Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI train with Amtrak

Wed, Nov 26
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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Amtrak
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Showing times and prices for Nov 26

Cheapest price

$135

Average price

$153

Fastest journey

5 h 20 m

Average duration

7 h 13 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

384 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI will cost around $153 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $135.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Detroit, MI on Wed, Nov 26, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Nov 26 the direct trains cover the 384 km distance in an average of 7 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 20 m .

On Wed, Nov 26 the slowest trains will take 9 h 5 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.

Amtrak354 Wolverine
05:50PM5h20
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
12:10AMDetroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
$1351One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
09:30PM9h05
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
07:35AMDetroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
$1701One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €27, and a flight costs an average of €40.

Distance: 238 miles (384 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€60

Average price

€44

Average price

Cheapest

€210

Average price

6h 0m

Average total duration

5h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 1m

Average total duration

5h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 22m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:58 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK3:30 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
9h05
12:35 PM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI1 transfer
amtrak354 Wolverine11:50 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5h20
5:10 AM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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.

Wed
Nov 26
Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI?

The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€35) but you can travel from only $34 (€27) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 238 miles (384 km) distance in 5h 20m.

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 $34 (€27)
Distance
238 miles (384 km)
Average train duration
5h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$44 (€35)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
5h 20m
First train
04:56
Last train
21:30
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 $34 (€27)

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI from $34 (€27). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Detroit, MI, is typically sufficient to explore major attractions like the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Henry Ford Museum, and the Detroit Riverwalk, while also enjoying the city's vibrant food scene and cultural experiences.
In Detroit, MI, visitors can explore the Motown Museum for a glimpse into the city's musical heritage, enjoy fresh produce and local goods at Eastern Market, and dive into history at the Detroit Historical Museum. Animal lovers can visit the Detroit Zoo, while sports enthusiasts can catch a game at Comerica Park. Art and culture are prominent at the Detroit Institute of Arts and The Henry Ford. For outdoor activities, the Detroit Riverwalk and Belle Isle Park offer scenic views and recreational opportunities. The Guardian Building is a must-see for its stunning Art Deco architecture.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is 238 miles (384 km).
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 20m and the distance is 238 miles (384 km). However, there are 5 train trips available per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI leaves at 4:56 AM.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Great Lakes region, industrial landscapes, and small towns, though it is not typically considered among the most scenic routes in the U.S.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€35), while the average price is around $74 (€60).
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€27).
The train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI takes 5h 20m and runs 5 per day.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Detroit, MI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Chicago
Detroit
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Detroit.
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

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