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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Chicago to Wilmington. The train trip from Chicago to Wilmington is usually about 47 hours and 12 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 46 hours and 57 minutes.
| Distance | 746 mi (1200 km) |
| Fastest train | 46h 57m |
| Lowest price | €207.32 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Wilmington?
Over the past month, a train ticket between Chicago, IL and Wilmington, NC cost €248.32, on average. Due to the distance between Chicago and Wilmington, train tickets on this route tend to be relatively pricey. Booking your trip at least 28 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around €170.48 more.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Chicago to Wilmington. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 28 days before departure, you can save around €170.48. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Wilmington?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Wilmington. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1d 23h 13m | €325.30 |
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 1 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Wilmington every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €207.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Wilmington is approximately 746 miles, or 1200 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 47 hours and 12 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 46 hours and 57 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Chicago to Wilmington on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 17:00 and arrives in Wilmington around 46 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Wilmington to Chicago.
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 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.
Wilmington
A hidden jewel in the South, Wilmington has seen a steady increase in popularity in recent years, with some even going as far as calling it Hollywood East. To fully explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, take a stroll around the Historic District. Featuring not only quaint mansions but also interesting museums and superb eateries, the district offers a wealth of fascinating information about the city and its people. While walking around, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the Riverwalk. As one of the most romantic spots in the city, it offers plenty of chances to take the perfect Instagram shot. If military history is your thing, Battleship North Carolina, which has now been turned into a museum, will be a satisfying experience.
For eats, one of the most-loved establishments is Nippy’s Soul Food Restaurant, which offers a lovely mix of seafood and soul foods. Wine lovers should also not miss the chance to try a tasting session at the Noni Bacca Winery, a local favorite.
Wilmington transportation center is WAVE Forden Station Transit Center, which is located on Cando St. From the station, tourists can catch Greyhound buses. While there’s no rail service in and out of Wilmington, the city is part of the Amtrak network via the carrier’s Thruway bus line. The Wilmington International Airport is the principal airport in the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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.
All train stations in Chicago:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Where is the train station in Wilmington?
Image credit: Wave Transit
Main arrival station: WAVE Forden Station Transit Ctr - 505 Cando St
The Forden Station Transit Center is a hub for transportation services from Wilmington’s local Wave Transit buses as well as intercity bus service on Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway. The station was built in 1974 to improve public transportation in Wilmington and features aptly shaped wavy roofs atop sheltered sidewalks. Plenty of parking spots are available at the station, and if you’re up for a short walk, you can head to Costco around the corner for a $1.50 hot dog before your trip. The station is located a few miles north of downtown, about a 10-minute drive from Wilmington International Airport.
Train stations in Wilmington:
WAVE Forden Station Transit Ctr - 505 Cando St
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Need a return trip from Wilmington to Chicago?
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