Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE train with Amtrak

Mon, Jun 01
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE

Showing times and prices for Jun 01

Cheapest price

$228

Average price

$241

Fastest journey

10 h 36 m

Average duration

13 h 46 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

762 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE 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 Lincoln, NE will cost around $241 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $228.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Lincoln, NE on Mon, Jun 01, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 01 the direct trains cover the 762 km distance in an average of 13 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 36 m .

On Mon, Jun 01 the slowest trains will take 16 h 56 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.

  • Amtrak381 Carl Sandburg · 5 California Zephyr
    7:40 AM16h56
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    12:36 AMHaymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
    $2281One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak5 California Zephyr
    2:00 PM10h36
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    12:36 AMHaymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
    $2541One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $68. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $68, and a flight costs an average of $217.

Distance: 473 miles (762 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$160

Average price

$413

Average price

$114

Average price

Cheapest

$118

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

11h 0m

Average total duration

10h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

13h 38m

Average total duration

13h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.3 - 4.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Lincoln, NE is a bus with an average price of $114 (€92).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE:

A bus is $46 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE costing on average $160 (€129).

A bus is $299 (€240) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE costing on average $413 (€332).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 10m.

Other travel options to Lincoln, NE take longer:

Train takes on average 10h 30m.

Bus takes on average 13h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Lincoln, NE including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE 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 $160 (€129) compared to roughly $118 (€95) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-42.56 (€-34.26). The journey takes 10h 30m versus 7h 55m 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 Lincoln, NE train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak381 Carl Sandburg · 5 California Zephyr7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
16h56
12:36 AM Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE1 transfer
Amtrak5 California Zephyr2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
10h36
12:36 AM Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE0 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 Lincoln, NE 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.

Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE run on average 2 times per day, taking around 10h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€54) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:27, the last at 14:00. The fastest train covers the 473 miles (762 km) distance in 10h 36m.

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
Distance
473 miles (762 km)
Average train duration
10h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$67 (€54)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
10h 36m
First train
3:27 AM
Last train
2:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
91 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

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Lincoln, NE from $67 (€54). 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
10h 36m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€54)
Amtrak frequency
2 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
Learn more about Amtrak

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€54), while the average price is around $160 (€129).
The train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE takes 10h 36m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE leaves at 3:27 AM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE is 473 miles (762 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE leaves at 2:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Lincoln, NE is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE is by train, with a cost of around $67 (€54).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. As you leave Chicago, you'll experience cityscapes, which gradually transition into the picturesque Midwestern landscapes with vast farmlands and small towns, providing a pleasant and varied view throughout the trip.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE is not feasible as the travel duration is 10h 36m. There are 2 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 473 miles (762 km).
To fully explore Lincoln, NE, including its cultural sites, parks, and attractions, a stay of two to three days is generally recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Lincoln, NE 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 Lincoln, NE include Omaha, NE, Hastings, NE.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE 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 Lincoln, NE, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include fake ticket sellers and unauthorized ride services. It's advisable to use official transportation providers and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night. Always keep personal belongings secure and verify ticket sources to avoid fraud.
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 Lincoln, NE

Chicago
Lincoln
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 Lincoln.
Union StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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
address
Address
225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
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 Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE

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

Return journeys for trains from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL
Tickets and more information for trains to Chicago, IL
Tickets and more information for trains to Lincoln, NE

Most popular trains to and from Lincoln, NE and Chicago, IL

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Train Indianapolis, IN - Lincoln, NE
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Train Philadelphia, PA - Lincoln, NE
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Train Visalia, CA - Lincoln, NE
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Train Chicago, IL - Washington, DC
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Train Tacoma, WA - Lincoln, NE
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Most popular train connections to Lincoln, NE

Train Denver, CO - Lincoln, NE
Train Omaha, NE - Lincoln, NE
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Lincoln, NEChicago, IL to Lincoln, NE train

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