4.0
Pros: Comfy. Cons: If the train were to arrive on time. Tips: None.
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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Waterloo to Cleveland. The train trip from Waterloo to Cleveland is usually about 3 hours and 54 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Capitol Limited train can get you there in as little as 3 hours and 22 minutes.
| Distance | 172 mi (277 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 22m |
| Lowest price | $26.23 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Overall score for trains from Waterloo to Cleveland
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
4.0
Which train should you take from Waterloo to Cleveland?
2 train services operate from Waterloo to Cleveland. Amtrak Lake Shore Limited 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 Capitol Limited | 1 | 3h 22m | $80.51 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 4h 18m | $44.86 |
Passing through seven states, 16 cities, and various National Parks, Amtrak Capitol Limited connects Washington D.C. and Chicago, on 750 miles of railroad. Taking over 17 hours for a complete trip, these trains offer various overnight accommodations and feature panoramic observation cars where passengers can enjoy exceptional scenery. The trains include various options for food; however, WiFi connectivity is not available onboard due to the rural nature of the route.
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from 485 West Van Vleek Street in Waterloo and arrives at 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway in Cleveland. The route takes about 4 hours and 18 minutes and ticket prices start at $26.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Waterloo and Cleveland is approximately 172 miles, or 277 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 54 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 22 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.
Saturday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Waterloo to Cleveland. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Saturday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Sunday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Waterloo at 1:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 10:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Waterloo twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Cleveland with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Cleveland to Waterloo.
City Information
Waterloo
Image credit: Unsplash
Waterloo is a town in Indiana, getting its unique name from the city of the same name in Belgium. Despite being a small town, it offers a wide range of activities for families and sports lovers. You can take golf classes at the Bridgewater Golf Club or go skating with the family at the Skatin' Station. The family-friendly town is home to the Ft Wayne Children's Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. During your visit, some historical markers to check out include the Immaculate Conception Church and St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased in Waterloo, as the town is home to different specialty shops and boutiques. You can also visit when the De Kalb County Fair is in town, offering special events and auctions. The Summer Parade and Festival is an annual highlight in Waterloo, offering delicious food, activities for all ages, and fun presentations.
Waterloo is known as the crossroads of Northeastern Indiana, as it connects several major transportation routes. The travel hub has routes like I-69, US G, and IN 427 and is the only Amtrak passenger train stop in northeast Indiana.
Cleveland
An industrial powerhouse in the past eras, Cleveland offers to the world more than just LeBron James and Halle Berry. Unlike most other big cities, Cleveland still retains its quaint small-town feel, especially as you wander around the Cleveland Metroparks, a system of 21,000 acres of pure nature. For nature lovers, the Cleveland Botanical Garden provides a treasure trove of botanical knowledge and rare plant species. Another must-not-miss spot is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which features exhibitions on the greatest legends such as Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, etc.
For foodies, Cleveland truly is a mecca. The city boasts an array of top chefs and high-class establishments that can bring you an unforgettable experience. For authentic American classics, Sylman’s Deli has everything you need. If you are looking for a more diverse option, head to Momocho for some mouth-watering Mexican indulgences.
Cleveland’s main bus station is located just behind the Playhouse Square Parking Garage in the Theater District. The local Amtrak train station is also located downtown not too far from the bus station. The principal airport in the city is the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which sits 9 miles southwest of Downtown and is located next to the Glenn Research Center.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Waterloo?
Main departure station: 485 West Van Vleek Street
There is one train station in Waterloo.
All train stations in Waterloo:
485 West Van Vleek Street
Where is the train station in Cleveland?
Image credit: Ted Eytan
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway
The Amtrak Station on Cleveland Memorial Shoreway is directly adjacent to the NFL Browns’ FirstEnergy Stadium and the expansive Lake Erie beyond. Pro tip: sit on the North side of the train to catch a glimpse of the lake on your way out of town! This station is a stop for Amtrak’s Capitol Limited line from DC to Chicago and the Lake Shore Limited line from Chicago to New York City or Boston. Cleveland’s local Rapid Transit Waterfront Line also serves this station for service within the city. In the immediate area surrounding the station, you’ll find the Great Lakes Science Center, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, and several hotels and restaurants for convenience during your travels.
Train stations in Cleveland:
200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway
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Need a return trip from Cleveland to Waterloo?
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