Cheap train tickets from Chicago to State College
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Chicago to State College. Traveling by train from Chicago to State College usually takes 18 hours and 10 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 512 mi (824 km) |
| Fastest train | 18h 10m |
| Lowest price | $186.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Chicago to State College Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to State College?
There are usually 6 daily bus trips available from Chicago to State College.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$212.55 | Avg. Price$111.58Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips1 | Daily Trips6 |
Duration | Duration18h 10m | Duration18h 8mFaster |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to State College:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to State College?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to State College was $186.00. 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 9 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $60.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to State College by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to State College will cost between $140 and $242. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to State College by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to State College 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 $163. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to State College during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $235 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to State College on Wanderu at least 9 days ahead of time, you can save about $60.00 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to State College?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to State College, including Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 18h 10m | $212.55 |
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to State College
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 State College to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to State College for $57.
TRIPS PER DAY
1
DIRECT TRIPS
0
The distance between Chicago and State College is approximately 512 miles, or 824 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 18 hours and 10 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)
512
DISTANCE (KM)
824
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 6:40pm and arrives in State College around 18 hours later.
EARLIEST TRAIN
6:40pm
LATEST TRAIN
6:40pm
Trains from Chicago to State College are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Wednesday
LEAST CROWDED
Thursday
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.
State College
State College is a college town, hence the name. It is home to Penn State University, one of the largest universities in the United States. As expected, most of the businesses in the area are there to serve the academic clientele, particularly the professors and students living in the area (if you’re one of them, you might want to check out our recommended destinations for college students).
One of the most popular events in State College is the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, which draws over a hundred thousand visitors each year. Aside from Penn State University, the city's major attractions are The Arboretum and the Beaver Stadium.
If you're into culture, history, and the arts, you should check out the Palmer Museum of Art, Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania, and Centre County Historical Society.
While at State College, be sure to try out the waffles at The Original Waffle Shop. Other good places to dine are the Berkey Creamery, Allen Street Grill, and Federal Taphouse. Finally, for some good drinks, stop by Otto's Pub and Brewery.
Getting around State College is a breeze. The local airport, University Park Airport, is a mere 5 miles away from campus. In addition, Greyhound, Fullington Trailways, and Amtrak Thruway run regularly scheduled bus services from State College to Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, New York City, and beyond.
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 State College?
Main arrival station: Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
The State College Bus Terminal, commonly referred to as the Greyhound station, is on the southern part of the Penn State University campus. The stop has a bit of covering for waiting passengers, but otherwise, you'll want to find most food and amenities elsewhere on campus. Although there is an adorable photo stand-in for anyone wanting a cute family photo while waiting for your bus to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, or anywhere else in Pennsylvania and beyond.
All train stations in State College:
- Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
Need a return trip from State College to Chicago?
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