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Trip Summary
4 trains operate daily from Dover to Chicago. The train trip from Dover to Chicago is usually about 27 hours and 30 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 26 hours and 15 minutes.
| Distance | 856 mi (1378 km) |
| Fastest train | 26h 15m |
| Lowest price | $207.05 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Dover to Chicago?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Dover to Chicago. However, there are 4 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 1d 3h 30m | $207.05 |
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 4 Amtrak trains from Dover to Chicago every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $197.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Dover and Chicago is approximately 856 miles, or 1378 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 27 hours and 30 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 26 hours and 15 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 Dover to Chicago are the most crowded on Friday. 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Dover at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00am. 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. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Dover.
City Information
Dover
Image credit: Kimberly Vardeman
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Kimberly Vardeman
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Kimberly Vardeman
Link to image attributionAs the 4th-largest city in New Hampshire, Dover is rich in cultural heritage and abundant in lovely attractions! One of the top attractions in the city is the Children's Museum of New Hampshire, where children will actually enjoy learning their history! Another museum worth exploring is the Woodman Institute Museum, which showcases local history and culture. If you simply wish to stroll around a scenic park, check out the Raymond & Simone Savage Wildlife Preserve, which boasts remarkable wildlife.
Dover offers a wide variety of dining experiences, with options for every palate. For incredible dishes that are available at very affordable prices, check out Christopher's Third Street Grille. If you wish to try Italian food with a twist, Patty B's, a local favorite, is the best choice around.
Amtrak trains and C&J buses offer service directly into Dover. The nearest airports are Portsmouth International Airport and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.
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 Dover?
Main departure station: 33 Chestnut St
The Dover Transportation Center at 33 Chestnut St is a stop on Amtrak's Downeaster route between Brunswick, Maine, and Boston. Local transit buses also stop at this station, so you can easily travel within Dover after arriving by train. The train station has spacious parking and disabled access. The Dover Transportation Center leases out the first floor to Bubby's Bagel & Deli, which opens daily. The station has plenty of seats for passengers waiting for the train, and the small building is clean and well-maintained.
All train stations in Dover:
33 Chestnut St
Where is the train station in Chicago?
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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