Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu, Nov 20
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
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1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Nov 20

Cheapest price

$63

Average price

$72

Fastest journey

5 h 6 m

Average duration

5 h 21 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

384 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Detroit, MI for Chicago, IL on Thu, Nov 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 20 the direct trains cover the 384 km distance in an average of 5 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 6 m .

On Thu, Nov 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 29 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.

Amtrak351 Wolverine
06:26AM5h06
Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
10:32AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$631One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak355 Wolverine
06:11PM5h29
Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
10:40PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$761One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak353 Wolverine
09:35AM5h27
Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
02:02PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$761One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €36, and a flight costs an average of €187.

Distance: 238 miles (384 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€59

Average price

€47

Average price

Cheapest

€223

Average price

5h 50m

Average total duration

5h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 29m

Average total duration

5h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 27m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL trains for today, Wednesday, November 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:38 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak353 Wolverine2:35 PM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
5h27
8:02 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak355 Wolverine11:11 PM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
5h29
4:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Thursday, November 20
amtrak351 Wolverine11:26 AM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
5h06
4:32 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL 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.

Thu
Nov 20
Fri
Nov 21
Sat
Nov 22
Sun
Nov 23
Mon
Nov 24
Tue
Nov 25
Wed
Nov 26

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL 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 Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $45 (€36) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 238 miles (384 km) distance in 5h 6m.

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 $45 (€36)
Distance
238 miles (384 km)
Average train duration
5h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€40)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
5h 6m
First train
04:56
Last train
21:30
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 $45 (€36)

Train companies: Amtrak from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Detroit, MI and Chicago, IL from $45 (€36). 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
5h 6m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
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

FAQs: Trains from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is 238 miles (384 km).
A day trip from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 6m with trains running 3 times per day over a distance of 238 miles (384 km).
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
The first train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:56 AM.
The train journey from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is not considered particularly scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, with occasional views of suburban landscapes and small towns.
There is no high speed train available from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL.
Train ticket prices from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $72 (€59).
Yes, you can take the train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL.
The last train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The cheapest way to get from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $45 (€36).
The train from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL takes 5h 6m and runs 3 per day.
The train station in Detroit, MI that goes to Chicago, IL is Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL

Detroit
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Detroit is Detroit Amtrak. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Detroit Amtrak for your trip from Detroit to Chicago.
Detroit AmtrakWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station.
Dining
Dining
  • Cuisine Restaurant
  • New Center Eatery
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel St. Regis
  • The Inn on Ferry Street
  • MotorCity Casino Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas
  • platforms are accessible via the main entrance.
Public transit options for Detroit Amtrak
  • QLine streetcar
  • Bus: Several lines available

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI

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