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Chicago to Syracuse train

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Chicago - Syracuse Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to Syracuse. Traveling by train from Chicago to Syracuse usually takes 15 hours and 2 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 12 hours and 58 minutes.

Distance590 mi (950 km)
Fastest train12h 58m
Lowest price$67.00
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Syracuse

(Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.3

5.0

Miriam R

December 21, 2022- Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: The time management. Cons: The bathroom cleaning and general train hygiene. Tips: It looked like some travelers denied other travelers to sit next to them. Not good.

4.0

Roberto

November 26, 2022- Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Good price/quality ratio. Cons: Cleanness in the bathrooms.

5.0

Muneesh

October 15, 2022- Visiting family

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: On time operations. Cons: Seats can be more reclining for journeys beyond 6 hours. Tips: No.

4.0

Beverly

July 13, 2022

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Need to check on the bathrooms more often. Tips: Please when using the bathroom be more respectful of others usuing the bathroom. Flush the toilet, close the bathroom door gently Don't Slam the door.

4.0

Victor

November 24, 2021- Couples trip

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Ease of Travel and Accesibility. Cons: Front seats on the train aren't the greatest for sleeping without small desk.

Price trends for trains from Chicago to Syracuse

Average prices by travel date

$150$100$50AprMay

Monthly average prices

$150$120$90$60$30MJJASONDJFMA

Prices as travel date approaches

$475$380$285$190$953020100

Which train should you take from Chicago to Syracuse?

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

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak217h 15m$117.80
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited212h 59m$109.30
  • 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 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Syracuse every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $79.

  • 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 Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir in Syracuse. The route takes about 12 hours and 59 minutes and ticket prices start at $67.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Syracuse. 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 Syracuse is approximately 590 miles, or 950 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 2 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 58 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 departing from Chicago to Syracuse tend to have the most passengers on Tuesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Tuesday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Saturday as the least number of people tend to travel then.

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.

There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Syracuse. 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 Syracuse 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.

Syracuse

Syracuse, NY

Image credit: David Wilson

Link to image attribution

Syracuse might not be the top destination for tourists in New York, but it does have plenty of quirky and fun destinations for all age groups. Upon your first arrival to the city, don’t miss out on the chance to take a stroll around the historic Armory Square, considered to be the top destination by locals. The square also features plenty of restaurants and nightclubs if you are looking for the quarter with the best nightlife in town. If you want to mingle with a good crowd for some fun, the Carrier Dome, which is located within the campus of Syracuse University, will offer the adrenaline rush you need. For those seeking a more culturally-inclined activity, head towards the Everson Museum of Art and marvel at the most significant collection of American ceramics in the country.

Syracuse features a vibrant and diverse food scene. If you enjoy brunch, Modern Malt, a local favorite, is the place to be. And for some amazing authentic Cuban dishes, head to Esquina Habanera.

The busiest bus and train station in the city is the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center. From there you can catch an Amtrak train or a bus run by Greyhound, New York Trailways, OurBus or Jefferson Lines to various cities, including New York, Boston, and Albany. Syracuse is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the principal airport in the city, and it is located five miles northwest of downtown.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

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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 Syracuse?

Regional Transportation Center (1 Walsh Cir) - SYRAMT-0

Image credit: Kim

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Main arrival station: Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir

Opened in 1998, the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center (commonly referred to as the RTC) serves as a multi-service stop for travel throughout Central New York. The Transportation Center serves several Amtrak train lines, including the Empire Service, the Maple Leaf, and the Lake Shore Limited, as well as Greyhound and Trailways buses. As the central ground travel hub in Syracuse, the station provides transport for roughly 153,000 people annually. In addition to providing easy access to local landmarks such as the Destiny USA shopping center and the NBT Bank Stadium, the RTC can also take you further afield to popular destinations such as Niagara Falls, New York City, and Washington, D.C., among other places. At the RTC, you will find a Dunkin' Donuts, as well as a Great States newsstand. The free WiFi and climate-controlled waiting area make it a pleasant place to wait for your bus or train.

All train stations in Syracuse:

  • Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir

  • Syracuse Hancock Intl Apt

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