The cheapest and fastest trains from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$185
Average price
$185
Fastest journey
8 h 56 m
Average duration
8 h 56 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
626 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Erie, PA 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 Erie, PA to Chicago, IL will cost around $185 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $185.
Of the 1 trains that leave Erie, PA for Chicago, IL on Thu, Nov 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 27 the direct trains cover the 626 km distance in an average of 8 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 56 m .
On Thu, Nov 27 the slowest trains will take 8 h 56 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.


Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 56m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €38, and a train costs an average of €59.
Distance: 388 miles (626 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€156 Average price | €65 Average price Cheapest |
9h 26m Average total duration Fastest 8h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 45m Average total duration 10h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Erie, PA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Erie, PA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Wednesday, November 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 6:16 AM Erie, PA | 8h56 | 3:12 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Erie, PA to Chicago, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Nov 27
Nov 28
Nov 29
Nov 30
Dec 01
Dec 02
Dec 03
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Trains from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:16, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 388 miles (626 km) distance in 8h 56m.
Distance 388 miles (626 km) |
Average train duration 8h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 8h 56m |
First train 02:16 |
Last train 21:30 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Erie, PA and Chicago, IL from $47 (€38). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Erie, PA and Chicago, IL is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and scenic views as you traverse the distance of approximately 450 miles. With multiple daily departures, passengers can enjoy a hassle-free experience while exploring these two cities rich in culture and attractions. Whether you're heading to Erie’s picturesque waterfront or Chicago's iconic skyline, Amtrak provides an excellent option for your travel needs.
Train Connection: Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Traveling from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL takes approximately 8 hours and 56 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day on this route. Passengers will depart from Erie Station, PA and arrive at Union Station, IL.
Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Erie at 6:16 AM and arrives in Chicago at 7:16 AM. This early morning connection allows travelers to start their day with a scenic ride through the beautiful landscapes between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Erie to Chicago is $58 (52.2€). This fare provides an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Landmarks
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper not only symbolizes Chicago's architectural innovation but also offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass ledges that extend four feet outside of the building! As we explore this landmark, you'll discover how it has become a vital part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience urban heights.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant public space designed to enhance community engagement through art and culture. The park features unique attractions like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—which reflects both visitors and stunning cityscapes while serving as a gathering point for locals and tourists alike. With its lush gardens, outdoor concerts at Pritzker Pavilion, and interactive installations such as Crown Fountain, Millennium Park truly embodies Chicago’s spirit of creativity.
Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination that opened in 1916 originally intended for shipping goods but has since transformed into one of America’s most popular leisure spots. Stretching over six hundred thousand square feet along Lake Michigan with amusement rides like The Centennial Wheel offering panoramic views alongside cultural venues such as theaters and museums makes it perfect for family fun or romantic strolls by sunset. Whether you're indulging in local cuisine or enjoying seasonal festivals here at Navy Pier—the energy is contagious!
FAQs: Trains from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erie, PA 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Erie, PA to Chicago, IL
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- 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.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Erie, PA
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