- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
One of the city’s signature museums, famous for major collections spanning European, American, and Asian art, plus the iconic east steps.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$403
Average price
$1366
Fastest journey
19 h 19 m
Average duration
21 h 44 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
1069 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA will cost around $1366 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $403.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA without transferring at least once.
48 Lake Shore Limited · 167 Northeast Regional9:30 PM24h21Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL10:51 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$4031One-way1 transfer- 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian6:40 PM19h19Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2:59 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$11721One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 168 Northeast Regional6:40 PM21h35Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17291One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 146 Northeast Regional6:40 PM22h31Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL6:11 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17511One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 156 Northeast Regional6:40 PM20h52Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:32 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17781One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian6:40 PM19h19Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2:59 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$11721One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 156 Northeast Regional6:40 PM20h52Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:32 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17781One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 168 Northeast Regional6:40 PM21h35Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17291One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 146 Northeast Regional6:40 PM22h31Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL6:11 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$17511One-way1 transfer
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 167 Northeast Regional9:30 PM24h21Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL10:51 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$4031One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $98. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $98, and a flight costs an average of $82.
Distance: 664 miles (1069 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$249 Average price | $264 Average price | $199 Average price Cheapest | $314 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 24m Average total duration 20h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 24m Average total duration Fastest 3h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 50m Average total duration 20h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.2 - 6.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.7kg 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 Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of $199 (€161).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $249 (€201).
A bus is $65 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $264 (€213).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 24m.
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 20m.
Train takes on average 20h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
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 Philadelphia, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Cardinal | 5:55 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 25h56 | 8:51 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 41 Floridian · 178 Northeast Regional | 6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 22h08 | 5:48 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian | 6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 19h19 | 2:59 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 41 Floridian · 148 Northeast Regional | 6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h12 | 4:52 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
41 Floridian+ 2172 NextGen Acela | 6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 21h58 | 5:38 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 48 Lake Shore Limited · 177 Northeast Regional | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 25h15 | 11:45 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service | 9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 23h25 | 9:55 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA?
The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA.
Trains
from $200Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 20h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $97 (€79) but you can travel from only $82 (€67) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:37, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 664 miles (1069 km) distance in 19h 19m.
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 $82 (€67)
Distance 664 miles (1069 km) |
Average train duration 20h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€79) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 19h 19m |
First train 7:37 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 $82 (€67)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA from $82 (€67). 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
19h 19m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€79)
Amtrak frequency
7 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 Philadelphia
Things to do in Philadelphia
Discover the best of Philadelphia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia trip today.
- Must visit
The Barnes Foundation
Renowned art museum with an exceptional collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern works displayed in a unique installation style.
- Recommended
The Franklin Institute
Major science museum known for interactive exhibits, a giant heart walk-through, and family-friendly hands-on experiences.
- Must visit
Old City
Historic district packed with cobblestone streets, Revolution-era sites, galleries, and some of the city’s best walking for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Grand boulevard connecting Center City to major museums and Logan Square, ideal for architecture views, monuments, and ceremonial cityscape.
- Recommended
Rittenhouse Square
Elegant central square surrounded by upscale streets, classic architecture, and lively public space that remains one of Philadelphia’s most beloved neighborhoods.
Philly Cheesesteak
The city’s signature sandwich of thinly sliced beef and melted cheese in a long roll, often ordered with fried onions. It is Philadelphia’s most iconic street-food staple.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A classic Philadelphia sandwich with slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe on an Italian roll. Many locals consider it the city’s best traditional sandwich.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Soft Pretzel
Philadelphia-style soft pretzels are chewy, slightly salty, and commonly sold by street vendors and bakeries. They are a long-standing everyday snack in the city.
Reading Terminal Market
Historic indoor market with many established vendors serving Philadelphia classics, baked goods, and Pennsylvania Dutch specialties in a lively casual setting.
Zahav
Award-winning restaurant known for modern Israeli cooking, laffa, hummus, and polished service. It is one of Philadelphia’s most acclaimed dining experiences.
John's Roast Pork
A classic no-frills spot famous for roast pork sandwiches and excellent cheesesteaks. It is one of the city’s most respected traditional sandwich destinations.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but food, transit, and casual dining are generally 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 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $97 (€79), while the average price is around $249 (€201).
The train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA takes 19h 19m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is 664 miles (1069 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 7:37 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is by flight, with a cost of around $82 (€67).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the Midwest's agricultural landscapes, small towns, and stretches of rivers, though it may not be considered as scenic as routes passing through mountainous or coastal areas.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 19h 19m and the distance is 664 miles (1069 km). Trains run 7 times per day.
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances 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 Philadelphia, PA
Chicago
Philadelphia
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 Philadelphia.
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 Philadelphia is 30th Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at 30th Street Station for your journey to Philadelphia from Chicago.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:15 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via 30th Street and Market Street.
Dining
- Bridgewater's Pub
- The Porch at 30th Street Station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel
- Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
- The Study at University City
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Main Hall: entrance, ticketing, and waiting area
- Upper Level: Amtrak platforms
- Lower Level: SEPTA Regional Rail platforms
Public transit options for 30th Street Station
- SEPTA: Market-Frankford Line
- Trolley: Routes 10, 11, 13, 34, 36
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Philadelphia, PA and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Philadelphia, PA
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