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The cheapest and fastest trains from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Nov 27
Cheapest price
$320
Average price
$408
Fastest journey
21 h 3 m
Average duration
21 h 55 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
1069 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL will cost around $408 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $320.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian12:42PM21h03
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA08:45AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3201One-way
1 transfer
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:42PM22h30
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3221One-way
2 transfers
195 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian12:29PM21h16
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA08:45AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3571One-way
1 transfer
88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited01:20PM21h52
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4341One-way
1 transfer
82 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:18PM22h54
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4661One-way
1 transfer
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian12:42PM21h03
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA08:45AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3201One-way
1 transfer
195 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian12:29PM21h16
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA08:45AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3571One-way
1 transfer
88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited01:20PM21h52
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4341One-way
1 transfer
43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:42PM22h30
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3221One-way
2 transfers
82 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:18PM22h54
30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4661One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA 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 3h 33m. 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 €83, and a flight costs an average of €62.
Distance: 664 miles (1069 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€182 Average price | €188 Average price | €124 Average price Cheapest |
22h 46m Average total duration 22h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 33m Average total duration Fastest 3h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 35m Average total duration 20h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.2 - 6.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.7kg 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
Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:17 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 2205 Acela+40 Floridian | 3:13 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 23h32 | 2:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 118 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 5:00 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 23h12 | 4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| 82 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 5:18 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 22h54 | 4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 195 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian | 5:29 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 21h16 | 2:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian | 5:42 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 21h03 | 2:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 5:42 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 22h30 | 4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 6:20 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 21h52 | 4:12 PM 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 prices and tickets Philadelphia, PA 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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Why should you book Philadelphia to Chicago trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak Acela offer trains services from Philadelphia to Chicago. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Philadelphia to Chicago.
Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amtrak Acela to find the best option for your trip from Philadelphia to Chicago.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Philadelphia to Chicago.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Amtrak tickets can be bought on Amtrak's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Amtrak Acela to help you choose the right option for your journey from Philadelphia to Chicago.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Philadelphia to Chicago.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 22h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $141 (€115) but you can travel from only $77 (€62) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 664 miles (1069 km) distance in 21h 3m.
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 $77 (€62)
Distance 664 miles (1069 km) |
Average train duration 22h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $141 (€115) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 21h 3m |
First train 08:15 |
Last train 21:30 |
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 $77 (€62)
Train companies: Amtrak, Amtrak Acela from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak, Amtrak Acela trains will get you between Philadelphia, PA and Chicago, IL from $77 (€62). 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 3m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€132)
Amtrak frequency
1 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
Amtrak Acela
About
Amtrak Acela is the flagship high-speed train service operated by Amtrak, the national rail operator of the United States. Running along the Northeast Corridor, Acela connects major cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, Providence, and Boston. It is the fastest train service in the U.S., reaching speeds of up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose between Business Class and First Class. Both offer seat reservations, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, adjustable lighting, conference tables, and large tray tables, with spacious seating and extra legroom. Business Class includes complimentary snacks and beverages, while First Class offers larger seats, complimentary meals, and access to premium lounges. Food and drinks are also available for purchase at Café Acela. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–New York City, New York City–Boston, and Philadelphia–Washington, D.C.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18h 31m
Cheapest Price
$678 (€550)
Amtrak Acela frequency
1 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
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
Coach Class: Not included, can be purchased. Business/First Class: Included
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
FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA 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.
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.
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.
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Appalachian Mountains, rolling farmlands, and the industrial landscapes of the Midwest. While not typically highlighted as a scenic route, it provides a diverse cross-section of the eastern United States' landscape.
A day trip from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 21h 3m. Additionally, there are 4 train trips per day, covering a distance of 664 miles (1069 km).
Train ticket prices from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $141 (€115), while the average price is around $224 (€182).
The distance by train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is 664 miles (1069 km).
The train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL takes 21h 3m and runs 4 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $77 (€62).
The train station in Philadelphia, PA that goes to Chicago, IL is 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The last train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.
The first train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 8:15 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Philadelphia
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Philadelphia is 30th Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at 30th Street Station for your trip from Philadelphia to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:15 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via 30th Street and Market Street.
Dining
- Bridgewater's Pub
- The Porch at 30th Street Station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel
- Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
- The Study at University City
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Main Hall: entrance, ticketing, and waiting area
- Upper Level: Amtrak platforms
- Lower Level: SEPTA Regional Rail platforms
Public transit options for 30th Street Station
- SEPTA: Market-Frankford Line
- Trolley: Routes 10, 11, 13, 34, 36
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Chicago from Philadelphia.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
24Wifi
- Free
Parking
- 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.
Dining
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Philadelphia, PA
More options for your journey from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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