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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Rensselaer
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Rensselaer. Travelling by train from Chicago to Rensselaer usually takes 17 hours and 29 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 16 hours and 23 minutes.
- Distance
- 711 mi (1145 km)
- Fastest train
- 16h 23m
- Lowest price
- £78.02
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Rensselaer Train Timetable
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Average score for trains from Chicago to Rensselaer (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Rensselaer:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Rensselaer?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Rensselaer cost about £108 when booked at the cheapest time. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 16 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around £91.94 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Rensselaer by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Rensselaer will cost between £77 and £1,217. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Rensselaer by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Rensselaer often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only £93. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Rensselaer during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of £167 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Rensselaer on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time, you can save about £91.94 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Rensselaer?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Rensselaer. 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 | 1 | 19h 36m | £127.22 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 16h 27m | £137.28 |
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 Rensselaer every day, as well as 1 trip at the weekends, with prices starting from £75.79.
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 Union Station in Chicago and arrives at Albany-Rensselaer Train Station in Rensselaer. The route takes about 16 hours and 27 minutes and ticket prices start at £78.02.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Rensselaer
There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. Of these, 2 are direct connections to Rensselaer. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Rensselaer to Chicago.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
2
The distance between Chicago and Rensselaer is approximately 711 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 17 hours and 29 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 16 hours and 23 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)
711
Distance (km)
1145
The earliest train departs Chicago at 20:30 while the last train of the day leaves at 21:30. 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
8:30pm
Last train
9:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Rensselaer 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Thursday
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.
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 travelling 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 traveller.
The city of Rensselaer is an important transport 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.
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 Rensselaer?
Main arrival station: Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
Rensselaer has one train station.
Train stations in Rensselaer:
- Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
Need a return trip from Rensselaer to Chicago?
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