Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Waterloo
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Waterloo. Traveling by train from Chicago to Waterloo usually takes 2 hours and 44 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 2 hours and 43 minutes.
- Distance
- 138 mi (222 km)
- Fastest train
- 2h 43m
- Lowest price
- DKK 243.44
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Waterloo Train Schedule

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Waterloo (Based on 8 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Waterloo:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Waterloo?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Waterloo was DKK 297.99. 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 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around DKK 346.22 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Waterloo by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Waterloo will cost between DKK 250 and DKK 342. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Waterloo by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Waterloo 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 DKK 243. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Waterloo during May, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of DKK 408 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in May, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Waterloo on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about DKK 346.22 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Waterloo?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Waterloo. Amtrak Lake Shore Limited usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 2h 43m | DKK 360.60 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 2h 45m | DKK 323.30 |
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Chicago to Waterloo start from DKK 243.44, and on average cost DKK 360.60. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Floridian schedules to Waterloo. Amtrak Floridian in Chicago leaves from Union Station. And in Waterloo trains arrive at 485 West Van Vleek Street.
From Chicago to Waterloo train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 2 hours and 43 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Waterloo on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost DKK 243.44 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Union Station in Chicago and arrives at 485 West Van Vleek Street in Waterloo. The route takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes and ticket prices start at DKK 243.44.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Waterloo
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Chicago to Waterloo. You can also take a train for your return trip from Waterloo to Chicago.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
The distance between Chicago and Waterloo is approximately 138 miles, or 222 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 44 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 43 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.
Distance (mi)
138
Distance (km)
222
The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:40pm while the last train of the day leaves at 9:30pm. 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
6:40pm
Last train
9:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Waterloo 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Thursday
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.
Waterloo

Waterloo is a town in Indiana, getting its unique name from the city of the same name in Belgium. Despite being a small town, it offers a wide range of activities for families and sports lovers. You can take golf classes at the Bridgewater Golf Club or go skating with the family at the Skatin' Station. The family-friendly town is home to the Ft Wayne Children's Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. During your visit, some historical markers to check out include the Immaculate Conception Church and St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased in Waterloo, as the town is home to different specialty shops and boutiques. You can also visit when the De Kalb County Fair is in town, offering special events and auctions. The Summer Parade and Festival is an annual highlight in Waterloo, offering delicious food, activities for all ages, and fun presentations.
Waterloo is known as the crossroads of Northeastern Indiana, as it connects several major transportation routes. The travel hub has routes like I-69, US G, and IN 427 and is the only Amtrak passenger train stop in northeast Indiana.
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 Waterloo?
Main arrival station: 485 West Van Vleek Street
Waterloo has one train station.
All train stations in Waterloo:
- 485 West Van Vleek Street
Need a return trip from Waterloo to Chicago?
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