Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Utica

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Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Utica. Traveling by train from Chicago to Utica usually takes 15 hours and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 14 hours and 7 minutes.

Distance: 637 mi (1025 km)
Fastest train: 14h 7m
Lowest price: RON 651.01
Trains per day: 2
Most frequent service: Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines: 2

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Chicago to Utica Train Schedule

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

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

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceRON 769.39	Avg. PriceRON 499.29Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips3	Daily Trips1
Duration	Duration15h 11mFaster	Duration19h

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Utica:

See more details

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Utica was RON 654.10. 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 11 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 195.44 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Utica by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Utica will cost between RON 545 and RON 850. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Utica by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Utica 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 RON 512. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Utica during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 1,713 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 Utica on Wanderu at least 11 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 195.44 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Utica?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Utica. 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:

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	17h 19m	RON 789.85
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited	2	14h 7m	RON 759.18

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 Utica every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from RON 660.25.
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 321 Main St in Utica. The route takes about 14 hours and 7 minutes and ticket prices start at RON 651.01.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Utica

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Utica. 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 Utica to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Utica for RON 438.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Utica is approximately 637 miles, or 1025 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 11 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 14 hours and 7 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)

637

Distance (km)

1025

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.

First train

9:30pm

Last train

9:30pm

Trains from Chicago to Utica are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Thursday

Least crowded

Sunday

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.

Utica

Utica is a city in western New York, the county seat of Oneida County, and the tenth-largest city in the state. The town is famous for its greens, pies, and riggies (a.k.a. spicy, creamy chicken rigatoni), but Utica has so much more going for it than a delicious pasta dish.

If you’re in town during the second weekend of July, you can join in (or sit back and watch) the Boilermaker, a 15-kilometer footrace covering miles of hilly terrain both in and out of the city. Another main attraction in the city is the Utica Zoo, which has Red Pandas, Arctic foxes, Brazilian Rainbow Boas, and so much more. Afterward, stroll through the lush grounds of Roscoe Conkling Park, 625-acre of green encompassing the zoo.

The Stanley Theatre is another big attraction for the city, and it’s an absolute must-see. Originally built in 1928, the theatre has the perfect mix of Classic Hollywood charm and all the modern amenities. Come for a historical tour, host an event, or settle in for a live performance of your favorite play or musical.

For more history and gorgeous architecture, visit Union Station– either to admire the views or to catch an Amtrak to Niagara Falls, Toronto, Chicago, New York City, and Boston. Or, better yet, hop aboard the Amtrak Adirondack that winds through the wine country of the Hudson Valley into Montreal, showcasing some of the finest views New York State has to offer. Greyhound also has service to Utica with major routes from Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, and Washington.

Station Information

Where is the train station 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 is the train station in Utica?

Main arrival station: 321 Main St

Utica has one train station.

All train stations in Utica:

321 Main St

Need a return trip from Utica to Chicago?

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