5.0
Pros: Nice smooth ride love Amtrak. Cons: Nothing much what more can you want when you used to being on plane. Tips: Enjoy the ride Amtrak the Great.
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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Ottumwa to Chicago. The train trip from Ottumwa to Chicago is usually about 5 hours and 34 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can get you there in as little as 5 hours and 32 minutes.
| Distance | 255 mi (410 km) |
| Fastest train | 5h 32m |
| Lowest price | $33.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak California Zephyr |
| Train lines | 1 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Ottumwa to Chicago
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
5.0
What is the price of a train ticket from Ottumwa to Chicago?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Ottumwa to Chicago was $33.00. This is an excellent deal, especially considering the length of the journey. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Chicago if you book your train tickets at least 25 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $47.33.
Monthly avg. prices
You can find the lowest prices on this route during February. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Ottumwa to Chicago, with the average price at just $48. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in June, when the average price goes up to $81. 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
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Ottumwa to Chicago. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 25 days before departure, you can save around $47.33. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Ottumwa to Chicago?
Amtrak California Zephyr is the one and only train line which connects Ottumwa 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.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 5h 35m | $67.11 |
Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Ottumwa and Chicago is approximately 255 miles, or 410 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 34 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 5 hours and 32 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 Ottumwa to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Tuesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Tuesday. 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 Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Ottumwa at 9:00am and arrives in Chicago around 5 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 Ottumwa.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Ottumwa?
Main departure station: 210 W Main St
There is one train station in Ottumwa.
All train stations in Ottumwa:
210 W Main St
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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