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Chicago to Philadelphia train

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Chicago - Philadelphia Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 6 daily train trips available from Chicago to Philadelphia. Traveling by train from Chicago to Philadelphia usually takes 22 hours and 14 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 19 hours and 19 minutes.

Distance664 mi (1068 km)
Fastest train19h 19m
Lowest price£70.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Philadelphia

(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.5

4.0

Ashagre

January 15, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak Cardinal

Pros: good. Cons: waiting time for customer service. Tips: safe and comfy.

5.0

Amanda

November 8, 2021- Business

Amtrak

Pros: I had to take 2 trains they were both on time and my layover was only about 30 minutes which was great. The 2nd train I got on I had both seats to myself so I had plenty of room to stretch out! Cons: The seats could be made more comfortable some people travel a long way on the train other than that everything was great! Tips: Incase you don't feel like carrying your suitcase on the train you can check up to 2 bags for free it's included in your ticket no extra cost. I took advantage of this option. I checked my suitcase and only carried my backpack on the train. There is also a parcel check were you can leave your luggage incase you wanted to go somewhere without your luggage it's $10 per item if you are traveling with amtrak within the next 24hrs and $20 per item if you are not traveling with amtrak within the next 24 hrs . That i think is an awesome feature!!!

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Philadelphia was £133.56. 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 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around £90.06 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average prices by travel date

£193£129£64AprApr

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Philadelphia will cost between £118 and £184. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Monthly average prices

£181£145£109£72£36MJJASONDJFMA
Mark your calendar for February if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Philadelphia. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of £129. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Philadelphia during November, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about £171 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Prices as travel date approaches

£241£193£145£97£483020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Chicago to Philadelphia, book online with Wanderu at least 27 days in advance. That way, you’ll save £90.06 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Chicago to Philadelphia?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Philadelphia. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 6 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak621h 59m£163.88
Amtrak Cardinal11d 1h 56m£132.78

  • 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 6 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Philadelphia every day, as well as 6 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £80.

  • The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Chicago to Philadelphia per day, with an average trip length of 25 hours and 56 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance between Chicago and Philadelphia is approximately 664 miles, or 1068 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 22 hours and 14 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 19 hours and 19 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.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Chicago to Philadelphia on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Saturday. Saturday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 5:00pm 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 6 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Philadelphia. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia

We may feel a little bit more than just brotherly love for Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and culture. Where else can you channel your inner Rocky Balboa on his epic run, and later enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak as a reward?

Philadelphia’s affordability (especially compared to other East Coast cities) is just one of many reasons it is among Wanderu’s best destinations for college students. Another reason is how much there is to do! Early American history takes precedence at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while museums abound on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sometimes called the most artistic mile in the city. Head to Reading Terminal Market to fuel up for a night hitting the bars, clubs, and live music joints that line South Street.

Philadelphia is a major hub for both Greyhound and Amtrak, and its 30th Street Station is one of the busiest stations in the country. The plentitude of ground travel and the nearby Philadelphia International Airport make this exciting city very easily accessible, even on a budget.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

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 Philadelphia?

PHLTTH-0 - PHLTTH-0.jpg

Image credit: Ben Schumin

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Philadelphia has one train station.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

  • 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Get around town with Moovit

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