5.0
Pros: It was great experience indeed. Cons: Fooding and pantry system is to be improved . There was no wifi system found. Tips: You must enjoy with Amtrak.
Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Grand Forks
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Trip Summary
4 trains operate daily from Chicago to Grand Forks. The train trip from Chicago to Grand Forks is usually about 16 hours and 28 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can get you there in as little as 14 hours and 29 minutes.
| Distance | 621 mi (999 km) |
| Fastest train | 14h 29m |
| Lowest price | $98.46 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Grand Forks
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.5
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Grand Forks?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Grand Forks was $186.09. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 18 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $58.76 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Grand Forks by travel date
For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Grand Forks will range from $146 to $404. If you're planning to travel by train to Grand Forks in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Chicago you can find in the next 7 days is $146. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.
Monthly avg. prices
You can find the lowest prices on this route during May. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Chicago to Grand Forks, with the average price at just $127. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in June, when the average price goes up to $264. You can still score cheap deals below this average price, though, especially if you plan ahead and book your ticket in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Grand Forks on Wanderu at least 18 days ahead of time, you can save about $58.76 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Grand Forks?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Grand Forks. Amtrak Empire Builder usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 18h 29m | $233.44 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 14h 29m | $205.84 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, 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 are 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Grand Forks every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $113.
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Grand Forks
The distance between Chicago and Grand Forks is approximately 621 miles, or 999 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 16 hours and 28 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 14 hours and 29 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.
Trains departing from Chicago to Grand Forks tend to have the most passengers on Thursday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Thursday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 11:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Grand Forks. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Grand Forks to Chicago.
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 neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, 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?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Where is the train station in Grand Forks?
Main arrival station: 5555 DeMers Ave
Grand Forks has one train station.
Train stations in Grand Forks:
5555 DeMers Ave
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