Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Charleston
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Chicago to Charleston. Traveling by train from Chicago to Charleston usually takes 13 hours and 36 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 400 mi (643 km) |
| Fastest train | 13h 36m |
| Lowest price | $78.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Cardinal |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Chicago to Charleston Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Charleston?
There are usually 5 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Charleston.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$120.71 | Avg. Price$99.89Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips1 | Daily Trips5 |
Duration | Duration13h 36mFaster | Duration14h 37m |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Charleston:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Charleston?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Charleston was $78.00. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $91.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Charleston by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Charleston will cost between $61 and $129. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Charleston by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Charleston often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $76. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Charleston during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $340 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Charleston on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about $91.00 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Charleston?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Charleston, including Amtrak Cardinal. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cardinal | 1 | 13h 36m | $120.71 |
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 Charleston per day, with an average trip length of 13 hours and 36 minutes.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Charleston
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Charleston with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains. You can also take a train for your return trip from Charleston to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Charleston for $65.
TRIPS PER DAY
1
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Chicago and Charleston is approximately 400 miles, or 643 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 36 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)
400
DISTANCE (KM)
643
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 5:55pm and arrives in Charleston around 13 hours later.
EARLIEST TRAIN
5:55pm
LATEST TRAIN
5:55pm
Trains from Chicago to Charleston 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Thursday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
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.
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 Charleston?
Main arrival station: 350 MacCorkle Ave SE
Charleston has one train station.
All train stations in Charleston:
- 350 MacCorkle Ave SE
Need a return trip from Charleston to Chicago?
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