- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 05
- Cheapest price on Nov 05
- $57
- Average ticket price on Nov 05
- $57
- Fastest journey on Nov 05
- 3 h 1 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 05
- 3 h 1 m
- Trains on Nov 05
- 1
- Distance
- 170 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN 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 West Lafayette, IN will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.
Fast trains
On Thu, Nov 05, we found 1 trains from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 170 km distance in an average of 3 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 1 m .
On Thu, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 1 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.
50 Cardinal5:55 PM 3h01 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL 9:56 PM Lafayette Station, Lafayette, IN $57 1 One-way 0 transfers
- 50 Cardinal
5:55 PM 3h01 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL 9:56 PM Lafayette Station, Lafayette, IN $57 1 One-way 0 transfers
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 $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $22 (€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 $22 (€18)
Distance 105 miles (170 km) |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
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 $22 (€18)
Frequently asked questions about your Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€31), while the average price is around $62 (€52).
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.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and West Lafayette, IN from $22 (€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
$37 (€31)
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chicago, IL and West Lafayette, IN
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
Yes, there is a night train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
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.
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.
Sugar Cream Pie
Indiana sugar cream pie is the state’s classic Hoosier dessert, a simple custard pie with cream, sugar and cinnamon, long tied to farm kitchens and church suppers.
Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is an Indiana staple: a pounded pork cutlet, fried crisp and served on a bun, famous across small-town diners and pubs.
Persimmon Pudding
Persimmon pudding is a traditional southern Indiana dessert made with native persimmon pulp, spices and sugar, often served warm with cream.
Triple XXX Family Restaurant
Popular brewery and gastropub known for house beers, burgers and pub fare in a lively, casual setting near Purdue.
Mountain Jack's
Long-running steak and seafood restaurant with a classic supper-club feel, known for prime rib and a traditional dining room.
East End Grill
Refined campus-area restaurant serving contemporary American dishes, cocktails and brunch in a polished but relaxed space.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a US college town; hotels spike on game days, dining is reasonable, and local transit is low cost or free on some routes.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated at cafes.
Plan your visit to West Lafayette, IN
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in West Lafayette, IN.
Popular day trips by train from West Lafayette, IN include Indianapolis, IN.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to West Lafayette, IN.
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 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 · $4 · 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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
