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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Fargo and Chicago. The average train journey from Fargo to Chicago takes 13 hours and 16 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 569 mi (915 km) |
| Fastest train | 13h 16m |
| Lowest price | €53.72 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Fargo to Chicago?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Fargo to Chicago was €66.27. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Chicago if you book your train tickets at least 27 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra €96.55.
Average prices by travel date
For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Fargo to Chicago will range from €62 to €102. If you're planning to travel by train to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Fargo you can find in the next 7 days is €65. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Chicago from Fargo will be about €96.55 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Fargo to Chicago?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Fargo to Chicago. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 13h 16m | €81.35 |
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Fargo and Chicago is approximately 569 miles, or 915 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 16 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 Fargo to Chicago on Wednesday. Tickets for Wednesday 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.
The earliest train departs Fargo at 03:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 03:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Fargo twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Fargo.
City Information
Fargo
Fargo conjures up thoughts of the Old West, a movie, and one part of a famous stage coach line in the 1800s. However, this isn't the 1800s, and Fargo is more than a collection of outdated old stereotypes. It's now a thriving city with plenty of hotel, dining, and entertainment options. It's also home to North Dakota State University, a national powerhouse in the Football Championship Subdivision, and a vibrant artistic scene.
On your trip to Fargo, North Dakota's largest city, visit the Plains Art Museum, the Fargo Air Museum, and Bonanzaville USA to learn about local history. The Red River Zoo will be a hit with kids.
A visit to the Drekker Brewery is a must for beer lovers. Everything is still done by hand with meticulous attention to the ingredients and the quality of its beers. But, of course, the best way to get into the Drekker vibe is to go to their taproom and try a few samples!
Jefferson Lines provides bus service to Fargo, with routes from Minneapolis, Denton, and even Los Angeles. You can also hop on a train to Fargo from Chicago, New Haven, and Petersburg.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Fargo?
Main departure station: 420 4th St N
There is one train station in Fargo.
All train stations in Fargo:
420 4th St N
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main arrival 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.
Train stations in Chicago:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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