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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Chicago to Newark. The train trip from Chicago to Newark is usually about 20 hours and 15 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 639 mi (1029 km) |
| Fastest train | 20h 15m |
| Lowest price | $263.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Chicago to Newark?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Newark. 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 | 1 | 20h 15m | $263.00 |
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 1 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Newark every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $263.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Newark is approximately 639 miles, or 1029 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 20 hours and 15 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.
Saturday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Chicago to Newark. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Saturday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Saturday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 6:00pm and arrives in Newark around 20 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Newark to Chicago.
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.
Newark
Newark, Delaware, is a small city packed with history and culture. The picturesque Historic Courthouse, which dates to the 18th century, boasts an impressive stone exterior and a Tiffany glass skylight inside. The Iron Hill School Museum is exactly what it says on the tin: a museum in a historic schoolhouse on Iron Hill. The small building is filled to the brim with natural history exhibits and Native American artifacts. For those too cool for school, swing by the free Mineralogical Museum on the University of Delaware campus for one of the best mineral, crystal, and gem collections in the U.S.
Newark is also known for its excellent dining at places like Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, the Stone Balloon Ale House, or Home Grown Cafe. When you’re ready to work off those meals, visit Glasgow Park Trail, with a basketball court, tennis court, and a general exercise area. The Newark Shopping Center is the local go-to for eating and shopping, or take a drive out to Christiana Mall between Newark and Wilmington for more options.
Amtrak connects the city to Philadelphia, Newark (the other one), and Baltimore from the Newark Train Station, right next to the University of Delaware campus. Flixbus also has service across Delaware, with routes connecting Newark to Boston, Charlotte, and Greensboro.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure 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
Where is the train station in Newark?
Main arrival station: 10 Mopar Dr
Newark has one train station.
All train stations in Newark:
10 Mopar Dr
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