Washington, DC to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sat, Jan 10
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jan 12

Cheapest price

$166

Average price

$295

Fastest journey

17 h 48 m

Average duration

1 d 46 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

956 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL will cost around $295 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $166.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Washington, DC for Chicago, IL on Mon, Jan 12, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jan 12 the direct trains cover the 956 km distance in an average of 1 d 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 h 48 m .

On Mon, Jan 12 the slowest trains will take 1 d 7 h 52 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.

Amtrak40 Floridian
03:57PM17h48
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
08:45AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$1661One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
03:20AM31h52
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3361One-way
2 transfers
Amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited
10:35AM24h37
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10:12AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3821One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €49, and a flight costs an average of €78.

Distance: 594 miles (956 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€153

Average price

€240

Average price

€93

Average price

Cheapest

19h 32m

Average total duration

19h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 34m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

19h 36m

Average total duration

19h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.3 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.9 - 5.7kg

CO2 emissions

1.0 - 2.4kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Greyhound

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

Washington, DC to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Chicago, IL trains for today, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:52 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:53 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
27h19
4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited3:20 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
24h52
4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak51 Cardinal3:59 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
24h01
4:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited4:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
23h47
4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak40 Floridian8:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
17h48
2:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC 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 Washington to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Washington to Chicago. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • 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 Washington to Chicago.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington to Chicago.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Washington, DC to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 19h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) but you can travel from only $61 (€49) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 594 miles (956 km) distance in 17h 40m.

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 $61 (€49)
Distance
594 miles (956 km)
Average train duration
19h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$80 (€65)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
17h 40m
First train
03:20
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
Bus from $61 (€49)

Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Chicago, IL from $61 (€49). 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
17h 40m
Cheapest Price
$137 (€110)
Amtrak frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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
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.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is 594 miles (956 km).
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.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 17h 40m. However, there are 3 trips per day by train.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL offers scenic views, particularly through the rolling hills and lush landscapes of the Appalachian region, the picturesque Ohio River, and the expansive plains of the Midwest.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $80 (€65), while the average price is around $190 (€153).
There is no high speed train available from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $61 (€49).
Yes, there is a direct train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL takes 17h 40m and runs 3 per day.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Chicago, IL is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
The first train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL

Washington
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Washington to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
  • Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
Dining
  • Shake Shack
  • McDonald’s
  • Starbucks
  • Potbelly Sandwich Shop
  • Chopt Creative Salad Co.
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill
  • Thunder Grill
  • Johnny Rockets
  • Jamba Juice
  • Ladurée Union Station
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
  • Phoenix Park Hotel
  • Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
  • Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Metro lines: Red
  • Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
  • Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Washington, DC

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, ILWashington, DC to Chicago, IL train

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