- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price on Oct 08
$256
Average ticket price on Oct 08
$979
Fastest journey on Oct 08
21 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
21 h 53 m
Trains on Oct 08
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 $979 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $256.
It's difficult to get from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
2155 Acela [NextGen] · 40 Floridian
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
2155 Acela [NextGen] · 40 FloridianTrains from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL run on average 8 times per day, taking around 20h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $114 (€96) but you can travel from only $32 (€27) 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 18h 42m.
Distance 703 miles (1132 km) |
Average train duration 20h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $114 (€96) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 18h 42m |
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 |
The table below shows live departures for Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 10:53 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 Acela [NextGen] · 40 Floridian | 11:21 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h24 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 11:32 AM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 22h13 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 11:37 AM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 22h08 | 8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:48 PM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 21h24 | 10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 1:54 PM Newark Penn Station, Newark, NJ | 21h18 | 10:12 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
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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