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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells

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Chicago to Wisconsin Dells Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells. Traveling by train from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells usually takes 3 hours and 34 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 3 hours and 28 minutes.

Distance163 mi (262 km)
Fastest train3h 28m
Lowest price$33.43
Trains per day3
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Empire Builder
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells

(Based on 4 ratings and reviews)

5.0

5.0

Nyambayar

December 6, 2022- Business

Amtrak Empire Builder

Pros: Good enough. Enjoy and happiness. Cons: service.

5.0

Lawrence

July 17, 2019- Vacation

Amtrak Empire Builder

Cons: Directions to the terminals, we were sent to the one side of the terminal, but it was for boarding of sleep car passengers only. The side we were supposed to go to was a further distance and then we waited in a long line to go back to the other side of the station where we had left. No clear communication of what car to board, a lot of miscommunication in the heat. No instructions about parking. It would be nice to have a heads up on parking availability and actual boarding information. Tips: Plan to be to Union Station 30-45 minutes early if you're parking.

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells was $51.83. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. 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 $40.95 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells by travel date

$125$84$42OctNov

For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells will range from $39 to $110. If you're planning to travel by train to Wisconsin Dells in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Chicago you can find in the next 7 days is $40. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.

Monthly avg. prices

$104$84$63$42$21DJFMAMJJASON
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only $64. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $103 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

$104$84$63$42$213020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells on Wanderu at least 18 days ahead of time, you can save about $40.95 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells. 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:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak13h 28m$57.94
Amtrak Empire Builder23h 37m$66.24
  • 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 1 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $33.

  • 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 Wisconsin Dells

The distance between Chicago and Wisconsin Dells is approximately 163 miles, or 262 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 34 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 28 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 Wisconsin Dells tend to have the most passengers on Monday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Monday. 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 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, WI, US - WDL-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Wisconsin Dells is a city on the Wisconsin River, where you can see glacier-carved sandstone formations. It made a name for itself as a destination for family-friendly activities, offering multiple theme parks like Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park and Noah's Ark Water Park. Aside from having some of the best and most thrilling water parks in the US, Wisconsin Dells is also popular for its natural scenery. The Mirror Lake State Park, a forested reserve surrounding a lake, is popular for hiking, walking, and camping. There are also spots for history and architecture, like the Seth Peterson Cottage, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Museum of Historic Torture Devices.

Although it's popular as a kid-centric destination, Wisconsin Dells also offers exciting nightlife and fun activities for adults. You can check out the Ho-Chunk Gaming Casino or visit some of their interactive gaming exhibits. The Wilderness Resort and Kalahari Resort in the city have indoor mini-golf courses, and there are spots for outdoor golf open during the summer. Due to the different resorts in the city, you can also enjoy spas, restaurants, antique shops, and more. The city is home to wineries and craft breweries.

You can easily access Wisconsin Dells by train or bus, provided by Amtrak Empire Builder and OurBus, respectively.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

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 Wisconsin Dells?

Main arrival station: 100 LaCrosse St

Wisconsin Dells has one train station.

Train stations in Wisconsin Dells:

  • 100 LaCrosse St

Get around town with Moovit

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Need a return trip from Wisconsin Dells to Chicago?

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