- 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 New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 02
Cheapest price
$228
Average price
$357
Fastest journey
21 h 1 m
Average duration
22 h 29 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
1114 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New Brunswick, NJ 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 New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL will cost around $357 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $228.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave New Brunswick, NJ for Chicago, IL on Thu, Jul 02, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 02 the direct trains cover the 1114 km distance in an average of 22 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 21 h 1 m .
On Thu, Jul 02 the slowest trains will take 1 d 47 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.
7:11 PM21h01New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$2281One-way0 transfers- 4:43 PM24h47New Brunswick, NJ5:30 PMChicago, IL$2901One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 PM21h47New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$2951One-way0 transfers
- 6:01 PM22h11New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$3901One-way0 transfers
- 3:07 PM22h38New Brunswick, NJ1:45 PMChicago, IL$5801One-way0 transfers
- 7:11 PM21h01New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$2281One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 PM21h47New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$2951One-way0 transfers
- 6:01 PM22h11New Brunswick, NJ4:12 PMChicago, IL$3901One-way0 transfers
- 3:07 PM22h38New Brunswick, NJ1:45 PMChicago, IL$5801One-way0 transfers
- 4:43 PM24h47New Brunswick, NJ5:30 PMChicago, IL$2901One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $127.
Distance: 692 miles (1114 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$294 Average price | $189 Average price | $120 Average price Cheapest | $199 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
20h 37m Average total duration 20h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 24h 50m Average total duration 24h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $120 (€99).
This is compared to other travel options from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $68 (€56) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL costing on average $189 (€156).
A flight is $174 (€143) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL costing on average $294 (€242).
The fastest way to travel from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 37m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 20h 7m.
Bus takes on average 24h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between New Brunswick, NJ 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 New Brunswick, NJ 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 $294 (€242) compared to roughly $199 (€164) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-94.95 (€-78.30). The journey takes 20h 7m versus 12h 3m 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
New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL trains for today, Wednesday, July 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:43 PM New Brunswick, NJ | 22h02 | 2:45 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:25 PM New Brunswick, NJ | 21h47 | 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 New Brunswick, NJ 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 New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 20h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $127 (€104) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:33, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 692 miles (1114 km) distance in 21h 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
Flight from $31 (€26)
Distance 692 miles (1114 km) |
Average train duration 20h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $127 (€104) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 21h 1m |
First train 6:33 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Flight from $31 (€26)
Train companies: Amtrak, NJ Transit from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak, NJ Transit trains will get you between New Brunswick, NJ and Chicago, IL from $31 (€26). 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
21h 1m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€104)
Amtrak frequency
3 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
NJ Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19h 45m
Cheapest Price
$378 (€312)
NJ Transit frequency
1 a day
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.
FAQs: Trains from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New Brunswick, NJ 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 New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $127 (€104), while the average price is around $294 (€242).
The train from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL takes 21h 1m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:33 AM.
The distance by train from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL is 692 miles (1114 km).
The last train from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL.
The train station in New Brunswick, NJ that goes to Chicago, IL is Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $31 (€26).
The train journey from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery as it passes through industrial areas, small towns, and stretches of countryside, but it may not be considered particularly scenic compared to more renowned routes.
A day trip from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 21h 1m. The distance covered is 692 miles (1114 km). There are 2 trips per day available by train.
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 New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL.
Since neither New Brunswick, NJ 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 New Brunswick, NJ 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
Most New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL trains use the Metropark Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare New Brunswick, NJ and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in New Brunswick
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which New Brunswick, NJ station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL leave from Metropark Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from New Brunswick, NJ city centre at 100 Middlesex Essex Tpke, Iselin, NJ 08830, USA.
New Brunswick Station25 French Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA+1 973-275-5555
City-centre transport
Getting to New Brunswick Station from New Brunswick city centre
New Brunswick Station is 1 km from New Brunswick city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus814 · 5m · $2 · every ~3 min
New Brunswick Station train station facilities and services
New Brunswick Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Old Man Rafferty's, The Frog and The Peach
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at New Brunswick Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at New Brunswick Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at New Brunswick Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at New Brunswick Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at New Brunswick Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Heldrich Hotel, Hyatt Regency New Brunswick, Rutgers University Inn.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from New Brunswick, NJ arrive at?
Trains from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
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 New Brunswick, NJ
More options for your journey from New Brunswick, NJ to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and New Brunswick, NJ
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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