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Detroit Lakes to Chicago train

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Detroit Lakes - Chicago Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

2 trains operate daily from Detroit Lakes to Chicago. The train trip from Detroit Lakes to Chicago is usually about 12 hours and 18 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.

Distance530 mi (853 km)
Fastest train12h 18m
Lowest price$92.33
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Empire Builder
Train lines1

What is the price of a train ticket from Detroit Lakes to Chicago?

The average price for a train ticket from Detroit Lakes to Chicago is $92.33, By booking your trip at least 15 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $161.58 more.

Monthly average prices

$272$217$163$109$54AMJJASONDJFM
You can find the lowest prices on this route during February. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Detroit Lakes to Chicago, with the average price at just $133. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in July, when the average price goes up to $244. 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

$204$163$122$81$413020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Detroit Lakes to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 15 days in advance. That way, you’ll save $161.58 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Detroit Lakes to Chicago?

Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Detroit Lakes to Chicago. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Empire Builder212h 18m$147.93
  • 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

The distance between Detroit Lakes and Chicago is approximately 530 miles, or 853 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 18 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 from Detroit Lakes to Chicago are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 traveling on Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

The earliest train departs Detroit Lakes at 4:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00am. 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 Detroit Lakes twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago 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 Chicago to Detroit Lakes.

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 Detroit Lakes?

Main departure station: White Earth Transit Station

There is one train station in Detroit Lakes.

All train stations in Detroit Lakes:

  • White Earth Transit Station

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

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Main arrival 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.

Train stations in Chicago:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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