Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Syracuse

Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.

Trip Summary

There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to Syracuse. Travelling by train from Chicago to Syracuse usually takes 15 hours and 6 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 12 hours and 58 minutes.

Distance
590 mi (950 km)
Fastest train
12h 58m
Lowest price
US$74.00
Trains per day
4
Most frequent service
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines
2

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

Chiku

Chicago to Syracuse Train Timetable

Is it better to travel by coach or train from Chicago to Syracuse?

There are usually 5 daily coach trips from Chicago to Syracuse.

Train
Coach
Avg. PriceUS$149.63Avg. PriceUS$124.89Cheaper
Daily Trips4Daily Trips5
Duration15h 6mFasterDuration20h 29m
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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Syracuse (Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.3

5.0

Miriam R

20 December 2022 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Pros: The time management. Cons: The bathroom cleaning and general train hygiene. Tips: It looked like some travelers denied other travelers to sit next to them. Not good.

4.0

Roberto

25 November 2022 - Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Pros: Good price/quality ratio Cons: Cleanness in the bathrooms

5.0

Muneesh

14 October 2022 - Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Pros: On time operations Cons: Seats can be more reclining for journeys beyond 6 hours Tips: No

4.0

Beverly

12 July 2022

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Pros: Need to check on the bathrooms more often Tips: Please when using the bathroom be more respectful of others usuing the bathroom. Flush the toilet, close the bathroom door gently Don't Slam the door.

4.0

Victor

23 November 2021 - Couples trip

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Pros: Ease of Travel and Accesibility Cons: Front seats on the train aren't the greatest for sleeping without small desk
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What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Syracuse?

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Syracuse cost about US$122 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 13 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$62.90 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Syracuse by travel date

US$615US$410US$205NovNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Syracuse will cost between US$86 and US$614. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Syracuse by month

US$175US$140US$105US$70US$35JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Syracuse 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 US$107. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Syracuse during May, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$167 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in May, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

US$200US$160US$120US$80US$401020

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Syracuse on Wanderu at least 13 days ahead of time, you can save about US$62.90 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Syracuse?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Syracuse. 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:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak217h 18mUS$143.54
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited213h 1mUS$155.39
  • 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 are 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Syracuse every day, as well as 2 trips at the weekends, with prices starting from US$85.

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  • 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 Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir in Syracuse. The route takes about 13 hours and 1 minute and ticket prices start at US$72.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Syracuse

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Syracuse. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a coach or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. Of these, 2 are direct connections to Syracuse. 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 Syracuse to Chicago. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the coach from Chicago to Syracuse for US$74.

Trains per day

4

Direct trains

2

The distance between Chicago and Syracuse is approximately 590 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 6 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 58 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)

590

Distance (km)

950

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 Syracuse 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Tuesday

City Information

Chicago

CHI-0CHI-1CHI-2

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.

Syracuse

SYR-0SYR-1Syracuse, NY

Syracuse might not be the top destination for tourists in New York, but it does have plenty of quirky and fun destinations for all age groups. Upon your first arrival to the city, don’t miss out on the chance to take a stroll around the historic Armory Square, considered to be the top destination by locals. The square also features plenty of restaurants and nightclubs if you are looking for the quarter with the best nightlife in town. If you want to mingle with a good crowd for some fun, the Carrier Dome, which is located within the campus of Syracuse University, will offer the adrenaline rush you need. For those seeking a more culturally-inclined activity, head towards the Everson Museum of Art and marvel at the most significant collection of American ceramics in the country.

Syracuse features a vibrant and diverse food scene. If you enjoy brunch, Modern Malt, a local favourite, is the place to be. And for some amazing authentic Cuban dishes, head to Esquina Habanera.

The busiest coach and train station in the city is the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center. From there you can catch an Amtrak train or a coach run by Greyhound, New York Trailways, OurBus or Jefferson Lines to various cities, including New York, Boston, and Albany. Syracuse is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the principal airport in the city, and it is located five miles northwest of downtown.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main departure station: Union Station

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0CHIUST-2

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 Syracuse?

Main arrival station: Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir

Regional Transportation Center (1 Walsh Cir) - SYRAMT-0

Opened in 1998, the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center (commonly referred to as the RTC) serves as a multi-service stop for travel throughout Central New York. The Transportation Center serves several Amtrak train lines, including the Empire Service, the Maple Leaf, and the Lake Shore Limited, as well as Greyhound and Trailways coaches. As the central ground travel hub in Syracuse, the station provides transport for roughly 153,000 people annually. In addition to providing easy access to local landmarks such as the Destiny USA shopping centre and the NBT Bank Stadium, the RTC can also take you further afield to popular destinations such as Niagara Falls, New York City, and Washington, D.C., among other places. At the RTC, you will find a Dunkin' Donuts, as well as a Great States newsstand. The free WiFi and climate-controlled waiting area make it a pleasant place to wait for your coach or train.

Train stations in Syracuse:

  • Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir
  • Syracuse Hancock Intl Apt

Need a return trip from Syracuse to Chicago?

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