- Recommended
Imagination Station
Hands-on science museum on Purdue’s campus with interactive exhibits and a public observatory. A strong family-friendly stop for curious visitors.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €35 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, while a flight costs an average of €172.
Distance: 105 miles (170 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€57 Average price | €35 Average price Cheapest | €172 Average price | €30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 31m Average total duration 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration 2h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 1h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN is a bus with an average price of €35.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN:
A bus is €23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN costing on average €57.
A bus is €137 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN costing on average €172.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.
Other travel options to West Lafayette, IN take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 36m.
Train takes on average 3h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and West Lafayette, IN including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN 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 €57 compared to roughly €30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-26.81. The journey takes 3h 1m versus 1h 54m 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 West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN run on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €30 but you can travel from only €18 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:58, the last at 17:55. The fastest train covers the 105 miles (170 km) distance in 3h 1m.
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 €18
Distance 105 miles (170 km) |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price €30 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 6:58 AM |
Last train 5:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 €18
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and West Lafayette, IN from €18. 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 Amtrak Duration
3h 1m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€30
Amtrak frequency
1 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 West Lafayette, IN
Things to do in West Lafayette, IN
Discover the best of West Lafayette, IN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect West Lafayette, IN trip today.
- Recommended
Purdue University Galleries
Student-run galleries presenting rotating contemporary art and design exhibitions in Purdue’s Yue-Kong Pao Hall. Good for a short cultural visit.
Purdue Memorabilia Museum
A specialized gallery showcasing Purdue artifacts, athletic history, and university heritage inside a central campus visitor destination.
- Must visit
Memorial Mall
Popular Purdue gathering place lined with trees and major academic buildings. Ideal for a first walk through the heart of campus.
- Recommended
Slayter Hill
Broad grassy hillside used for concerts, relaxing, and campus views. A local favorite for sunsets and open-air events.
- Recommended
Tapawingo Park
Scenic riverfront park and trail area with walking paths, open lawns, and views back toward Purdue and the downtown bridges.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €30, while the average price is around €57.
The train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN runs once a day and takes approximately 3h 1m.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN is 105 miles (170 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN leaves at 6:58 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN leaves at 5:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to West Lafayette, IN is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Lafayette Station, Lafayette, IN.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN is by bus, with a cost of around €18.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN include Indianapolis, IN.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, especially in crowded areas near Purdue University. Scams involving fake ticket sales or overcharging for transportation services can occur, so it's important to purchase tickets through official platforms. Staying aware of surroundings and using trusted transportation providers 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 West Lafayette, IN
Most Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN trains use the Union Station to Lafayette Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to West Lafayette, IN leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from West Lafayette, IN and Chicago, IL
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