The cheapest and fastest trains from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$259
Average price
$306
Fastest journey
19 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 55 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
1340 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New Orleans, LA 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 Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL will cost around $306 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $259.
Of the 3 trains that leave New Orleans, LA for Chicago, IL on Sun, Nov 23, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Nov 23 the direct trains cover the 1340 km distance in an average of 1 d 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 30 m .
On Sun, Nov 23 the slowest trains will take 1 d 8 h 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.
58 City Of New Orleans · 392 Illini
58 City Of New Orleans · 390 Saluki
58 City Of New Orleans
58 City Of New Orleans
58 City Of New Orleans · 390 Saluki
58 City Of New Orleans · 392 IlliniTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €90. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €90, and a flight costs an average of €54.
Distance: 832 miles (1340 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€176 Average price | €199 Average price | €143 Average price Cheapest |
20h 44m Average total duration 20h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 43m Average total duration 24h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.0 - 8.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Saturday, November 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
58 City Of New Orleans · 392 Illini | 7:45 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 32h00 | 3:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
58 City Of New Orleans | 7:45 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 19h30 | 3:15 PM Chicago Union Station, 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 Orleans, LA 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL?
Journey information
Overview: Train from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
Trains from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 20h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 (€99) but you can travel from only $66 (€54) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 832 miles (1340 km) distance in 19h 30m.
Distance 832 miles (1340 km) |
Average train duration 20h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $122 (€99) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 19h 30m |
First train 08:15 |
Last train 21:05 |
Train companies: Amtrak from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between New Orleans, LA and Chicago, IL from $66 (€54). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
Traveling between New Orleans, LA and Chicago, IL is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and stunning views as you traverse the diverse landscapes of the American South to the Midwest. With multiple departures throughout the week, passengers can enjoy an efficient travel experience while relaxing on board. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this connection provides a unique way to explore two cities rich in culture and history.
Train Connection: New Orleans to Chicago
The train connection from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL takes approximately 19 hours and 30 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day. Passengers will depart from Union Passenger Terminal, LA and arrive at Union Station, IL.
New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from New Orleans at 16:45 and arrives in Chicago at 19:45. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the vibrant culture of both cities.
Train Tickets Price for New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from New Orleans to Chicago is $119 (107.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $166 (149.4€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in the United States.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Attractions
Welcome to the Willis Tower, once known as the Sears Tower, which held the title of the tallest building in the world for 25 years after its completion in 1973. This iconic skyscraper is not just a marvel of engineering; it symbolizes Chicago's resilience and innovation, attracting millions who come to experience breathtaking views from its Skydeck. One unique feature that sets this landmark apart is The Ledge—glass boxes extending out over 1,353 feet above ground—offering an exhilarating perspective of both city and sky.
Next on our journey is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant urban space that has transformed downtown Chicago into a cultural hub. It’s significant not only for its stunning architecture but also for hosting numerous events throughout the year—from concerts to art installations—that engage locals and visitors alike. A standout attraction here is Cloud Gate (affectionately known as "The Bean"), whose reflective surface creates mesmerizing visual effects while inviting you to capture unforgettable photos against Chicago's skyline.
Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination opened in 1916 that has evolved into one of Chicago’s most beloved attractions with entertainment options galore. Its significance lies in being a gathering place where families can enjoy rides like the Centennial Wheel or explore various museums while soaking up scenic lakefront views. What makes Navy Pier truly unique are its seasonal festivals and events such as fireworks displays during summer nights that create lasting memories under starry skies!
FAQs: Trains from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, accessible 24/7.
- Cochon Restaurant
- Herbsaint
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
- Le Pavillon Hotel
- Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
- Hall 3: bus and streetcar connections
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: Loyola-UPT Line
- 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 New Orleans, LA
More options for your journey from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL
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