- Must visit
Florida Museum of Natural History
The state’s official natural history museum, known for Florida fossils, biodiversity exhibits, and family-friendly displays. A top cultural stop near the university.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$447
Average price
$515
Fastest journey
1 d 13 h 10 m
Average duration
1 d 13 h 10 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1438 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL will cost around $515 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $447.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Gainesville, FL on Sun, May 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 1438 km distance in an average of 1 d 13 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 13 h 10 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 1 d 13 h 10 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.
12:40 AM37h10Chicago, IL1:50 PMGainesville, FL$4471One-way0 transfers- 11:40 PM37h10Chicago, IL12:50 PMGainesville, FL$5821One-way0 transfers
- 12:40 AM37h10Chicago, IL1:50 PMGainesville, FL$4471One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 PM37h10Chicago, IL12:50 PMGainesville, FL$5821One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $133. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $133, and a flight costs an average of $378.
Distance: 893 miles (1438 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$384 Average price | $488 Average price | $183 Average price Cheapest | $206 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
37h 40m Average total duration 37h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 35m Average total duration Fastest 6h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 15m Average total duration 26h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL is a bus with an average price of $183 (€148).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL:
A bus is $200 (€161) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL costing on average $384 (€309).
A bus is $305 (€245) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL costing on average $488 (€393).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 35m.
Other travel options to Gainesville, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 26h 45m.
Train takes on average 37h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Gainesville, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 $384 (€309) compared to roughly $206 (€166) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-177.59 (€-142.90). The journey takes 37h 10m versus 15h 52m 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 Gainesville, FL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:40 PM Chicago, IL | 37h10 | 12:50 PM Gainesville, FL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, May 30 | |||||
| 12:40 AM Chicago, IL | 37h10 | 1:50 PM Gainesville, FL | 0 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 Gainesville, FL 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 37h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $267 (€215) but you can travel from only $133 (€107) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 18:40, the last at 20:00. The fastest train covers the 893 miles (1438 km) distance in 37h 10m.
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 $133 (€107)
Distance 893 miles (1438 km) |
Average train duration 37h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $267 (€215) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 37h 10m |
First train 6:40 PM |
Last train 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $133 (€107)
Complete guide to Gainesville
Things to do in Gainesville
Discover the best of Gainesville — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gainesville trip today.
- Must visit
Harn Museum of Art
A major university art museum with Asian, African, contemporary, and photography collections. Widely regarded for its strong exhibitions and free admission.
- Recommended
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
A hands-on museum focused on science, invention, and creativity, inspired by the inventor of Gatorade. Popular with families and visitors seeking interactive exhibits.
- Must visit
Downtown Gainesville
The city’s main walkable district, known for historic streetscapes, public art, events, and nightlife. A priority area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Depot Park
A highly popular urban park with lawns, water features, trails, and scenic views. Frequently featured on social media and excellent for a relaxed walk.
- Must visit
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
A vast natural preserve south of the city with trails, wildlife viewing, and broad prairie views. One of the area’s signature outdoor destinations.
Florida Gator Tail
A North Florida specialty made from alligator tail meat, usually fried or blackened. It is a regional dish strongly associated with Florida's hunting and swamp-food traditions.
Southern Fried Catfish
A classic in North Central Florida and the wider South, typically cornmeal-coated and fried. It is popular at local fish camps and casual family restaurants.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Barbecue Pork
Slow-smoked pork with regional Southern barbecue flavors, often served with beans, slaw, and sauce. Barbecue is a staple comfort food in Gainesville and inland Florida.
Embers Wood Grill
A well-known higher-end steakhouse featuring wood-grilled meats, seafood, and an elegant setting. Suitable for a polished dinner out.
Satchel's Pizza
One of Gainesville's most recognizable local restaurants, famous for pizza, salads, and quirky artistic decor. It has a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company
An established upscale-casual restaurant in downtown Gainesville, known for creative sushi, Japanese small plates, and a lively social atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for U.S. travel. Student-focused dining keeps casual meals affordable, while hotels and upscale dining cost more on busy weekends and event dates.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20% for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis or add 10-15%, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 as appropriate.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $267 (€215), while the average price is around $384 (€309).
The train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL runs once a day and takes approximately 37h 10m.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL is 893 miles (1438 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL leaves at 6:40 PM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL leaves at 8:00 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL is by bus, with a cost of around $133 (€107).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL offers varying scenery, including urban landscapes, Midwestern fields, and Southern woodlands, but is not typically highlighted as one of the more scenic routes in the U.S.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL is not feasible as the journey duration is 37h 10m. Trains operate only once per day on this route.
In Gainesville, FL, you can explore the vibrant local art scene at the Gainesville Artwalk, enjoy the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, or spend a day at Lake Wauburg with activities like boating and picnicking. Discover history at the Haile Homestead and catch a performance at the Hippodrome Theatre. For sightseeing, visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, and the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art.
To fully experience Gainesville, FL, including its attractions like the University of Florida campus, the Florida Museum of Natural History, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, plan for a 2 to 3-day visit.
No, you cannot take the train from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Gainesville, FL 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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near the University of Florida campus. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and ticket scams for local events. It's important to use authorized transportation services and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night to enhance personal 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 Gainesville, FL
Chicago
Gainesville
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 Gainesville.
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 Gainesville is Gainesville, Rosa Parks Regional Transit System Downtown Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gainesville, Rosa Parks Regional Transit System Downtown Station for your journey to Gainesville from Chicago.
Gainesville, Rosa Parks Regional Transit System Downtown Station
information
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
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Most popular trains to and from Gainesville, FL and Chicago, IL
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