Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL train with NJ Transit

Sat, May 02
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for May 02

Cheapest price

$2356

Average price

$2356

Fastest journey

22 h 42 m

Average duration

22 h 42 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

1100 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Princeton, 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 Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL will cost around $2356 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $2356.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Princeton, NJ for Chicago, IL on Sat, May 02, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, May 02 the direct trains cover the 1100 km distance in an average of 22 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 22 h 42 m .

On Sat, May 02 the slowest trains will take 22 h 42 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.

  • Amtrak
    5:30 PM22h42
    Princeton, NJ
    4:12 PMChicago, IL
    $23561One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $104. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $104, and a train costs an average of $215.

Distance: 683 miles (1100 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$853

Average price

$223

Average price

$199

Average price

Cheapest

24h 38m

Average total duration

24h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

26h 52m

Average total duration

26h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 47m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, May 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian11:29 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
22h16
8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak43 Pennsylvanian · 40 Floridian11:44 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
22h01
8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak119 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian12:00 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
21h45
8:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited1:03 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
22h09
10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited1:12 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
22h00
10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited1:25 PM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ
21h47
10:12 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Princeton, NJ 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.

Sat
May 02
Sun
May 03
Mon
May 04
Tue
May 05
Wed
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 24h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $215 (€172) but you can travel from only $104 (€83) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 06:56, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 683 miles (1100 km) distance in 21h 45m.

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 $104 (€83)
Distance
683 miles (1100 km)
Average train duration
24h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$215 (€172)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
21h 45m
First train
6:56 AM
Last train
9:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
21 days
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 $104 (€83)

Train companies: NJ Transit from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL trainsNJ Transit trains will get you between Princeton, NJ and Chicago, IL from $104 (€83). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

NJ Transit

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19h 56m
Cheapest Price
$271 (€217)
NJ Transit frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Princeton, 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $215 (€172), while the average price is around $853 (€683).
The train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL takes 21h 45m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL is 683 miles (1100 km).
The first train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:56 AM.
The last train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Princeton, NJ that goes to Chicago, IL is Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $104 (€83).
The train journey from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Pennsylvania countryside, small towns, and glimpses of industrial landscapes, providing a diverse visual experience.
A day trip from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 21h 45m. The trip is 683 miles (1100 km) long, with a frequency of 5 trains per day.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Princeton, NJ nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

Princeton
Chicago
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
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
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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

More options for your journey from Princeton, NJ to Chicago, IL

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