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Trip Summary
You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Chicago and Lawrence. The average train journey from Chicago to Lawrence takes 12 hours and 46 minutes, but some Amtrak Southwest Chief train trips are as short as 9 hours.
| Distance | 447 mi (720 km) |
| Fastest train | 9h 0m |
| Lowest price | $65.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Lawrence?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Lawrence was $81.07. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Lawrence if you book your train tickets at least 22 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $37.00.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Chicago to Lawrence. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 22 days before departure, you can save around $37.00. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Lawrence?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Lawrence. Amtrak 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 | 2 | 14h 41m | $104.39 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 9h 0m | $90.67 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Lawrence every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $77.
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 Lawrence in about 9 hours and 0 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Lawrence is approximately 447 miles, or 720 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 9 hours,
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 Lawrence are the most crowded on Friday. 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 Sunday 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.
There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Lawrence. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Lawrence 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.
Lawrence
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Lawrence is the sixth largest city in Kansas and is home to the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University. The city is home to different museums for historical exhibits, art objects from around the world, and hands-on exhibits. Some top museums include the KU Natural History Museum and Watkins Museum of History. Young creatives and students in the city enjoy visits to the Lawrence Arts Center and the Spencer Museum of Art. On the south of Lawrence, nature lovers can go birdwatching on Baker Wetlands, home to hundreds of bird species. Hikers and outdoor lovers can check out the trail in Clinton State Park or go fishing at Clinton Lake.
As a university city popular among students and young professionals, Lawrence boasts a vibrant downtown area with exciting entertainment, shopping, and dining districts. Massachusetts Street has been named one of the most beautiful main streets in the US, where you can find pubs, coffee shops, and shopping centers.
If you're visiting Lawrence, you can do so by train with Amtrak and Amtrak Southwest Chief train services. Book with Greyhound or Jefferson Lines for intercity bus service. The Lawrence Transit system provides public transport across the city for students, locals, and visitors.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
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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 Lawrence?
Main arrival station: 413 E 7th St
Lawrence has one train station.
All train stations in Lawrence:
413 E 7th St
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