Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sat, Feb 14
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Feb 16

Cheapest price

$141

Average price

$141

Fastest journey

11 h 12 m

Average duration

14 h 48 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

762 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lincoln, NE 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 Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL will cost around $141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $141.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Lincoln, NE for Chicago, IL on Mon, Feb 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Feb 16 the direct trains cover the 762 km distance in an average of 14 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 12 m .

On Mon, Feb 16 the slowest trains will take 18 h 24 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.

Amtrak6 California Zephyr
03:27AM11h12
Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
02:39PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$1411One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak6 California Zephyr · 382 Carl Sandburg
03:27AM18h24
Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
09:51PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$1421One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €59. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €59, and a flight costs an average of €209.

Distance: 473 miles (762 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€119

Average price

€99

Average price

Cheapest

€352

Average price

11h 45m

Average total duration

11h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 50m

Average total duration

11h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 13m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

2.3 - 4.6kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Monday, February 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:39 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak6 California Zephyr · 382 Carl Sandburg9:27 AM Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
18h24
3:51 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak6 California Zephyr9:27 AM Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE
11h12
8:39 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 Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL by train or flight

Compare 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.

Mon
Feb 16
Tue
Feb 17
Wed
Feb 18
Thu
Feb 19
Fri
Feb 20
Sat
Feb 21
Sun
Feb 22

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL

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Trains from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 11h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $68 (€54) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:27, the last at 17:00. The fastest train covers the 473 miles (762 km) distance in 11h 12m.

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
Distance
473 miles (762 km)
Average train duration
11h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$68 (€54)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
11h 12m
First train
03:27
Last train
17:00
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

Train companies: Amtrak from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Lincoln, NE and Chicago, IL from $68 (€54). 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
11h 12m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€76)
Amtrak frequency
2 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

FAQs: Trains from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lincoln, NE 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
Train ticket prices from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $68 (€54), while the average price is around $151 (€119).
The train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL takes 11h 12m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL is 473 miles (762 km).
The first train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL leaves at 3:27 AM.
The last train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Lincoln, NE that goes to Chicago, IL is Haymarket Station, Lincoln, NE, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $68 (€54).
The train journey from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL offers a mix of scenic views, including the rolling farmlands of Iowa and the Mississippi River, providing a picturesque Midwestern landscape.
A day trip from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the travel time is 11h 12m. Trains run 2 times per day.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL

Lincoln
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Lincoln is Haymarket Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Haymarket Station for your trip from Lincoln to Chicago.
Haymarket Station
information

Most popular train connections from Lincoln, NE

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