Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Syracuse
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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 5 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 12 hours and 58 minutes.
| Distance | 590 mi (950 km) |
| Fastest train | 12h 58m |
| Lowest price | $104.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Syracuse Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Syracuse?
There are usually 5 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Syracuse.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$148.42 | Avg. Price$139.91Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips5 |
Duration | Duration15h 5mFaster | Duration21h 28m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Syracuse (Based on 6 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Syracuse:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Syracuse?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Syracuse was $125.90. 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 $1,620.10 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Syracuse by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Syracuse will cost between $97 and $155. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Syracuse by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Syracuse 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 $107. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Syracuse during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $194 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Syracuse on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $1,620.10 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Syracuse?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Syracuse, including Amtrak, Amtrak Lake Shore Limited. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 17h 15m | $150.10 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 12h 58m | $146.76 |
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 $98.
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 Union Station in Chicago and arrives at Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir in Syracuse. The route takes about 12 hours and 58 minutes and ticket prices start at $85.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Syracuse
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. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Syracuse for $69.
TRIPS PER DAY
4
DIRECT TRIPS
2
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 5 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.
DISTANCE (MI)
590
DISTANCE (KM)
950
The earliest train departs Chicago at 9:30pm 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
9:30pm
LATEST TRAIN
9:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Syracuse 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
LEAST CROWDED
Monday
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 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 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 Syracuse?
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
Need a return trip from Syracuse to Chicago?
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