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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Ottumwa
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Ottumwa. Traveling by train from Chicago to Ottumwa usually takes 7 hours and 56 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 4 hours and 57 minutes.
- Distance
- 255 mi (410 km)
- Fastest train
- 4h 57m
- Lowest price
- RON 230.86
- Trains per day
- 1
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak California Zephyr
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Ottumwa Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Ottumwa?
There are usually 3 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Ottumwa.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceRON 505.06 | Avg. PriceRON 346.74Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips3 |
Duration | Duration7h 56mFaster | Duration14h 55m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Ottumwa (Based on 4 ratings and reviews)
5.0
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Ottumwa:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Ottumwa?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Ottumwa was RON 332.43. 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 RON 2,008.44 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Ottumwa by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Ottumwa will cost between RON 180 and RON 429. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Ottumwa by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Ottumwa often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only RON 263. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Ottumwa during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 628 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 Ottumwa on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 2,008.44 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Ottumwa?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Ottumwa. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 11h 17m | RON 297.87 |
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 4h 57m | RON 689.82 |
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 Ottumwa every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from RON 230.86.
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 Ottumwa
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 Ottumwa 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 Ottumwa to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Ottumwa for RON 191.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Ottumwa is approximately 255 miles, or 410 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 56 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 57 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)
255
Distance (km)
410
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40am 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.
First train
7:40am
Last train
2:00pm
Trains from Chicago to Ottumwa are the most crowded on Monday. 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.
Busiest
Monday
Least crowded
Wednesday
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 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 is the train station in Ottumwa?
Main arrival station: 210 W Main St
Ottumwa has one train station.
All train stations in Ottumwa:
- 210 W Main St
Need a return trip from Ottumwa to Chicago?
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