Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Erie
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Erie. Traveling by train from Chicago to Erie usually takes 8 hours and 48 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 388 mi (624 km) |
| Fastest train | 8h 48m |
| Lowest price | $80.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Chicago to Erie Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Erie?
There are usually 5 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Erie.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$122.46 | Avg. Price$109.39Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips5 |
Duration | Duration8h 48mFaster | Duration18h 21m |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Erie:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Erie?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Erie was $94.62. 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 $275.02 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Erie by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Erie will cost between $69 and $120. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Erie by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Erie 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 $74. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Erie during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $140 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Erie on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $275.02 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Erie?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Erie, including Amtrak Lake Shore Limited. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 8h 48m | $122.46 |
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 125 W 14th St in Erie. The route takes about 8 hours and 48 minutes and ticket prices start at $69.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Erie
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 Erie 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 Erie to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Erie for $45.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Chicago and Erie is approximately 388 miles, or 624 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 48 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)
388
DISTANCE (KM)
624
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 Erie 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.
Erie
Named for the Great Lake it sits upon, Erie is one of Pennsylvania's most picturesque cities. Erie is about halfway between Buffalo and Cleveland and about two hours north of Pittsburgh.
One of the most popular spots to visit, Presque Isle State Park, is a curved peninsula that extends into Lake Erie and creates 11 miles of beaches. Swim on the beaches, birdwatch near some of its lagoons, or tour the Presque Isle Lighthouse for a full day of lakeside exploring. Then, head up to the Port Erie Bicentennial Tower on the bayfront for epic panoramic views of the park and lake beyond.
Discover the city's buzzing nightlife by visiting downtown Erie, where you'll find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Go big with a concert at Erie Insurance Arena, or watch a horse race at the Presque Isle Downs & Casino.
Barons Bus Lines and Jefferson Lines provide affordable bus transportation from Erie to Cleveland, Columbus, Buffalo, and beyond. The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited runs from Chicago through Erie, onward to Boston and New York City. Erie International Airport has a handful of flights to Charlotte and Chicago, but if you're flying from Erie, you'll find more destinations available from Buffalo or Cleveland's airports.
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 Erie?
Main arrival station: 125 W 14th St
Erie has one train station.
All train stations in Erie:
- 125 W 14th St
Need a return trip from Erie to Chicago?
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