Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale. Traveling by train from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale usually takes 46 hours and 19 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 45 hours and 51 minutes.
| Distance | 1169 mi (1881 km) |
| Fastest train | 45h 51m |
| Lowest price | $167.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Fort Lauderdale Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale?
There are usually 5 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$355.10 | Avg. Price$240.83Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips5 |
Duration | Duration46h 19m | Duration32h 8mFaster |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale was $293.97. Considering the distance between Chicago and Fort Lauderdale, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $382.03 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale will cost between $273 and $353. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only $288. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $454 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about $382.03 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale, including Amtrak, Amtrak Floridian. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 46h 39m | $414.59 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 45h 51m | $272.24 |
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 Fort Lauderdale every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $286.
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale start from $167, and on average cost $272.24. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Floridian schedules to Fort Lauderdale. Amtrak Floridian in Chicago leaves from Union Station. And in Fort Lauderdale trains arrive at Tri-Rail Station - 200 SW 21 Ter.
From Chicago to Fort Lauderdale train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 45 hours and 51 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Fort Lauderdale on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost $167 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale
Trains leave the station in Chicago 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale for $108.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Chicago and Fort Lauderdale is approximately 1169 miles, or 1881 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 46 hours and 19 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 45 hours and 51 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.
DISTANCE (MI)
1169
DISTANCE (KM)
1881
The earliest train departs Chicago at 5:55pm while the last train of the day leaves at 6:40pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
5:55pm
LATEST TRAIN
6:40pm
Trains from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale are the most crowded on Thursday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Thursday
LEAST CROWDED
Friday
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.
Fort Lauderdale
Nicknamed the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale offers vast stretches of white sand beaches at affordable prices, allowing the average traveler to enjoy fun under the sun with ease. Fort Lauderdale Beach is the premier destination for beach-goers and nature lovers, and it is noticeably less chaotic than its counterpart at Miami Beach, making it a perfect spot for a quiet and leisurely getaway. Another alternative is the nearby Las Olas Beach, which features clean and refreshing water. Nature lovers can also take an airboat tour to the famous Everglades and get up close to the alligators.
For shopping fans, Sawgrass Mills, a famous shopping outlet with 250 stores, will be a top choice. Don’t forget to take the time for a stroll around the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District and enjoy the setting sun as the day comes to a close.
The Fort Lauderdale Amtrak station is the main train station in the city, offering quick access to other cities in the state of Florida. In the center of town, not too far from the train station, you can find the Greyhound station which is the busiest bus travel hub in Fort Lauderdale. The principal airport in the area is the Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport which, as its name suggests, is located right in between the two neighboring cities. However, it's also easy to get from Fort Lauderdale to Miami Airport for more flight options.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station
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:
- Union Station
Where does the train arrive in Fort Lauderdale?
Main arrival station: Tri-Rail Station - 200 SW 21 Ter
The Tri-Rail Station in Fort Lauderdale serves local Tri-Rail trains that travel throughout Florida and Amtrak trains to connect with the United States’ largest passenger rail system. Amtrak Silver Service trains stop in Fort Lauderdale along its New York to Miami route. The station features ample parking, indoor seating and restrooms, and two platforms with Mediterranean-style tiled roofs. Located adjacent to Interstate 95, it is easy to connect by highway to your final destination or head a few miles East into downtown Fort Lauderdale.
All train stations in Fort Lauderdale:
- Tri-Rail Station - 200 SW 21 Ter
Need a return trip from Fort Lauderdale to Chicago?
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