Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Ann Arbor
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Trip Summary
There are usually 6 daily train trips available from Chicago to Ann Arbor. Traveling by train from Chicago to Ann Arbor usually takes 6 hours and 46 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Wolverine train can make the trip in 4 hours and 14 minutes.
| Distance | 201 mi (324 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 14m |
| Lowest price | $39.00 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Wolverine |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Ann Arbor Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Ann Arbor?
There are usually 7 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Ann Arbor.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$91.19 | Avg. Price$53.22Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips6 | Daily Trips7 |
Duration | Duration6h 46mFaster | Duration6h 52m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Ann Arbor (Based on 33 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Ann Arbor:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Ann Arbor?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Ann Arbor was $76.61. 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 $34.33 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Ann Arbor by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Ann Arbor will cost between $62 and $114. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Ann Arbor by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Ann Arbor 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 $75. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Ann Arbor during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $92 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Ann Arbor on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $34.33 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Ann Arbor?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Ann Arbor, including Amtrak Wolverine, Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Wolverine | 3 | 4h 27m | $74.54 |
| Amtrak | 3 | 8h 52m | $106.28 |
The Amtrak Wolverine provides rail service from Chicago to Pontiac, Michigan, and offers 3 trips per day. Each train features amenities such as a cafe car and onboard WiFi. The average ticket price from Chicago to Ann Arbor on the Wolverine is $74.54, but you can find deals for as low as $39.
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 3 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Ann Arbor every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $53.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Ann Arbor
If you’re looking for comfort from Chicago to Ann Arbor, a train is the best option. Buses and trains both offer Wi-Fi, outlets and onboard restrooms, but trains have a bit more to offer. The standard Amtrak has both a Café Car and a Quiet Car, and Amtrak Wolverine goes beyond the typical to provide snacks and extra legroom. The train from Chicago to Ann Arbor usually takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes. Buses are usually cheaper, but train rides still start as low as $31 for a ticket.
There is an Amtrak station in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Amtrak is a great option when traveling from Chicago to Ann Arbor because in addition to a daily trip on the traditional Amtrak train, there are 3 daily trips from Chicago to Ann Arbor on Amtrak Wolverine (a higher speed Amtrak train).
There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. 3 of these are direct connections to Ann Arbor. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Ann Arbor to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Ann Arbor for $31.
TRIPS PER DAY
6
DIRECT TRIPS
3
The distance between Chicago and Ann Arbor is approximately 201 miles, or 324 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 14 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)
201
DISTANCE (KM)
324
The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:45am 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.
EARLIEST TRAIN
6:45am
LATEST TRAIN
9:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Ann Arbor 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Friday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
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.
Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is a quirky city filled with interesting secrets for curious travelers. The first thing to do in Ann Arbor is to check out its crown jewel, the University of Michigan. Boasting as many as 30 libraries and more than 16 museums, the university will fulfill every culturally-inclined traveler’s desires with ease. Nature lovers who enjoy a breath of fresh air should consider hopping on the Huron River Water Trail, which offers plenty of opportunities for paddling. Also don’t miss out on a show at the famous Michigan Theater, which offers retro shows and live acts.
Travelers can enjoy an authentic Ann Arbor culinary experience at Kerrytown, a historic quarter in the city. Located there are the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, as well as Zingerman’s Deli, both of which are local favorites.
The Amtrak station at 325 Depot St serves as the city’s main hub for both bus and train travel. From the station you can catch a bus or train to various cities such as Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and beyond. Ann Arbor is served by Amtrak’s Wolverine line. The city’s main airport is the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from 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 does the train arrive in Ann Arbor?
Main arrival station: 325 Depot St - Amtrak Station
The Ann Arbor Amtrak Station is located in the downtown area of Ann Arbor at 325 Depot St and handles most of the city’s rail transportation. The station is served by the Wolverine line, which runs from Pontiac to Chicago three times each day. Intercity bus service from Barons Bus Lines, Miller Transportation, and Greyhound also stop at the Depot St station. Metered parking is available on-site, and the station building includes public restrooms and a convenient taxi stand. Several restaurants are in the surrounding area, and if you have time to kill before your train, take a short walk to the scenic Broadway Park along Huron River.
All train stations in Ann Arbor:
- 325 Depot St - Amtrak Station
Need a return trip from Ann Arbor to Chicago?
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