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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Leavenworth to Chicago. The train trip from Leavenworth to Chicago is usually about 46 hours and 54 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can get you there in as little as 42 hours and 28 minutes.
| Distance | 1655 mi (2664 km) |
| Fastest train | 42h 28m |
| Lowest price | €120.62 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Leavenworth to Chicago?
In the last month, €120.62 was the average price of a train ticket from Leavenworth to Chicago. Tickets are generally somewhat expensive for this particular train route, which is to be expected given the long distance. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 28 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around €98.71 more than that for a same-day booking.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from Leavenworth to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Leavenworth to Chicago. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 2d 2h 35m | €201.20 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 1 | 1d 18h 28m | €222.78 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Leavenworth to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €165.
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 Leavenworth and Chicago is approximately 1655 miles, or 2664 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 46 hours and 54 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 42 hours and 28 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.
Trains departing from Leavenworth to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Wednesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Wednesday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Saturday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Leavenworth at 12:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 20:00. 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 Leavenworth twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Chicago faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Leavenworth.
City Information
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a truly unique destination since it looks exactly like a Bavarian mountain village. Most buildings are alpine-style lodges, and restaurants and cafes serve delicious German-style beer and food. The city is a year-round tourist destination not just for its German-themed events such as Oktoberfest, but also for its gorgeous outdoor scene. Visitors can explore a reindeer farm, hike in Icicle Gorge, wander through Eagle Creek, and enjoy the Leavenworth Ski Hill in winter. There's also the famous Nutcracker Museum, which has over 6,000 nut-cracking tools.
Leavenworth's closest airport is the Pangborn Memorial Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. The Amtrak Empire Builder has service from Philadelphia, Seattle, Portland, and more for more direct access to the town. Buses service the town from across the nation, including from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
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 Leavenworth?
Main departure station: Leavenworth
There are two stations in Leavenworth where you can board the train to Chicago.
All train stations in Leavenworth:
Leavenworth
Icicle Station
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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