Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Harrisburg

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Trip Summary

There is one daily train from Chicago to Harrisburg. Traveling by train from Chicago to Harrisburg usually takes 18 hours and 44 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 16 hours and 55 minutes.

Distance: 570 mi (917 km)
Fastest train: 16h 55m
Lowest price: CHF 106.90
Trains per day: 1
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 1

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Chicago to Harrisburg Train Schedule

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

There are usually 15 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Harrisburg.

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceCHF 166.88	Avg. PriceCHF 108.92Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips1	Daily Trips15
Duration	Duration18h 44mFaster	Duration18h 52m

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

Amtrak tickets: CHF 107 one-way

See more details

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

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Harrisburg cost about CHF 146 when booked at the cheapest time. 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 12 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 38.67 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Harrisburg by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Harrisburg will cost between CHF 121 and CHF 252. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Harrisburg by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Harrisburg 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 CHF 132. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Harrisburg during May, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 225 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in May, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Harrisburg on Wanderu at least 12 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 38.67 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Harrisburg?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Harrisburg. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	18h 44m	CHF 166.88

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 is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Harrisburg every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 106.90.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Harrisburg

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Harrisburg to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Harrisburg for CHF 63.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Harrisburg is approximately 570 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 18 hours and 44 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 16 hours and 55 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)

570

Distance (km)

917

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 5:35 PM and arrives in Harrisburg around 16 hours later.

First train

5:35pm

Last train

9:30pm

Trains from Chicago to Harrisburg 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 Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Saturday

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.

Harrisburg

As the capital city of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg offers numerous historic buildings with impressive architecture that will leave you in awe. Among the most impressive ones is the state’s Capitol Complex itself. With a dome that reminisces St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the building features as many as 475 rooms filled with exquisite artworks and statues. History fans should also consider visiting the State Museum of Pennsylvania, which follows the history of the state from the beginning of time to this day. Another must-see destination is the National Civil War Museum, which is one of the largest museums dedicated to the Civil War. If too many history lessons stress you out, a cruise along the Susquehanna River on the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat will definitely help you unwind.

Harrisburg’s grilled dishes are some of the most famous staples in the city, and among the best establishments is Progress Grill, which has been serving customers since the late 1940s. For some really creative pizzas, The Pizza Grille will be a good choice.

The Harrisburg Transportation Center is the central hub for intercity travel. At the lower level, you can catch a bus by Greyhound, Jefferson Lines or Fullington Trailways to other Pennsylvanian cities such as Allentown and Philadelphia. Travelers can also take Amtrak trains to popular destinations like New York and Philadelphia on a daily basis. The city’s principal airport is Harrisburg International Airport, which is located in Middletown, southeast of the city.

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 Harrisburg?

Main arrival station: Harrisburg Transportation Center

Harrisburg Transportation Center - HARHTC-0

Harrisburg Transportation Center - HARHTC-1

The Harrisburg Transportation Center (HTC) is a national historical landmark, with a portion of the station dating back to 1887. The station still serves as the city’s primary transportation hub and welcomes over half a million passengers annually. The Harrisburg Transportation Center is the departure point for Amtrak’s Keystone Service to New York City and a stop on the Pennsylvanian route from New York City to Pittsburgh. Besides train service, bus service on Jefferson Lines, Fullington Trailways, and Greyhound operates through this station. Located in downtown Harrisburg, the station is a quick walk from Capitol Park and some of the city’s top restaurants and shopping.

All train stations in Harrisburg:

Harrisburg Transportation Center

Need a return trip from Harrisburg to Chicago?

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