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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Chicago to Frederick. The train trip from Chicago to Frederick is usually about 24 hours and 45 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 24 hours and 40 minutes.
| Distance | 562 mi (904 km) |
| Fastest train | 24h 40m |
| Lowest price | $242.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Chicago to Frederick?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Frederick. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1d 0h 45m | $242.00 |
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 Frederick every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $242.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Frederick is approximately 562 miles, or 904 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 24 hours and 45 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 24 hours and 40 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Chicago to Frederick on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Sunday. Sunday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 6:00pm and arrives in Frederick around 24 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Frederick 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.
Frederick
Image credit: Pixabay
Frederick is a city in western Maryland with mountainous views and clustered spires. The city is popular for its intimidating 40-block historic district and Civil War sites. History buffs will enjoy the diverse history spots in the city, from the National Museum of Civil War Museum, which offers battlefield medical care exhibits, to the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum in a 1750s German colonial house. If you're traveling with children, you should visit the Rose Holl Manor Park & Museum, which includes a children's museum, the Adventure Park USA, offering fun rides, and the Gambrill State Park, which appeals to hikers. Art lovers can see virtual art exhibits at the Delaplaine Arts Center.
Downtown Frederick is an exciting spot in the city, as the entertainment district features a thriving craft beer scene, specialty stores, art galleries, and eateries. In the downtown area, you can check out Carroll Creek Park, which features fountains, footpaths, and an amphitheater where you enjoy performing arts. The Frederick Festival of the Arts is a mainstay in the city, but the Maryland Craft Beer Festival is another top reason to visit.
You can easily visit Frederick by train, with most of the train routes provided by Amtrak. If you decide to go by bus, Jefferson Lines has plenty of trips. TransIT provides bus routes within the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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 Frederick?
Main arrival station: Frederick Transit Center-MARC Station
Frederick receives travelers from Chicago at its two active train stations.
All train stations in Frederick:
Frederick Transit Center-MARC Station
1341 Hughes Ford Rd
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Need a return trip from Frederick to Chicago?
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