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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Rochester

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

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Chicago to Rochester Train Schedule

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

There are usually 3 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Rochester.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
$95.52
Avg. Price
$96.54
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
3
Daily Trips
1
Duration
Duration
17h 54m
Duration
11h 30m

Trip Summary

You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Chicago and Rochester. The average train journey from Chicago to Rochester takes 11 hours and 30 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.

Distance518 mi (833 km)
Fastest train11h 30m
Lowest price$70.00
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines1

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Rochester

(Based on 7 ratings and reviews)

4.6

5.0

Teresa

August 28, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: I loved the space, cleanliness and friendly staff. Cons: Allowing passengers who brought our food on train to be heated in the train microwave. Tips: Just ride and enjoy.

4.0

Kathiann

August 14, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Reasonably priced, comfortable ride. Cons: The power strip on the wall didn't work. Neither did the footrest on my seat. Tips: Bring a blanket. It gets cold during the trip.

4.0

Laura

July 12, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: I liked the fact that the trip was easy to book on Wanderu and also traveling overnight as we were able to maximize our time there. Cons: Although this is not Wanderu's fault, the train was over air conditioned to the point where folks were uncomfortable. Also, not that there were any problems, but I was rather shocked that you could have brought anything on the train (weapons, explosives, etc.) and it would have gone unnoticed. This made us feel a bit uneasy. Tips: I would suggest bringing a blanket or covering as both to and from were over airconditioned.

5.0

Deck

July 8, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Good way. Cons: Accident. Tips: No.

5.0

Jubaira

December 14, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Train on time, seat comfy and courteous staff. Cons: The train needs update and the toilet, it’s clean but old. Tips: Good value for money.

Price trends for trains from Chicago to Rochester

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Rochester by travel date

$120$80$40FebFeb

Monthly avg. prices

$125$100$75$50$25MAMJJASONDJF

Prices as travel date approaches

$175$140$105$70$353020100

Which train should you take from Chicago to Rochester?

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Rochester. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited211h 30m$93.59

  • 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 Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago and arrives at Louise M. Slaughter Station in Rochester. The route takes about 11 hours and 30 minutes and ticket prices start at $70.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Rochester

The distance between Chicago and Rochester is approximately 518 miles, or 833 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 30 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 Rochester 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 Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 9:00pm 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.

Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Rochester with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Rochester 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.

Rochester

Rochester, NY

Image credit: Ryan Hyde

Link to image attribution

Perched on the shore on Lake Ontario, Rochester is an idyllic city with a small-town vibe, making it the perfect destination for those looking for some family-friendly fun. Rochester’s pride is Highland Park, which is one of the oldest arboretums in the U.S. Designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features idyllic paths cutting through treelines and fragrant lilac bushes. If you wish to marvel at the beauty of the Genesee River’s Gorge, go on a hiking trip on the Genesee Riverway Trail. For more cultural activities, George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest photography museum, would be a great choice.

Rochester’s food scene features many quirky dishes, including the famous local garbage plate, which features your choice of meat along with decadent sides. For the best garbage plates, you might want to check out Nick Tahou Hots.

The city’s busiest bus station is the Trailways Terminal downtown. The station serves several bus carriers, including New York Trailways, Greyhound and OurBus, among others. The principal Amtrak train station is Louis M. Slaughter Station, which is located just across the street from the bus station. Rochester is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The city’s commercial air services are served by the Greater Rochester International Airport, located 3 miles southwest of downtown.

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 Rochester?

Louise M. Slaughter Station - ROCAMT-0

Image credit: Adam Moss

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Louise M. Slaughter Station

Opened in 2017, the Louise M. Slaughter Station Rochester is nearly brand new. It serves three Amtrak train lines: the Lake Shore Limited, the Empire Service, and the Maple Leaf. The station was renamed Louise M. Slaughter Station in honor of U.S. Representative Louise M. Slaughter, who died in March 2018. This intermodal transit station is connected to the rest of the area via transit buses and taxis. Spread across 9,500 square feet, Louise M. Slaughter Station has a classic red brick design, with cast stone and granite used in various places. At the station, you will find an indoor waiting area with plenty of seats. There are also several vending machines, an ATM, and restroom facilities.

All train stations in Rochester:

  • Louise M. Slaughter Station

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