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6 trains operate daily from Columbus to Chicago. The train trip from Columbus to Chicago is usually about 4 hours long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 2 hours and 58 minutes.
| Distance | 123 mi (198 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 58m |
| Lowest price | US$22.00 |
| Trains per day | 4 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 3 |
Average score for trains from Columbus to Chicago
(Based on 3 ratings and reviews)
4.0
Pros: It was nice to sit with my kids and grandkids and not feel totally restricted to your seat for the entire trip. Cons: Could have been more clean. Tips: It's an easy, comfortable, economical way to travel.
5.0
Pros: Nice and quiet. Cons: Departure announcement. Tips: I recommend it.
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Columbus to Chicago was US$40.01. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 14 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$13.13 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Columbus to Chicago will cost between US$36 and US$80. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Columbus to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 14 days in advance. That way, you’ll save US$13.13 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
There are 3 train lines with service from Columbus to Chicago. Amtrak is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 4 trains each day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 4h 56m | US$47.12 |
Amtrak Borealis | 1 | 2h 59m | US$41.45 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 2h 58m | US$49.61 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 4 Amtrak trains from Columbus to Chicago every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$22.
Amtrak Borealis train tickets from Columbus to Chicago start from US$22, and on average cost . Daily there are 1 Amtrak Borealis schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Borealis in Columbus leaves from 359 N Ludington St . And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station .
From Columbus to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Borealis takes 2 hours and 59 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Borealis offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 2 hours and 58 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Borealis scheduled trip per day, which will cost for a one-way weekend reservation from Columbus.
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Trains from Columbus to Chicago are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 Columbus at 13:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 16:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. 4 of these are direct connections to Chicago. 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 Chicago to Columbus.
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.
There is one train station in Columbus.
359 N Ludington St
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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.
Union Station
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules 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 bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.
