Chicago, IL to State College, PA train

Tue, Sep 15
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
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 State College, PA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

€186

Average ticket price on Sep 15

€186

Fastest journey on Sep 15

18 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

18 h 10 m

Trains on Sep 15

1

Distance

825 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to State College, 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 State College, PA will cost around €186 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €186.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 1 trains from Chicago, IL to State College, PA, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 825 km distance in an average of 18 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 18 h 10 m .

On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 18 h 10 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.

  • Amtrak
    11:40 PM18h10
    Chicago, IL
    5:50 PMState College, PA
    1861One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to State College, PA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to State College, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €84 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €84, while a flight costs an average of €528.

Distance: 512 miles (825 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

€84

Average price

Cheapest

€528

Average price

€96

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

14h 39m

Average total duration

14h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 40m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

8h 46m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to State College, PA is a bus with an average price of €84.

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to State College, PA:

A bus is €444 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to State College, PA costing on average €528.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to State College, PA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 40m.

Other travel options to State College, PA take longer:

Bus takes on average 14h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and State College, PA 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 State College, PA among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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.

Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA

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Take a train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA and enjoy the approximately 512 miles (825 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

The earliest train runs at 13:25, the last at 18:40.

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 €48
Distance
512 miles (825 km)
First train
1:25 PM
Last train
6:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
63 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
Bus from €48

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to State College, PA

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA is 512 miles (825 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA leaves at 1:25 PM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA leaves at 6:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to State College, PA is by bus, with a cost of around €48.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to State College, PA offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the scenic Allegheny Mountains and charming small towns, providing a pleasant and varied viewing experience.
In State College, PA, you can explore Penn State University and its attractions, including Beaver Stadium, where you can experience the excitement of a Penn State Nittany Lions football game. Downtown State College offers local shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy a peaceful walk at The Arboretum at Penn State, or attend concerts and events at the Bryce Jordan Center. Must-see sights include the Palmer Museum of Art and the Penn State Berkey Creamery, where you can enjoy a variety of ice cream flavors. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Nittany is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views.
For a fulfilling visit to State College, PA, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows enough time to explore major attractions such as Penn State University, the Arboretum, and the Palmer Museum of Art, while also enjoying the local dining and shopping options.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor State College, 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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to State College, 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 State College, PA, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft and pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like downtown and near Penn State University. Scam risks include overpriced taxi services and unofficial ticket resellers. It’s advisable to use authorized transportation providers and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night.
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 State College, PA

Most Chicago, IL to State College, PA trains use the Union Station to State College, Greyhound Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and State College, PA 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 State College

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to State College, PA leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

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