- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$121
Average price
$189
Fastest journey
14 h 5 m
Average duration
18 h 20 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
887 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Little Rock, AR 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 Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL will cost around $189 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $121.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Little Rock, AR for Chicago, IL on Sun, Jul 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jul 12 the direct trains cover the 887 km distance in an average of 18 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 h 5 m .
On Sun, Jul 12 the slowest trains will take 22 h 59 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.
22 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service11:44 PM22h59Union Station, Little Rock, AR10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$1211One-way1 transfer- 22 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner11:44 PM20h16Union Station, Little Rock, AR8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$1411One-way1 transfer
- 22 Texas Eagle11:44 PM14h05Union Station, Little Rock, AR1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2001One-way0 transfers
- 422 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service11:44 PM22h59Union Station, Little Rock, AR10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2061One-way1 transfer
- 422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner11:44 PM20h16Union Station, Little Rock, AR8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2261One-way1 transfer
- 422 Texas Eagle11:44 PM14h05Union Station, Little Rock, AR1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2401One-way0 transfers
- 22 Texas Eagle11:44 PM14h05Union Station, Little Rock, AR1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2001One-way0 transfers
- 22 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner11:44 PM20h16Union Station, Little Rock, AR8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$1411One-way1 transfer
- 422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner11:44 PM20h16Union Station, Little Rock, AR8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2261One-way1 transfer
- 422 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service11:44 PM22h59Union Station, Little Rock, AR10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$2061One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $75. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $75, and a flight costs an average of $247.
Distance: 551 miles (887 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$164 Average price Cheapest | $371 Average price | $177 Average price | $130 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 16m Average total duration 13h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 0m Average total duration 12h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $164 (€135).
This is compared to other travel options from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL:
A train is $12 (€10) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL costing on average $177 (€145).
A train is $207 (€170) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL costing on average $371 (€305).
The fastest way to travel from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 47m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 30m.
Train takes on average 13h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Little Rock, AR and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL 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 $164 (€135) compared to roughly $130 (€107) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-34.10 (€-28.05). The journey takes 13h 46m versus 9h 18m 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.
Live departures
Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 11:44 PM Union Station, Little Rock, AR | 20h16 | 8:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 22 Texas Eagle | 11:44 PM Union Station, Little Rock, AR | 14h05 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 22 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service | 11:44 PM Union Station, Little Rock, AR | 22h59 | 10:43 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL 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 Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 13h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $75 (€61) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:39, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 551 miles (887 km) distance in 14h 5m.
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 551 miles (887 km) |
Average train duration 13h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€61) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 14h 5m |
First train 1:39 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Little Rock, AR and Chicago, IL from $75 (€61). 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
14h 5m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€61)
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 Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
Traveling by train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Little Rock, AR and Chicago, IL is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. This train service offers comfortable seating and amenities that allow you to relax while enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the Midwest. With multiple departures throughout the week, passengers can easily plan their trip to explore Chicago's vibrant culture or return home after an adventure in Arkansas' capital city.
Train Connection: Little Rock to Chicago
The train connection from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL takes approximately 14 hours and 3 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day between these two cities. Passengers will depart from Union Station in Arkansas and arrive at Union Station in Illinois.
Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Little Rock at 4:39 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the vibrant city of Chicago. The last departure is scheduled for 5:39 AM, allowing passengers a convenient option to begin their adventure in the Windy City.
Train Tickets Price for Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Little Rock to Chicago is $134 (121.0€). The average ticket price tends to be around $164 (147.6€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in the U.S.
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 must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as part of an urban revitalization project aimed at enhancing public spaces within downtown Chicago. The park is significant for its stunning art installations like Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate—affectionately nicknamed "The Bean"—and serves as a vibrant cultural hub hosting concerts and events throughout the year. With beautifully landscaped gardens and interactive features such as Crown Fountain, Millennium Park invites visitors to relax while immersing themselves in art and nature.
Finally, let’s stroll over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront treasure that opened in 1916 originally designed as a shipping facility before transforming into one of Chicago's top tourist attractions. Spanning over three thousand feet along Lake Michigan with amusement rides like The Centennial Wheel offering panoramic city views; it's perfect for family fun or romantic outings alike! Don’t miss exploring its diverse dining options and unique shops that capture both local flavor and culture during your visit here at Navy Pier.
FAQs: Trains from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Little Rock, AR 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.
Train ticket prices from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $75 (€61), while the average price is around $164 (€135).
The train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL takes 14h 5m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:39 AM.
The distance by train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL is 551 miles (887 km).
The last train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Little Rock, AR that goes to Chicago, IL is Union Station, Little Rock, AR, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $75 (€61).
The train journey from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL offers scenic views of the Mississippi River, lush forests, and charming small towns, particularly as the route traverses through the natural landscapes of Arkansas and Southern Illinois.
A day trip from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 14h 5m. The distance is 551 miles (887 km), and there are 4 train trips 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 Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Little Rock, AR nor Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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.
Most popular train connections from Little Rock, AR
More options for your journey from Little Rock, AR to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Little Rock, AR
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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