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Pittsburgh to Chicago train

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Pittsburgh - Chicago Train Timetable

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Trip Summary

There is one daily train from Pittsburgh to Chicago. Traveling by train from Pittsburgh to Chicago usually takes around 9 hours and 46 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.

Distance409 mi (659 km)
Fastest train9h 46m
Lowest priceUS$73.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Capitol Limited
Train lines1

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Overall score for trains from Pittsburgh to Chicago

(Based on 5 ratings and reviews)

4.6

5.0

BELINDA

23 November 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: I managed to sleep which is rare. Cons: I really can't fault anything. The restrooms were clean with soap and utilities. I could lie back and stretch my feet. The coach was clean. The train arrived on time to my destination. Really great experience. Tips: Try the train for your next road trip.

5.0

Rhonda

2 September 2022- Business

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: I felt safe and comfortable enough to sleep because I was traveling alone. The staff was incredibly nice, and the part of the train I was in was quiet. I reached my destination in a timely manner without incident. Cons: I travel a lot. I would like to receive more discounts. Tips: The train is the best way to go for me.

4.0

THERRIE

29 August 2022- Visiting family

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: it was not too long, this was my first time on a train and it was a smooth ride. Cons: Felt pretty cramp in the seating, my legs swollen maybe because no room to raise my legs. Tips: Bring a pillow for your neck or back.

4.0

Lori

6 June 2022- Visiting family

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: The train ride was easy. Cons: The air conditioner. It was very cold in the train. Tips: Bring a thin blanket and layer your clothes.

What is the price of a train ticket from Pittsburgh to Chicago?

Over the past month, a train ticket between Pittsburgh and Chicago cost US$74.00, on average. Booking your trip at least 26 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around US$226.00 more.

Average prices by travel date

US$135US$90US$45AprMay

The average cost of a one-way train trip from Pittsburgh to Chicago is expected to fluctuate between US$77 and US$129 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Pittsburgh is US$77.

Monthly average prices

US$150US$120US$90US$60US$30MJJASONDJFMA
You can find the lowest prices on this route during February. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Pittsburgh to Chicago, with the average price at just US$103. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in June, when the average price goes up to US$149. You can still score cheap deals below this average price, though, especially if you plan ahead and book your ticket in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

US$200US$160US$120US$80US$403020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Pittsburgh to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 26 days in advance. That way, you’ll save US$226.00 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Pittsburgh to Chicago?

Amtrak Capitol Limited is the one and only train line which connects Pittsburgh to Chicago. 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.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Capitol Limited19h 46mUS$109.80

  • Passing through seven states, 16 cities, and various National Parks, Amtrak Capitol Limited connects Washington D.C. and Chicago, on 750 miles of railroad. Taking over 17 hours for a complete trip, these trains offer various overnight accommodations and feature panoramic observation cars where passengers can enjoy exceptional scenery. The trains include various options for food; however, WiFi connectivity is not available onboard due to the rural nature of the route.

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance between Pittsburgh and Chicago is approximately 409 miles, or 659 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 9 hours and 46 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.

Thursday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Pittsburgh to Chicago. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Thursday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Thursday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Pittsburgh at 23:00 and arrives in Chicago around 9 hours later.

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Pittsburgh.

City Information

Pittsburgh

Once the epitome of American industrial power, Pittsburgh has recently seen new waves of changes that turn it into a vibrant destination for visitors, especially for families. When in Pittsburgh, don’t miss out on the chance to hop on the Duquesne Incline and get to the top of Mount Washington. You will be rewarded with a panoramic view of where the three rivers collide, which offers plenty of excellent photogenic angles. Culturally-inclined travelers will find the Senator John Heinz History Center the perfect place to spend a day in. It does not just offer exhibitions on the city’s history but also on its baseball and football legacies, as well as Heinz products. Whether you are a sports fan or not, it is worthwhile to check out the Heinz Field, which provides a unique waterfront view.

Pittsburgh’s staple is pierogies, and some of the highest-rated eateries that include the dish on their menu are Pierogies Plus and Penn Brewery. These establishments serve other Eastern European dishes for your enjoyment as well. For traditional American eats, Eleven has an excellent selection.

Jefferson Lines, Greyhound, and Fullington Trailways all provide intercity transit service to Pittsburgh, and visitors can catch their buses at the Grant Street Transportation Center. You can also catch Amtrak trains at the nearby Pittsburgh Union Station. The main airport of the city is the Pittsburgh International Airport, which is located 10 miles west of Downtown. Another alternative is the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, 44 miles east of the city.

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 Pittsburgh?

1100 Liberty Ave - PGHAMT-0

Image credit: David Brossard

Link to image attribution
1100 Liberty Ave - PGHAMT-1

Image credit: Barta IV

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1100 Liberty Ave - PGHAMT-2

Image credit: Luke H. Gordon

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Main departure station: 1100 Liberty Ave

Pittsburgh’s Union Station on Liberty Ave is a historic building that opened in 1903. Enter the station through enormous outdoor arches and pass beneath the spectacular rotunda dome with a central skylight. Once inside, you can catch the Capitol Limited train on its daily service from Chicago to DC or hop aboard the Pennsylvanian as it begins the journey to New York. Located in Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, the station offers easy access to the nearby bus terminal, parking, restaurants, and the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

All train stations in Pittsburgh:

  • 1100 Liberty Ave

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

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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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