- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
$284
Average price
$344
Fastest journey
21 h 18 m
Average duration
21 h 53 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
1132 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Newark, 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 Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL will cost around $344 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $284.
It's difficult to get from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen AcelaOmio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $83, and a train costs an average of $122.
Distance: 703 miles (1132 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$258 Average price | $175 Average price | $123 Average price Cheapest |
21h 48m Average total duration 21h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 45m Average total duration Fastest 2h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 50m Average total duration 18h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $8 (€6) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL costing on average $175 (€141).
A bus is $116 (€93) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL costing on average $283 (€227).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 18h 26m.
Train takes on average 21h 24m.
The table below shows live departures for Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
195 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 11:23 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h22 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
195 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 11:23 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h22 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
118 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:09 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h03 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:22 PM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 21h50 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:25 PM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 21h47 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:28 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 21h44 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:31 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 21h41 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 2:23 PM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 20h49 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 2:29 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 20h43 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
40 Floridian+ 2271 NextGen Acela | 8:11 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 37h34 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
40 Floridian+ 2271 Acela | 8:11 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 37h34 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, August 24 | |||||
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 10:53 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h52 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian | 11:09 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h36 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
2155 NextGen Acela+ 40 Floridian | 11:21 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h24 | 8:45 AM 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 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 Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL run on average 8 times per day, taking around 21h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 (€98) but you can travel from only $59 (€48) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:02, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 703 miles (1132 km) distance in 19h 32m.
Distance 703 miles (1132 km) |
Average train duration 21h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $122 (€98) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 19h 32m |
First train 6:02 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Traveling between Newark, NJ and Chicago, IL is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. With comfortable seating and scenic views along the way, you can enjoy a relaxing ride as you traverse approximately 1,000 miles of diverse landscapes. The train service offers multiple daily departures to accommodate your schedule while providing amenities such as Wi-Fi and dining options on board. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this connection ensures an enjoyable travel experience from the East Coast to the Midwest.
The train journey from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL takes approximately 20 hours and 43 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day between these two cities.
The first daily journey departs from Newark at 11:05 AM and arrives in Chicago at 6:54 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Newark to Chicago is $109 (98.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $185 (166.5€), making it a cost-effective option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.
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 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 vital part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for visitors seeking panoramic vistas.
Next up is Millennium Park, a vibrant urban oasis that opened in 2004 and quickly became one of Chicago's most beloved attractions. The park features stunning art installations like Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate—affectionately nicknamed "The Bean"—and serves as a cultural hub with concerts and events throughout the year. Its unique blend of nature and modern design creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation or exploration amidst some truly remarkable architecture.
Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination that first opened in 1916 as a shipping facility before transforming into an entertainment hotspot. Stretching over six city blocks along Lake Michigan, it boasts thrilling rides like The Centennial Wheel alongside charming gardens and diverse dining options. With its rich history intertwined with recreation and leisure activities today, Navy Pier remains a must-visit spot where you can soak up both local culture and scenic lakefront views.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Newark, 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.

Most Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL trains use the Newark Penn Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Newark, NJ and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Newark Penn 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 options include: Forno's of Spain, Iberia Tavern & Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Newark Penn Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Newark Penn Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Newark Penn Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Newark Penn Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Newark Penn Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Newark Penn Station, Hotel Indigo Newark Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott Newark Downtown.
Newark Airport Amtrak is 4 km from Newark city centre. Public transport options include:
Newark Airport Amtrak has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Newark Airport Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Available at Newark Airport Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Newark Airport Amtrak: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott, Hilton Newark Airport, Renaissance Newark Airport Hotel.
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
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