Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Boston

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Boston. Traveling by train from Chicago to Boston usually takes 22 hours and 7 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 21 hours and 54 minutes.

Distance: 849 mi (1366 km)
Fastest train: 21h 54m
Lowest price: SEK 1,188.67
Trains per day: 1
Most frequent service: Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines: 2

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

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4.8k Reviews

Chicago to Boston Train Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Boston?

There are usually 7 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Boston.

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceSEK 2,203.36	Avg. PriceSEK 1,965.33Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips2	Daily Trips7
Duration	Duration22h 7mFaster	Duration24h 54m

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Boston (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.5

4.0

Jose

August 5, 2023 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: The views on different location Cons: Be more organize and communicate have a plan B if there any problem on routes Tips: Go comfortable take pillow

5.0

Violet

July 28, 2021 - Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: I love riding trains and this was a very good experience. I miss hanging out in the lounge car and meeting random people, but COVID took that away. Maybe someday we can have that again. Tips: Bring headphones and your cell phone charger!

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Boston:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Boston?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Boston was SEK 1,628. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 21 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around SEK 2,263.78 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Boston by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Boston will cost between SEK 1,287 and SEK 6,258. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Boston by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Boston often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only SEK 1,994. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Boston during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of SEK 3,812 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 Boston on Wanderu at least 21 days ahead of time, you can save about SEK 2,263.78 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Boston?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Boston. 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	1	28h 16m	SEK 4,916.45
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited	2	22h 3m	SEK 2,174.81

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 is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Boston every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from SEK 4,302.79.
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 South Station in Boston. The route takes about 22 hours and 3 minutes and ticket prices start at SEK 1,011.84.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Boston

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Boston. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

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 Boston 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 Boston to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Boston for SEK 992.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Boston is approximately 849 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 22 hours and 7 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 21 hours and 54 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)

849

Distance (km)

1366

The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:40 PM while the last train of the day leaves at 9:30 PM. 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 Boston 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Monday

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.

Boston

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the country, but it is kept young and fresh with the help of over 150,000 students who flock to the city’s prestigious universities every year. Beantown’s many sights and activities celebrate American history, prolific sports teams, and New England seafood. So let's spill the tea (into the harbor, if you will):

Boston's Freedom Trail is the best way to see the city on foot and visit some of the most iconic landmarks of the American Revolution: from Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution to the Old North Church and Faneuil Hall. The Freedom Trail officially begins in Boston Common, the oldest public park in the U.S. and a beautiful spot for walking, picnicking, or ice skating in the winter. Foodies will love tasting the Italian cuisine in the North End and the modern eateries of South End, while sports fans can tour Fenway Park, and art lovers can explore the expansive Museum of Fine Arts.

From Boston, travelers can easily get to the beachy summer destination of Cape Cod, or surrounding states like New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island. With four main train stations and several bus stops in the city, as well as Boston Logan Airport (which, by the way, has some excellent airport food), Boston is a central hub for travel throughout New England and beyond.

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 Boston?

Main arrival station: South Station

South Station is the largest and busiest train station in Boston, and a major transportation hub for the greater New England area. South Station's 13 tracks are used by Amtrak, Acela, the MBTA commuter rail, and the MBTA subway system (a.k.a. the “T”) with connections to the Boston Logan International Airport. You can also access intercity bus service in the adjacent South Station Bus Terminal. South Station's historic train terminal opened in 1899 right in downtown Boston, and is close to many points of interest like the Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the hip Seaport district. At the terminal, you'll find free WiFi, luggage storage, a 24-hour information booth, and 14 dining options, including that New England favorite, Dunkin'.

All train stations in Boston:

South Station
Back Bay Station - 145 Dartmouth St

Need a return trip from Boston to Chicago?

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