- Must visit
Chazen Museum of Art
This free university museum combines art, archaeology, and natural science collections, including rotating exhibitions in a central campus location.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15
Cheapest price on Oct 15
€49
Average ticket price on Oct 15
€55
Fastest journey on Oct 15
4 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 15
4 h 50 m
Trains on Oct 15
2
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI without transferring at least once.
329 Hiawatha Service · 8179 Connecting Bus6:10 AM5h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:30 AMMadison, WI€491One-way1 transfer- 337 Hiawatha Service · 8185 Connecting Bus3:15 PM4h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:35 PMMadison, WI€601One-way1 transfer
- 337 Hiawatha Service · 8185 Connecting Bus3:15 PM4h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:35 PMMadison, WI€601One-way1 transfer
- 329 Hiawatha Service · 8179 Connecting Bus6:10 AM5h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:30 AMMadison, WI€491One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
USAUSA
Take a train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI and enjoy the approximately 123 miles (198 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 02:45, the last at 17:30.
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 €19
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
First train 2:45 AM |
Last train 5:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 €19
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Madison, WI train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI trains for today, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 329 Hiawatha Service · 8179 Connecting Bus | 6:10 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 5h20 | 11:30 AM Madison, WI | 1 transfer | |
| 337 Hiawatha Service · 8185 Connecting Bus | 3:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4h20 | 7:35 PM Madison, WI | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to Madison, WI
Things to do in Madison, WI
Discover the best of Madison, WI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madison, WI trip today.
- Recommended
Wisconsin Historical Museum
The state's history museum presents Wisconsin stories through artifacts, exhibits, and Capitol Square access that fits easily into downtown sightseeing.
- Recommended
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
A compact contemporary art museum on State Street known for rotating exhibitions, community programming, and easy access while exploring downtown.
- Must visit
State Street
Madison's central promenade links campus and the Capitol with shops, performances, and frequent street life. It is ideal for an easy city walk.
- Must visit
Capitol Square
This downtown square surrounds the Capitol and hosts markets, events, and historic facades. It is the heart of Madison's civic life.
- Recommended
James Madison Park
A popular lakeside park with a beach, bike paths, skyline views, and summer activity. It is one of the city's best outdoor gathering spots.
Bratwurst
Bratwurst is a Wisconsin staple, often grilled and served on a hard roll with mustard and sauerkraut, reflecting the state's strong German heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheese Curds
Fresh cheese curds are young cheddar curds known for their squeak. They are a signature Wisconsin dairy snack, often eaten plain or fried.
Friday Fish Fry
A Friday fish fry features battered or breaded fish with fries, coleslaw, and rye bread. It is a long-standing Wisconsin supper club and tavern tradition.
L'Etoile
Refined farm-to-table restaurant serving seasonal tasting menus and polished New American dishes in an intimate setting.
The Old Fashioned
Historic Madison spot known for burgers, cheese curds, and a classic fish fry in a casual tavern setting near the Capitol.
Graze
Popular casual restaurant and bar offering Wisconsin comfort food, brunch, beer, and cheese-focused dishes in a lively downtown space.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a US college city: hotels and dining are mid-priced, transit is affordable, and many casual food options keep daily costs reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if service is good.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI is 123 miles (198 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI leaves at 2:45 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI leaves at 5:30 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Madison, WI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Columbus Station, Columbus, WI.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI offers a pleasant view of the Midwest landscape, featuring glimpses of rural farmland, small towns, and natural scenery, though it is not typically considered exceptionally scenic compared to more renowned routes.
No, you cannot take the train from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
Popular day trips by train from Madison, WI include Wisconsin Dells, WI.
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 Madison, WI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near the university. Ride-sharing scams and overcharging can occur, so it's best to use official apps and verify driver details. Be aware of unsolicited offers for transportation or tours, as these may be fraudulent. Staying in well-lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Madison, WI
Most Chicago, IL to Madison, WI trains use the Union Station to Columbus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Madison, WI train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Madison
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Madison, WI leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · €3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madison, WI and Chicago, IL
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