4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Cheapest price
$300
Average price
$306
Fastest journey
19 h 42 m
Average duration
23 h 10 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
1340 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA will cost around $306 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $300.
Of the 4 trains that leave Chicago, IL for New Orleans, LA on Wed, May 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 1340 km distance in an average of 23 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 42 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 1 d 5 h 32 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.
393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans4:05 PM21h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3001One-way1 transfer- 391 Saluki · 59 City Of New Orleans8:15 AM29h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3031One-way1 transfer
- 393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans4:05 PM21h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3031One-way1 transfer
- 59 City Of New Orleans6:05 PM19h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3171One-way0 transfers
- 59 City Of New Orleans6:05 PM19h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3171One-way0 transfers
- 393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans4:05 PM21h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3001One-way1 transfer
- 393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans4:05 PM21h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3031One-way1 transfer
- 391 Saluki · 59 City Of New Orleans8:15 AM29h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$3031One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $99. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 38m. 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 bus costs an average of $99, and a train costs an average of $124.
Distance: 832 miles (1340 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$249 Average price | $197 Average price | $197 Average price Cheapest | $190 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
20h 13m Average total duration 19h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 2h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 6m Average total duration 23h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.0 - 8.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $0.12 (€0.10) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $197 (€159).
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $249 (€201).
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 43m.
Bus takes on average 23h 36m.
Tickets start at around $249 (€201) compared to roughly $190 (€153) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-59.26 (€-47.80). The journey takes 19h 43m versus 13h 29m 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 New Orleans, LA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA trains for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 391 Saluki · 59 City Of New Orleans | 8:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 29h32 | 1:47 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
| 393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans | 4:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h42 | 1:47 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
| 393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans | 4:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h42 | 1:47 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
| 59 City Of New Orleans | 6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 19h42 | 1:47 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 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 New Orleans, LA 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 19h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $124 (€100) but you can travel from only $50 (€40) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 20:05. The fastest train covers the 832 miles (1340 km) distance in 19h 42m.
Distance 832 miles (1340 km) |
Average train duration 19h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $124 (€100) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 19h 42m |
First train 8:15 AM |
Last train 8:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA from $50 (€40). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Traveling between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and amenities that allow you to relax while enjoying the picturesque views along the route. With multiple departures throughout the week, passengers can easily plan their trip to experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans or explore the Windy City’s iconic attractions. Whether you're heading for jazz music in NOLA or deep-dish pizza in Chicago, Amtrak provides an efficient way to connect these two dynamic cities.
Train Connection: Chicago to New Orleans
Traveling from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA takes approximately 19 hours and 42 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day on this route. Passengers will depart from Union Station, IL and arrive at Union Passenger Terminal, LA.
Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
The first daily train journey departs from Chicago at 8:00 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant culture of New Orleans. The last departure leaves at 6:30 PM, allowing those who wish to enjoy a full day in the Windy City before heading south.
Train Tickets Price for Chicago to New Orleans
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is $123 (111.7€). The average ticket price tends to be around $162 (145.8€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in the United States.
Exploring the French Quarter: A Journey Through History and Culture
Welcome to the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, founded in 1718 and known for its vibrant culture and rich history. This area is significant not only for its stunning architecture but also as a melting pot of influences from Spanish, French, African, and Creole cultures that have shaped the city's unique identity. As you stroll through its lively streets filled with music and art, you'll discover charming courtyards and iconic buildings like the colorful facades of Bourbon Street.
Next up is St. Louis Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that has stood since 1789 at Jackson Square's edge; it’s one of America’s oldest cathedrals still in use today. Its significance lies not just in its age but also as a symbol of faith for generations of locals while serving as a backdrop to countless historical events throughout New Orleans' tumultuous past. The cathedral features stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes along with intricate sculptures that will leave you awestruck by their beauty.
Finally, we arrive at Jackson Square—a historic park named after General Andrew Jackson—where visitors can soak up local life amidst artists showcasing their work against a backdrop steeped in history. This square holds great significance as it was once the site where important decisions were made during pivotal moments such as Louisiana's statehood declaration; it's truly where history comes alive! Unique features include street performers entertaining crowds daily alongside picturesque views framed by lush greenery—all inviting you to pause and appreciate this cultural hub before moving on your journey through our enchanting city.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Carts
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- 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.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, accessible 24/7.
- Cochon Restaurant
- Herbsaint
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
- Le Pavillon Hotel
- Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
- Hall 3: bus and streetcar connections
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: Loyola-UPT Line
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and Chicago, IL
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