Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Traverse City

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Trip Summary

There is one daily train from Chicago to Traverse City. Travelling by train from Chicago to Traverse City usually takes 11 hours and 5 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.

Distance: 223 mi (360 km)
Fastest train: 11h 5m
Lowest price: CHF 53.45
Trains per day: 1
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 1

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Chicago to Traverse City Train Schedule

No preview is currently available. Please try another date or search the full schedule.

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Traverse City (Based on 1 rating and review)

4.0

Dakota

December 5, 2025 - Solo travel

Amtrak

Pros: the staff were very nice and helpful Cons: having more information about where you are going

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Traverse City:

Amtrak tickets: CHF 53 one-way

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Traverse City?

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Traverse City cost about CHF 53 when booked at the cheapest time. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 12 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 48.44 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Traverse City by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Traverse City will cost between CHF 53 and CHF 102. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Traverse City by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Traverse City often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only CHF 62. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Traverse City during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 75 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Traverse City on Wanderu at least 12 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 48.44 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Traverse City?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Traverse City. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	11h 5m	CHF 71.24

Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Traverse City every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 53.45.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Traverse City

While the train is the main method of transportation from Chicago to Traverse City, it will only take you part of the way there. Please note that part of your trip will be on a different vehicle, most commonly a bus or express shuttle.

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Traverse City to Chicago.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Traverse City is approximately 360 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 5 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

223

Distance (km)

360

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 6:45 a.m. and arrives in Traverse City around 11 hours later.

First train

6:45am

Last train

6:45am

Trains from Chicago to Traverse City are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Monday

Least crowded

Wednesday

City Information

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main departure station: Union Station

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

Union Station

Where is the train station in Traverse City?

Main arrival station: BATA Hall Street Transfer Station

Traverse City has one train station.

All train stations in Traverse City:

BATA Hall Street Transfer Station

Need a return trip from Traverse City to Chicago?

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