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Trip Summary
There are 2 daily trains from Rensselaer to Chicago. Traveling by train from Rensselaer to Chicago usually takes around 22 hours and 3 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 16 hours and 7 minutes.
| Distance | 711 mi (1145 km) |
| Fastest train | 16h 7m |
| Lowest price | $131.13 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Rensselaer to Chicago?
The average price for a train ticket from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL is $197.83, Tickets are generally pricier for this train route, which is to be expected given the long distance. By booking your trip at least 23 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 $153.66 more.
Average prices by travel date
The average cost of a one-way train trip from Rensselaer to Chicago is expected to fluctuate between $181 and $331 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Rensselaer is $186.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 23 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Chicago from Rensselaer will be about C$153.66 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Rensselaer to Chicago?
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Rensselaer to Chicago. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 22h 3m | $244.04 |
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 South Station in Rensselaer and arrives at Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago. The route takes about 22 hours and 3 minutes and ticket prices start at $113.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Rensselaer and Chicago is approximately 711 miles, or 1145 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 22 hours and 3 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 16 hours and 7 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 Rensselaer 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Rensselaer at 12:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00pm. 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 Rensselaer 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 Rensselaer.
City Information
Rensselaer
Rensselaer is a small town located just across the Hudson River from the New York State capital, Albany. The Amtrak train station that serves Albany is actually located within Rensselaer, so many commuters and vacationers alike will pass through the city when traveling in the Hudson River Valley.
Rensselaer itself boasts a rich industrial tradition, and it was known as a major railway hub in the 19th century. One of the appealing local attractions in town is the Crailo State Historic Site. The site is a manor house, built in 1707, that today serves as a museum dedicated to the culture of Dutch colonists in New York State. More museums, activities, parks, and sights are waiting just across the river in Albany for the curious traveler.
The city of Rensselaer is an important transportation hub for Amtrak trains throughout the region, which include the Amtrak Empire Service, Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Ethan Allen Express. Between these services, Amtrak connects Rensselaer to New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and beyond. The nearest airport to the city is the Albany International 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 Rensselaer?
Main departure station: Back Bay Station - 145 Dartmouth St
Because some trains make multiple stops before leaving the city, there are 7 stops and stations in Rensselaer where you can board the train.
All train stations in Rensselaer:
Back Bay Station - 145 Dartmouth St
South Station
Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
Union Station Transportation Center
Union Station
417 Waverly St
Scelsi Transp Ctr - 1 Columbus Ave
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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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