapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, ILChapel Hill, NC to Chicago, IL train

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