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Chicago to East Lansing train

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Chicago - East Lansing Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to East Lansing. Traveling by train from Chicago to East Lansing usually takes 8 hours and 50 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Blue Water train can make the trip in 3 hours and 55 minutes.

Distance171 mi (276 km)
Fastest train3h 55m
Lowest price$25.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to East Lansing

(Based on 33 ratings and reviews)

4.7

5.0

Kristin

June 21, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Blue Water

Pros: Mostly that it left on time and arrived a few minutes early. It was very pleasant to be in seats w nice tray tables and I walked to the food/drink car. The bathroom was very big. All very easy. Cons: Coffee was not good. Tips: I tried to upgrade to business class and my “bid” wasn’t accepted. Then I was told there were no more seats. I wish I had purchased Business Class tix. Looked a little more comfortable.

5.0

Julia

June 18, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Blue Water

Pros: Just relaxed and enjoyed the ride. Cons: Both ways was not able to adjust seat. Tips: Don't be late. Full train.

5.0

Caroline

April 27, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Blue Water

Pros: Clear, informative announcements, courteous staff. Cons: Wifi access and connectivity.

5.0

Jay

April 21, 2023- Vacation

Amtrak Blue Water

Pros: Everything was FANTASTIC!! Cons: Sometimes couples can’t sit together in BUSINESS CLASS if someone else boards before them but it’s still great!! Tips: Take the Amtrak Train for sure!

5.0

Adelle

March 4, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Blue Water

Cons: The wifi on the train needs improvement. Tips: The train is safe and comfortable.

Price trends for trains from Chicago to East Lansing

Average prices by travel date

$90$60$30AprApr

Monthly average prices

$125$100$75$50$25MJJASONDJFMA

Prices as travel date approaches

$100$80$60$40$203020100

Which train should you take from Chicago to East Lansing?

2 train services operate from Chicago to East Lansing. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 3 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak310h 30m$88.69
Amtrak Blue Water13h 55m$43.81

  • 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 are 3 Amtrak trains from Chicago to East Lansing every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $38.

  • The Blue Water is a higher-speed Amtrak train line that travels 319 miles between Chicago, IL and Port Huron, MI. Both Coach and Business Class tickets are available to purchase on the Blue Water, but if you’re looking to save, make sure to book early and you could find tickets for as low as $25. Blue Water trains include amenities like free WiFi, cafe service, and power outlets at every seat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to East Lansing. 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.

The distance between Chicago and East Lansing is approximately 171 miles, or 276 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 50 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 55 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.

Trains from Chicago to East Lansing 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00pm. 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 4 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to East Lansing. 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 East Lansing 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.

East Lansing

East Lansing, a city shockingly located just east of Lansing, is primarily known as the home of Michigan State University. In fact, around half of its population is composed of students, and some of the city's most visited attractions are situated on the college campus. Among them are the historic W. J. Beal Botanical Garden, the 104-foot-tall Beaumont Tower, the contemporary Broad Art Museum, and the renowned Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Aside from its vibrant college life, East Lansing is also known for its yearly events, such as The East Lansing Film Festival, the largest of its kind in the entire state.

Lake Lansing is a go-to for swimming, fishing, or just getting some fresh air, but you'll also find parks and golf courses all around the city. The tree-lined Grand River Avenue divides the MSU campus from the rest of the city; find some of the city's best shopping and dining in the Grand River area, including HopCat, Beggar's Banquet, and Barrio East Lansing.

Public transit buses connect East Lansing to the closest airport, the Capital Region International Airport. However, it's also easy to take an intercity bus to nearby travel hubs, Detroit and Chicago, by booking a ticket with Greyhound, Indian Trails, or Jefferson Lines. East Lansing is a stop on Amtrak's Blue Water line, which makes train travel in and out of the city a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

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 East Lansing?

Main arrival station: Train Station - 1240 S Harrison Rd E

East Lansing has one train station.

All train stations in East Lansing:

  • Train Station - 1240 S Harrison Rd E

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