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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Lincoln

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

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Chicago to Lincoln Train Schedule

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

There are usually 1 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Lincoln.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
£59.58
Avg. Price
£134.62
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
1
Daily Trips
2
Duration
Duration
15h 35m
Duration
13h 46m

Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Lincoln. Traveling by train from Chicago to Lincoln usually takes 13 hours and 37 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 10 hours and 36 minutes.

Distance475 mi (764 km)
Fastest train10h 36m
Lowest price£78.46
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak California Zephyr
Train lines2

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Lincoln

(Based on 3 ratings and reviews)

4.3

4.0

Milind

May 7, 2023- Business

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: At the outset it is excellent trip. However, more than 2hrs delay put me in very strange situation to reach Lincoln Railway station 2.30 am on 8 May, and somehow could contact the pre-booked booked taxi agency with the help of co-passenger. This is my first visit to main Land and didn't have mobile internet. Cons: Kindly consider to provide free WiFi networks inside this longer route train. Tips: Please be ready to face any delay in arrival and departure!!!

5.0

Edgar

May 30, 2021- Solo travel

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: All is good! Cons: Nothing but, WiFi, there is no way you can't have, this is a must, shameful! Tips: I'm gonna make tbe in time, flush toilet! his my travel option!

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, NE was £101.73. 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 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around £216.35 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Lincoln by travel date

£213£142£71JulAug

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Lincoln will cost between £82 and £205. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Lincoln by month

£149£120£90£60£30ASONDJFMAMJJ
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Lincoln 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 £76. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Lincoln during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of £132 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

£187£149£112£75£373020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Lincoln on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about £216.35 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Lincoln?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Lincoln. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak116h 55m£116.42
Amtrak California Zephyr110h 36m£168.06

  • 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 Lincoln every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £77.

  • Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Lincoln

The distance between Chicago and Lincoln is approximately 475 miles, or 764 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 37 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 10 hours and 36 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 Lincoln are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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.

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.

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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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.

Lincoln

Lincoln, NE, US - LNK-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and is known as Nebraska's political hub, culture center, and foodie haven. It's home to the Nebraska State Capitol, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and other historical attractions.

The Sunken Gardens is a top place to visit for outdoor fun, with lily ponds, themed gardens, and sculptures. Young families will enjoy visiting the Lincoln Children's Zoo, offering a zoo train and up-close animal encounters. On the University of Nebraska Campus, art lovers can check the Sheldon Museum of Art for its notable sculpture garden and American art collection.

As the capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is bustling with nightlife and many fun things to do. You can participate in different activities, from the Lincoln Escape Room and Zoo Bar to the Bourbon Theater and James Arthur Vineyards. The craft beer scene in Lincoln is bustling with taprooms, breweries, and bars. Zipline Brewing Co is one of the city's most popular craft artisan lagers and ales.

Amtrak provides train service to the city, while Jefferson Lines and Burlington Trailways offer buses. StarTran provides citywide transportation to those in Lincoln.

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: 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 Lincoln?

Main arrival station: 277 Pinnacle Arena Dr

Lincoln has one train station.

All train stations in Lincoln:

  • 277 Pinnacle Arena Dr

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in Lincoln by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

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