- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$88
Fastest journey
5 h 39 m
Average duration
5 h 54 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
378 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Royal Oak, MI 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 Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Of the 3 trains that leave Royal Oak, MI for Chicago, IL on Mon, Jun 22, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 5 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 39 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 6 h 2 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.
355 Wolverine
353 Wolverine
351 Wolverine
351 Wolverine
353 Wolverine
355 WolverineOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a flight costs an average of $64.
Distance: 234 miles (378 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$65 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $329 Average price | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 58m Average total duration Fastest 3h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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 Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $10 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $65 (€53).
A bus is $275 (€225) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $329 (€270).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 44m.
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
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 Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
355 Wolverine | 4:48 PM Royal Oak Station, Royal Oak, MI | 6h02 | 9:50 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:26, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 234 miles (378 km) distance in 5h 29m.
Distance 234 miles (378 km) |
Average train duration 5h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 29m |
First train 4:26 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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 premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
The train connection between Royal Oak, MI and Chicago, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Chicago. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, it's easy to find a schedule that fits your travel plans. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, taking the train offers an enjoyable journey from suburban Michigan into the heart of Illinois' bustling metropolis.
The train connection from Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL takes approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. There are 2 connections per day available on this route, and the trains are direct with no transfers required. Passengers will depart from Royal Oak Station, MI and arrive at Union Station, IL.
The first daily train journey departs from Royal Oak at 09:03 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the vibrant city of Chicago. The last departure is scheduled for 10:48 PM, allowing late-night arrivals into the Windy City.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Royal Oak to Chicago is $39 (35.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $77 (69.3€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in the Midwest.
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 is significant not only for its impressive height but also for its innovative design that has become a symbol of Chicago's architectural prowess. One unique feature you won't want to miss is The Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass boxes extending four feet outside of the building—offering breathtaking views from over a thousand feet above ground.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 and designed as an urban oasis that showcases art and culture right in downtown Chicago. Its significance lies in how it transformed what was once an industrial area into a vibrant public space that attracts millions each year with events like concerts and festivals. Be sure to check out Cloud Gate—affectionately nicknamed "The Bean"—a stunning stainless steel sculpture reflecting both city life and skyline while providing perfect photo opportunities.
Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier, originally opened in 1916 as a shipping facility before evolving into one of Chicago’s top tourist destinations today. Its historical importance stems from its role during World War I when it served as a naval training center; now it's celebrated for entertainment options ranging from rides to theaters along Lake Michigan's shoreline. Don’t forget to take a ride on The Centennial Wheel—a towering Ferris wheel offering spectacular panoramic views of both lakefront beauty and cityscape!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Royal Oak, MI 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 Royal Oak, MI to Chicago, IL trains use the Royal Oak Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Royal Oak, MI and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Royal Oak Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, and Accessibility.
Food and drink options are available at Royal Oak Station.
ATMs are available at Royal Oak Station.
Accessibility facilities are available at Royal Oak Station.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need