Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Lawrence
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Lawrence. Travelling by train from Chicago to Lawrence usually takes 12 hours and 9 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 9 hours and 15 minutes.
- Distance
- 447 mi (720 km)
- Fastest train
- 9h 15m
- Lowest price
- US$75.00
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Lawrence Train Timetable
Is it better to travel by coach or train from Chicago to Lawrence?
There are usually 9 daily coach trips from Chicago to Lawrence.
Train | Coach | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceUS$137.16 | Avg. PriceUS$121.60Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips9 |
Duration | Duration12h 9mFaster | Duration19h 43m |

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Lawrence:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Lawrence?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Lawrence cost about US$99 when booked at the cheapest time. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 25 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$115.90 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Lawrence by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Lawrence will cost between US$86 and US$303. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Lawrence by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Lawrence 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 US$105. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Lawrence during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$157 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Lawrence on Wanderu at least 25 days ahead of time, you can save about US$115.90 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Lawrence?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Lawrence. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 15h 5m | US$121.90 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 9h 15m | US$152.19 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railway 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 toilet, free WiFi and power sockets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Lawrence every day, as well as 1 trip at the weekends, with prices starting from US$83.










The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to Lawrence in about 9 hours and 15 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Lawrence
Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Lawrence faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Lawrence to Chicago. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the coach from Chicago to Lawrence for US$82.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Lawrence is approximately 447 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 9 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 9 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 patchy signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and films to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Distance (mi)
447
Distance (km)
720
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40 while the last train of the day leaves at 13:30. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full timetable for your specific travel dates.
First train
7:40am
Last train
1:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Lawrence are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 travelling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Wednesday
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 holiday 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 neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transport 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 coach and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Lawrence

Lawrence is the sixth largest city in Kansas and is home to the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University. The city is home to different museums for historical exhibits, art objects from around the world, and hands-on exhibits. Some top museums include the KU Natural History Museum and Watkins Museum of History. Young creatives and students in the city enjoy visits to the Lawrence Arts Center and the Spencer Museum of Art. On the south of Lawrence, nature lovers can go birdwatching on Baker Wetlands, home to hundreds of bird species. Hikers and outdoor lovers can check out the trail in Clinton State Park or go fishing at Clinton Lake.
As a university city popular among students and young professionals, Lawrence boasts a vibrant downtown area with exciting entertainment, shopping, and dining districts. Massachusetts Street has been named one of the most beautiful main streets in the US, where you can find pubs, coffee shops, and shopping centres.
If you're visiting Lawrence, you can do so by train with Amtrak and Amtrak Southwest Chief train services. Book with Greyhound or Jefferson Lines for intercity coach service. The Lawrence Transit system provides public transport across the city for students, locals, and visitors.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station


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 coach 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:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Lawrence?
Main arrival station: 413 E 7th St
Lawrence has one train station.
Train stations in Lawrence:
- 413 E 7th St
Need a return trip from Lawrence to Chicago?
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