Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Fort Madison
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Fort Madison. Traveling by train from Chicago to Fort Madison usually takes 6 hours and 19 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 3 hours and 35 minutes.
| Distance | 210 mi (338 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 35m |
| Lowest price | $40.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Southwest Chief |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Fort Madison Train Schedule
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Fort Madison:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Fort Madison?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Fort Madison was $43.00. This is an excellent price given the length of the route. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 17 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $98.50 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Fort Madison by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Fort Madison will cost between $40 and $94. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Fort Madison by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Fort Madison 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 $55. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Fort Madison during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $144 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Fort Madison on Wanderu at least 17 days ahead of time, you can save about $98.50 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Fort Madison?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Fort Madison, including Amtrak Southwest Chief, Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 3h 35m | $104.12 |
| Amtrak | 1 | 9h 25m | $51.64 |
The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to Fort Madison in about 3 hours and 35 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
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 Madison every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $40.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Fort Madison
The distance between Chicago and Fort Madison is approximately 210 miles, or 338 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 19 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 35 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)
210
DISTANCE (KM)
338
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40am while the last train of the day leaves at 1:30pm. 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
7:40am
LATEST TRAIN
1:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Fort Madison are the most crowded on Sunday. 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
Sunday
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.
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 Madison?
Main arrival station: Historic Santa Fe Station
Fort Madison has one train station.
All train stations in Fort Madison:
- Historic Santa Fe Station
Need a return trip from Fort Madison to Chicago?
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