- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
One of the largest art museums in the United States, known for major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Showing times and prices for May 30
Cheapest price
$277
Average price
$428
Fastest journey
21 h 54 m
Average duration
23 h 13 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
1368 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA will cost around $428 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $277.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Boston, MA on Sat, May 30, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, May 30 the direct trains cover the 1368 km distance in an average of 23 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 21 h 54 m .
On Sat, May 30 the slowest trains will take 1 d 4 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.
448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM21h54Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:24 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2771One-way0 transfers- 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM22h02Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:32 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2771One-way0 transfers
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM22h02Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:32 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$3101One-way1 transfer
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM21h54Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:24 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$3101One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 132 Northeast Regional6:40 PM28h19Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:59 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$6971One-way1 transfer
- 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM21h54Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:24 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2771One-way0 transfers
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM21h54Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:24 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$3101One-way1 transfer
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM22h02Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:32 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$3101One-way1 transfer
- 448 Lake Shore Limited9:30 PM22h02Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:32 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2771One-way0 transfers
- 41 Floridian · 132 Northeast Regional6:40 PM28h12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:52 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$6971One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. 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 $62, and a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 850 miles (1368 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$366 Average price | $190 Average price Cheapest | $202 Average price | $304 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
22h 31m Average total duration 22h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 25h 57m Average total duration 25h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.1 - 8.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is a flight with an average price of $190 (€153).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA:
A flight is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA costing on average $202 (€163).
A flight is $176 (€142) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA costing on average $366 (€296).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Boston, MA take longer:
Train takes on average 22h 1m.
Bus takes on average 25h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Boston, MA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $366 (€296) compared to roughly $304 (€245) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-62.61 (€-50.51). The journey takes 22h 1m versus 14h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Boston, MA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Boston, MA trains for today, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 448 Lake Shore Limited | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h54 | 8:24 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 22h02 | 8:32 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
| 448 Lake Shore Limited | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 22h02 | 8:32 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 48 Lake Shore Limited · 448 Lake Shore Limited | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h54 | 8:24 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA?
The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Boston, MA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA.
Trains
from $132Buses
from $152Flights
from $191Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 22h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $90 (€73) but you can travel from only $62 (€50) 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 21h 54m.
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
Flight from $62 (€50)
Distance 850 miles (1368 km) |
Average train duration 22h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $90 (€73) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 21h 54m |
First train 6:10 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 77 days |
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
Flight from $62 (€50)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Boston, MA from $62 (€50). 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
21h 54m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€73)
Amtrak frequency
5 a day
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
Complete guide to Boston
Things to do in Boston
Discover the best of Boston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Boston trip today.
- Must visit
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A distinctive Venetian-style museum with art, architecture, and a celebrated courtyard; one of Boston’s most memorable cultural sites.
- Must visit
Museum of Science
A major science museum with interactive exhibits, family-friendly displays, and a planetarium on the Charles River.
- Must visit
Freedom Trail
Boston’s best-known walking route linking many of the city’s historic sites, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Boston Common
The oldest public park in the United States and a central green space for strolling, events, and city views.
- Must visit
Public Garden
A beautifully landscaped historic garden known for its lagoon, footbridge, flowers, and Swan Boats.
New England Clam Chowder
A creamy soup with clams, potatoes, and onions, closely associated with Boston and the wider New England coast.
Lobster Roll
A classic New England sandwich of lobster meat in a toasted split-top bun, often served warm with butter or chilled with mayo.
- Gluten-free
Boston Baked Beans
Slow-cooked beans traditionally baked with molasses and salt pork; the dish helped give Boston its nickname, Beantown.
Oleana
Highly regarded Cambridge-area restaurant near Boston known for refined Eastern Mediterranean cooking and a warm, upscale atmosphere.
Neptune Oyster
Small, famous North End seafood spot celebrated for lobster rolls, oysters, and polished raw bar service.
Mike's Pastry
Iconic North End pastry shop best known for cannoli and other Italian-American desserts in a lively, casual atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Boston is expensive by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though casual eats and transit are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $90 (€73), while the average price is around $366 (€296).
The train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA takes 21h 54m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is 850 miles (1368 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA leaves at 6:10 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Boston, MA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to South Station, Boston, MA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is by flight, with a cost of around $62 (€50).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA on the Lake Shore Limited offers some scenic views, particularly as it travels along the southern shore of Lake Michigan and through the Hudson River Valley in upstate New York. However, much of the route passes through urban areas and forests, which may limit expansive views compared to more mountainous or coastal train routes.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is not feasible, as the journey takes 21h 54m and covers 850 miles (1368 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
Explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill and take a scenic walk along the Charles River Esplanade. Visit the Boston Public Library and enjoy a guided tour of the USS Constitution. Discover Quincy Market's vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Common, and the New England Aquarium.
To fully experience Boston, MA, plan for 3 to 4 days to explore its historic sites, museums, and neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA include Providence, RI, New London, CT, Kingston, RI, Wells, ME, Old Saybrook, CT.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and bag theft, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services, stay alert in busy areas, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to ensure safety.
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 Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Chicago
Boston
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 Boston.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
24Wifi
- Free
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
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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
The major train station for arrivals in Boston is South Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at South Station for your journey to Boston from Chicago.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
13Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Atlantic Avenue.
Dining
- Legal Sea Foods
- Tavern in the Square
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- InterContinental Boston
- The Langham, Boston
- Boston Harbor Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- 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.
Public transit options for South Station
- Subway: Red Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Multiple lines
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
5Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with several garages in the vicinity.
Dining
- Sorellina
- Atlantic Fish Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Copley Square Hotel
- The Westin Copley Place
- Fairmont Copley Plaza
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail
- Hall 2: Orange Line subway platforms
Public transit options for Back Bay Station
- Subway: Orange Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Framingham/Worcester Line, Franklin Line, Needham Line, Providence/Stoughton Line
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Boston, MA and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Boston, MA
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