Cheap train tickets from Raleigh to Chicago
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Raleigh to Chicago. Travelling by train from Raleigh to Chicago usually takes 1 day, 8 hours and 32 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 1 day and 28 minutes.
- Distance
- 641 mi (1032 km)
- Fastest train
- 24h 28m
- Lowest price
- US$122.00
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
Millions of travellers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest coach & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most coach & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travellers are saying about Wanderu:
Raleigh to Chicago Train Timetable
Is it better to travel by coach or train from Raleigh to Chicago?
There are usually 11 daily coach trips from Raleigh to Chicago.
Train | Coach | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceUS$214.93 | Avg. PriceUS$191.86Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips11 |
Duration | Duration32h 32m | Duration30h 33mFaster |

There are several train options that can take you from Raleigh to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Raleigh to Chicago?
In the last month, train tickets from Raleigh to Chicago cost about US$143 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 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$130.61 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Raleigh to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Raleigh to Chicago will cost between US$161 and US$272. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Raleigh to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Raleigh to Chicago 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$195. If you're thinking of travelling from Raleigh to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$280 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Raleigh to Chicago on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about US$130.61 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Raleigh to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Raleigh to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 39h 18m | US$236.51 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 24h 32m | US$189.43 |
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 Raleigh to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips at the weekends, with prices starting from US$176.










Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Raleigh to Chicago start from US$122, and on average cost US$189.43. Daily, Amtrak Floridian runs one schedule to Chicago. Amtrak Floridian in Raleigh leaves from Union Station. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From Raleigh to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 1 day and 32 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Floridian offers more express service options with a travel time of 1 day and 28 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost US$122 for a one-way weekend reservation from Raleigh.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Raleigh to Chicago
Trains leave the station in Raleigh 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 Chicago 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 Chicago to Raleigh. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the coach from Raleigh to Chicago for US$108.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Raleigh and Chicago is approximately 641 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 day, 8 hours and 32 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day and 28 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)
641
Distance (km)
1032
The earliest train departs Raleigh at 9:17 while the last train of the day leaves at 19:15. 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
9:17am
Last train
7:15pm
Trains from Raleigh to Chicago are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Thursday
Least crowded
Friday
City Information
Raleigh



As an up-and-coming smart city, Raleigh has a wide range of activities that will satisfy all kinds of travellers. One of the most famous destinations in the city is the Neuse River Trail, which boasts 28 miles of a scenic path running through Wake Forest. It goes through not only forests but also wetlands, allowing walkers and cyclists to take a breather from the concrete jungle and be one with nature. Raleigh is also a famous research city, so it makes sense to visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. With a permanent collection that attracts all ages, including whale skeletons and seahorse diorama, the museum is a great spot that you should not miss out on. If you wish to go shopping the old-fashioned way, the Raleigh City Market, which opened more than a century ago, allows you to meander through various small boutiques.
Raleigh’s reputation as a foodie haven is on a steady rise, and it currently houses five different establishments by chef Ashley Christensen, of which Poole’s Diner is particularly noteworthy. If you are looking for authentic North Carolina-style barbecues, Clyde Cooper’s stands among the most popular choices.
Raleigh’s main coach station is located outside of the city centre at 2210 Capital Blvd. The city’s Amtrak station is one of the busiest in the country, and there are daily trains running from Raleigh to New York City, Charlotte and Miami, among other places. The principal airport in the region is the Raleigh–Durham International Airport, which is northwest of Downtown.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Raleigh?
Main departure station: Union Station


The new multi-million dollar facility of Raleigh’s Union Station has quickly become one of the busiest train stations in North Carolina. Since opening in 2018, the station has expanded to serve over 150,000 passengers every year. Raleigh Union Station is an Amtrak station with routes connecting to major cities along the East Coast, including trips to New York City on the Carolinian or as far as Miami on Amtrak’s Silver Service. In addition, Amtrak’s Piedmont service from Charlotte ends its route in Raleigh. The station is a multi-level facility with tracks on the lower platform and retail shops on the main levels. It’s located in the heart of downtown, within a short walk of Nash Square, the CAM Raleigh art museum, and various restaurant options.
All train stations in Raleigh:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main arrival 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.
Train stations in Chicago:
- Union Station
Need a return trip from Chicago to Raleigh?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from Raleigh
Continue by train from Chicago
- Chicago to Miami TrainUS$315+
- Chicago to Indianapolis TrainUS$70+
- Chicago to Ann Arbor TrainUS$80+
- Chicago to East Lansing TrainUS$62+
- Chicago to Kalamazoo TrainUS$37+
- Chicago to St Louis TrainUS$70+
- Chicago to New York TrainUS$230+
- Chicago to Pittsburgh TrainUS$106+
- Chicago to Nashville TrainUS$123+
- Chicago to Atlanta TrainUS$298+
- Chicago to South Bend TrainUS$30+
- Chicago to Detroit TrainUS$80+
- Chicago to Holland TrainUS$27+
- Chicago to St Paul TrainUS$95+
- Chicago to Las Vegas TrainUS$388+
- Chicago to Cincinnati TrainUS$65+
- Chicago to Memphis TrainUS$109+
- Chicago to Milwaukee TrainUS$27+
Check out these popular routes
- Montreal to Québec City TrainUS$40+
- San Francisco to Los Angeles TrainUS$73+
- Washington DC to New York TrainUS$153+
- New York to Toronto TrainUS$168+
- New York to Boston TrainUS$164+
- Portland to Seattle TrainUS$48+
- Providence to New York TrainUS$155+
- Seattle, WA to Portland, ME Train
- Seattle to Portland TrainUS$49+

Wanderu is the simplest way to book coach and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare coach and train timetables and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap coach and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading coach and train companies, we always have the best coach and train deals out there.




