- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
Cheapest price
$288
Average price
$370
Fastest journey
19 h 32 m
Average duration
22 h 13 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
1146 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New York, NY 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 York, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $370 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $288.
Of the 5 trains that leave New York, NY for Chicago, IL on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 1146 km distance in an average of 22 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 32 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 23 h 10 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.
49 Lake Shore Limited
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen Acela
49 Lake Shore Limited
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen Acela
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian
95 Northeast Regional · 40 FloridianOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New York, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $99. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, and a train costs an average of $155.
Distance: 712 miles (1146 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$321 Average price | $204 Average price | $194 Average price Cheapest | $208 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 17m Average total duration 11h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration Fastest 5h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 57m Average total duration 20h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.4 - 6.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from New York, NY to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $10 (€8) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from New York, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $204 (€165).
A bus is $127 (€103) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from New York, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $321 (€260).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 47m.
Bus takes on average 20h 27m.
Tickets start at around $321 (€260) compared to roughly $208 (€169) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-112.66 (€-91.20). The journey takes 11h 47m versus 11h 43m 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.
The table below shows live departures for New York, NY to Chicago, IL trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 10:35 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 23h10 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian | 10:52 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 22h53 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
2155 NextGen Acela+ 40 Floridian | 11:00 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 22h45 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 11:02 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 22h43 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
49 Lake Shore Limited | 3:40 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 19h32 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from New York, NY to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 11h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $155 (€126) but you can travel from only $54 (€43) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:59, the last at 22:16. The fastest train covers the 712 miles (1146 km) distance in 19h 32m.
Distance 712 miles (1146 km) |
Average train duration 11h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $155 (€126) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 19h 32m |
First train 5:59 AM |
Last train 10:16 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 70 days |
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
Major natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and large family-friendly science exhibits.
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park with a U-505 submarine, aviation exhibits, and immersive interactive displays.
Chicago’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate and major events, with strong appeal for first-time visitors and photographers.
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River, popular for architecture views, strolling, and social-media-friendly city scenes.
Famous stretch of North Michigan Avenue known for landmark architecture, flagship stores, and busy big-city energy.
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce.
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt.
A classic Chicago sandwich of thin-sliced seasoned beef served on a roll, often dipped in jus and topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers.
A well-known Magnificent Mile restaurant serving Mediterranean-influenced small plates, charcuterie, and strong wine selections.
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for inventive tasting menus and a polished, theatrical experience.
A legendary Chicago pizzeria best known for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Hotels can be pricey downtown, but food and transit offer good value.
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
Traveling between New York, NY and Chicago, IL is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and amenities that allow you to relax while enjoying the picturesque views of the American landscape. With multiple departures daily, passengers can easily find a schedule that suits their travel plans. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this route provides an efficient way to experience two iconic cities in one trip!
The train connection from New York, NY to Chicago, IL takes approximately 19 hours and 32 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day, departing from Penn Station, NY and arriving at Union Station, IL.
The first daily train journey departs from New York at 10:45 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the Windy City. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 7:40 PM, allowing those who wish to travel later in the evening a convenient option.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between New York and Chicago is $188 (169.2€). The average ticket price tends to be around $245 (220.5€), making it a good option to book in advance or look out for deals if you're planning your journey.
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 central part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for visitors seeking a unique perspective on this vibrant city.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a stunning urban oasis that showcases art and culture at every turn. The park features remarkable installations like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—which reflects both our beautiful skyline and your smiling face! With its lush gardens, outdoor concerts at Pritzker Pavilion, and interactive fountains by Jaume Plensa, Millennium Park serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy nature amidst bustling downtown Chicago.
Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination originally opened in 1916 that stretches along Lake Michigan with endless entertainment options. Home to attractions such as rides at Pier Park or cultural experiences like live theater performances at Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Navy Pier truly embodies fun for all ages! Don’t forget to take a stroll down its picturesque promenade while soaking up stunning lakefront views—it’s no wonder this beloved pier draws millions of visitors each year looking for adventure right here in our great city!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New York, NY 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.

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