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You can pick from 5 daily train trips between Chicago and Baltimore. The average train journey from Chicago to Baltimore takes 21 hours and 42 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 18 hours and 51 minutes.
| Distance | 605 mi (973 km) |
| Fastest train | 18h 51m |
| Lowest price | US$86.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Overall score for trains from Chicago to Baltimore
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: Smooth, safe and on time. Cons: Very pleased with the trip. No additions or suggestions at this time.
5.0
Pros: The trip was very nice the driver took the time to explained every little details it means. Cons: Everytime you have to reborded the bus you have to be cheicked. Tips: No sommes are kinds sommes are very rudes.
The average price for a train ticket from Chicago to Baltimore is US$151.91, Tickets are generally pricier for this train route, which is to be expected given the long distance. By booking your trip at least 26 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay US$88.44 more.
The average cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Baltimore is expected to fluctuate between US$143 and US$222 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Baltimore in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Chicago is US$146.
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Baltimore 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$156,
If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Baltimore during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$231 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 26 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Baltimore from Chicago will be about US$88.44 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
2 train services operate from Chicago to Baltimore. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 4 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 21h 33m | US$184.76 |
| Amtrak Cardinal | 1 | 1d 0h 46m | US$166.67 |
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 Chicago to Baltimore every day, as well as 9 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$105.
The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Chicago to Baltimore per day, with an average trip length of 24 hours and 46 minutes.
The distance between Chicago and Baltimore is approximately 605 miles, or 973 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 21 hours and 42 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 18 hours and 51 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 spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Wednesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Chicago to Baltimore. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Wednesday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Saturday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 17:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 18:00. 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 5 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Baltimore. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Baltimore to 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 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.
Baltimore is a seaport in Maryland best known for its crab cakes and baseball legend, Babe Ruth. As there is plenty to see in Charm City, you'll be singing "Good Morning, Baltimore'' as soon as you experience all of the sights and activities this quirky town has to offer.
Some of Baltimore's most impressive attractions are centered in and around Inner Harbor. This scenic waterfront is filled with historic ships, dating as far back as the Civil War in the case of the USS Constellation. Alongside shops and restaurants, Inner Harbor also hosts the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, and several entertainment venues where you can catch live music. Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the harbor from atop Federal Hill Park, or if you prefer the view that inspired "The Star Spangled Banner," head out to Fort McHenry, known for its role in the War of 1812.
Baltimore is one of the stops on Wanderu's recommended East Coast wine tour, but don't worry about racking up a hefty tab; luckily, Baltimore is also one of the cheapest drinking cities in the U.S., with the cheapest bottle of beer going for just $1.42. Enjoy your wine or beer along the Avenue in Hampden, a neighborhood known for its hipster bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
Ready to plan your Baltimore adventure? Numerous bus and train options make Baltimore affordably accessible by ground transportation, and Baltimore-Washington International Airport not only offers hundreds of daily flights, it also is one of the best airports for food in the U.S.
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.
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Image credit: Irteagle102704
Pennsylvania Station, commonly referred to as just Penn Station, is the main train station in Baltimore. Owned and operated by Amtrak, the station serves as a regional hub for all of the train carrier’s nine services that pass through Baltimore, including the Acela, the Northeast Regional, the Crescent, and the Palmetto. Conveniently located near Baltimore’s downtown and Inner Harbor, Penn Station is accessible from all parts of the city via several transit bus lines and two commuter rail services. The Johns Hopkins and Baltimore Collegetown shuttles also serve Penn Station, allowing students to travel easily between the train station and campus.
Penn Station - 1500 N Charles St
Amtrak - MARC Station (BWI)
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