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Trip Summary
You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Tampa and Chicago. The average train journey from Tampa to Chicago takes 48 hours and 12 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 47 hours and 20 minutes.
| Distance | 1005 mi (1618 km) |
| Fastest train | 47h 20m |
| Lowest price | $284.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Tampa to Chicago?
Over the past month, a train ticket between Tampa and Chicago cost $313.50, on average. Due to the distance between Tampa and Chicago, train tickets on this route tend to be relatively pricey. Booking your trip at least 23 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $136.84 more.
Monthly avg. prices
Which train should you take from Tampa to Chicago?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Tampa to Chicago. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 2d 0h 12m | $395.22 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Tampa to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $280.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Tampa and Chicago is approximately 1005 miles, or 1618 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 48 hours and 12 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 47 hours and 20 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.
Friday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Tampa to Chicago. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Friday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Tampa at 10:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 10:00am. 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Tampa.
City Information
Tampa
Sitting at the heart of the Gulf Coast, Tampa offers a perfect blend of cultural attractions and relaxing indulgences. Infused with a colorful mix of Cuban and Spanish cultural elements, the city of Tampa houses some of the most impressive historic buildings in the state, including the Henry B. Plant Museum, which boasts a permanent exhibition of Victorian-era artifacts. Animal lovers can also rejoice, as the city’s many aquariums and zoos will certainly melt your heart. Head down to the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center for some heart-melting cuteness. And for animal lovers with a penchant for streaming docu-series, the Big Cat Rescue (yes, THAT one!) will be a great choice.
Most of the finest restaurants in town are concentrated around the Riverwalk area, which offers unrivaled views of the waterfront. Oystercatchers is reputed as one of the best establishments in town, so you should not miss out on it. Tampa’s cuisine features a very clear Cuban influence, and the best spot to try out these unique fusion dishes is at Ybor City.
The principal train station in the city is the Tampa Union Station, which is also a historic building. It is currently served by Amtrak. At the station, travelers can also take an Amtrak Thruway motorcoach to get to Orlando, Lakeland, Bradenton, etc. The main airport is Tampa International Airport, which is located just six miles west of downtown Tampa.
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 Tampa?
Image credit: Michel Curi
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Paul Sableman
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Union Station - 601 N Nebraska Ave
Opened in 1912, the Tampa Union Station is a historic train station that currently serves the Amtrak Silver Star train line, which runs from Miami to New York. The beautiful red brick station house features large windows and soaring ceilings. Located in the Channel District of Tampa, Union Station is close to several rental car agencies and has on-site and nearby parking available. Amtrak Thruway bus service stops at Union Station, and Greyhound bus service runs through a bus terminal only .5 miles away on Polk St.
All train stations in Tampa:
Union Station - 601 N Nebraska Ave
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.
All train stations in Chicago:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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