- Recommended
AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center
Historic 1938 Art Deco cinema and cultural venue presenting classic, independent, and international film programs in downtown Silver Spring.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $136. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 14h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $136, and a flight costs an average of $432.
Distance: 592 miles (953 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$241 Average price | $136 Average price Cheapest | $432 Average price | $140 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 19m Average total duration 23h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 28m Average total duration 18h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 16m Average total duration Fastest 14h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD is a bus with an average price of $136 (€110).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD:
A bus is $105 (€85) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD costing on average $241 (€195).
A bus is $297 (€239) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD costing on average $432 (€349).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD is by flight with an average journey time of 14h 16m.
Other travel options to Silver Spring, MD take longer:
Bus takes on average 18h 58m.
Train takes on average 23h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD 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 $241 (€195) compared to roughly $140 (€113) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-100.84 (€-81.40). The journey takes 23h 49m versus 10h 16m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD run on average 6 times per day, taking around 23h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $241 (€195) but you can travel from only $136 (€110) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 592 miles (953 km) distance in 23h 49m.
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 $136 (€110)
Distance 592 miles (953 km) |
Average train duration 23h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $241 (€195) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 23h 49m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $136 (€110)
Complete guide to Silver Spring
Things to do in Silver Spring
Discover the best of Silver Spring — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Silver Spring trip today.
- Recommended
National Museum of Health and Medicine
Medical history museum with military medicine, pathology, and forensic exhibits, located nearby in the Silver Spring area.
Montgomery Art Association Gallery at Brookside Gardens
Community-focused art gallery space featuring rotating exhibitions by local artists within the Brookside Gardens complex.
- Must visit
Downtown Silver Spring
The city's most active district for walking, events, public art, shopping, and nightlife, with easy transit access and frequent festivals.
- Must visit
Brookside Gardens
Large public botanical garden known for landscaped paths, seasonal blooms, conservatories, and strong photo appeal.
- Recommended
Ellsworth Drive
Pedestrian-friendly main strip lined with entertainment venues, plazas, and seasonal programming in the heart of downtown.
Maryland Crab Cakes
Pan-seared cakes made with sweet blue crab and minimal filler, a Chesapeake regional classic commonly found around Silver Spring.
- Gluten-free
Steamed Blue Crabs With Old Bay
Whole blue crabs steamed and heavily seasoned with Old Bay, a beloved Maryland seafood tradition tied to local summer gatherings.
Half-Smoke
A smoky, coarse-ground sausage linked to the Washington area, often served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions.
Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe
Long-running Burmese restaurant known for tea leaf salad, curries, and a warm neighborhood setting in Downtown Silver Spring.
The Salt Line Silver Spring
Popular seafood restaurant and oyster bar known for New England style seafood, crab dishes, and a lively polished atmosphere.
Mi Rancho
Established Mexican and Salvadoran restaurant popular for fajitas, pupusas, and margaritas in a casual family-friendly space.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual meals are manageable, but rents and full-service dining are pricier due to the Washington, DC area.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast casual or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip delivery drivers and hotel staff.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $241 (€195), while the average price is around $241 (€195).
The train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD takes 23h 49m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD leaves at 3:20 AM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD is 592 miles (953 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD leaves at 9:30 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Silver Spring, MD is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD is by bus, with a cost of around $136 (€110).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Midwest's landscapes, rivers, and small towns, particularly as the route traverses through parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. While it may not be as famously scenic as some routes, it provides a pleasant and varied experience for travelers.
For a fulfilling visit to Silver Spring, MD, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient to explore its cultural attractions, parks, and dining options.
No, you cannot take the train from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD include Philadelphia, PA, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Martinsburg, WV, Newark, DE.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and ride-sharing overcharges. Staying alert in busy spots like downtown and transit hubs helps ensure 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 Silver Spring, MD
Chicago
Silver Spring
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
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Silver Spring, MD
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Silver Spring, MD and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Silver Spring, MD
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