- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from State College, PA to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- €159
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- €159
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 19 h 39 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 19 h 39 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 1
- Distance
- 825 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from State College, 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 State College, PA to Chicago, IL will cost around €159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €159.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 trains from State College, PA to Chicago, IL, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 825 km distance in an average of 19 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 39 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 19 h 39 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.
9:51 PM 19h39 State College, PA 5:30 PM Chicago, IL €159 1 One-way 0 transfers
9:51 PM 19h39 State College, PA 5:30 PM Chicago, IL €159 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Take a train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL and enjoy the approximately 512 miles (825 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 13:25, the last at 18:40.
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
Bus from €45
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance512 miles (825 km)
- First train1:25 PM
- Last train6:40 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Best time to book63 days
Explore this journey
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
Bus from €45
Frequently asked questions about your State College, PA to Chicago, IL trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from State College, PA to Chicago, IL.
The distance by train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL is 512 miles (825 km).
The first train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:25 PM.
The last train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:40 PM.
Live departures
State College, PA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for State College, PA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 PM State College, PA | 20h20 | 2:45 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
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.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
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 Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Plan your visit to Chicago, IL
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Chicago, IL.
The train journey from State College, PA to Chicago, IL offers scenic views primarily in the early segments, showcasing the rolling hills of Pennsylvania and parts of the Appalachian Mountains. As the train approaches urban areas, the scenery shifts to more industrial and suburban landscapes.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
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.
FAQs: Trains from State College, PA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from State College, 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.
No, you cannot take the train from State College, PA to Chicago, IL.
Most popular train connections from State College, PA
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and State College, PA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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