Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Burlington
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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Chicago to Burlington. The train trip from Chicago to Burlington is usually about 6 hours and 44 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can get you there in as little as 3 hours and 34 minutes.
| Distance | 195 mi (314 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 34m |
| Lowest price | €26.01 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Burlington
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
4.0
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Burlington?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Burlington, IA was €37.04. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around €12.82 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
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 Chicago to Burlington, with the average price at just €33. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in June, when the average price goes up to €79. 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
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Burlington on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about €12.82 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Burlington?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Burlington. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 9h 54m | €34.18 |
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 3h 34m | €46.93 |
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 Burlington every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €26.
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 about traveling by train from Chicago to Burlington
The distance between Chicago and Burlington is approximately 195 miles, or 314 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 44 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 34 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 from Chicago to Burlington are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00pm. 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 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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.
Burlington
Image credit: David Wilson
Link to image attributionBurlington is a city in Iowa, on the border of Illinois. The micropolitan area is popular for the Snake Alley natural amphitheater and the rich heritage of commerce and culture. Art and history lovers can check out the Art Center of Burlington and the Des Moines County Heritage Center Museum. Enjoy hiking and biking at the North Gorge Trail or the skate park, tennis court, outdoor pool, and 16-hole disc golf course at the Dankwardt Memorial Park. Baseball fans will be pleased to check out the Burlington Bees, while families can look out for a wide range of activities at FunCity.
The downtown Burlington area is the best place to visit for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city. You can look out for the Capitol Theater downtown to watch classic and independent films, while the Catfish Bend Casino offers adult fun, accompanied by hotels, chain restaurants, and a spa. Look out for concerts, magic shows, and other activities at the Burlington Memorial Auditorium. At Burlington, you can look out for the Snake Alley Festival of Film held annually.
Burlington has plenty of bus trips from Jefferson Lines. If you're visiting via train, you can find routes provided by Amtrak from over 100 other cities.
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 Burlington?
Main arrival station: 300 S Main St
Burlington has one train station.
All train stations in Burlington:
300 S Main St
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