Cheap train tickets from Waterloo to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Waterloo to Chicago. Traveling by train from Waterloo to Chicago usually takes 3 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 3 hours and 9 minutes.
| Distance | 138 mi (222 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 9m |
| Lowest price | $43.00 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 2 |
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4.8 Rating
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4.5 Rating
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Waterloo to Chicago Train Schedule
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Waterloo to Chicago (Based on 12 ratings and reviews)
5.0
December 13, 2025 - Solo travel
Amtrak Floridian4.0
August 31, 2025 - Couples trip
Amtrak5.0
January 29, 2023 - Visiting family
Amtrak Capitol Limited5.0
December 1, 2022 - Visiting friends
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
October 14, 2022 - Vacation
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
October 14, 2022 - Vacation
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
July 30, 2022 - Couples trip
Amtrak Capitol Limited5.0
May 28, 2022 - Vacation
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
November 27, 2021 - Solo travel
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
June 27, 2020 - Solo travel
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
September 1, 2019 - Vacation
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited5.0
August 6, 2019 - Visiting friends
Amtrak Lake Shore LimitedThere are several train options that can take you from Waterloo to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Waterloo to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Waterloo to Chicago was $49.00. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 21 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $132.71 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Waterloo to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Waterloo to Chicago will cost between $25 and $76. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Waterloo to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Waterloo to Chicago 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 $47. If you're thinking of traveling from Waterloo to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $84 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 Waterloo to Chicago on Wanderu at least 21 days ahead of time, you can save about $132.71 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Waterloo to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Waterloo to Chicago, including Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Floridian. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 3h 21m | $94.25 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 3h 9m | $63.19 |
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 485 West Van Vleek Street in Waterloo and arrives at Union Station in Chicago. The route takes about 3 hours and 21 minutes and ticket prices start at $42.
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Waterloo to Chicago start from $49, and on average cost $63.19. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Floridian schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Floridian in Waterloo leaves from 485 West Van Vleek Street. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From Waterloo to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 3 hours and 9 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost $49 for a one-way weekend reservation from Waterloo.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Waterloo to Chicago
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Waterloo to Chicago. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Waterloo.
TRIPS PER DAY
3
DIRECT TRIPS
3
The distance between Waterloo and Chicago is approximately 138 miles, or 222 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 9 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)
138
DISTANCE (KM)
222
The earliest train departs Waterloo at 6:36am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:51am. 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
6:36am
LATEST TRAIN
7:51am
Trains from Waterloo to Chicago are the most crowded on Friday. 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
Friday
LEAST CROWDED
Monday
City Information
Waterloo
Waterloo is a town in Indiana, getting its unique name from the city of the same name in Belgium. Despite being a small town, it offers a wide range of activities for families and sports lovers. You can take golf classes at the Bridgewater Golf Club or go skating with the family at the Skatin' Station. The family-friendly town is home to the Ft Wayne Children's Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. During your visit, some historical markers to check out include the Immaculate Conception Church and St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased in Waterloo, as the town is home to different specialty shops and boutiques. You can also visit when the De Kalb County Fair is in town, offering special events and auctions. The Summer Parade and Festival is an annual highlight in Waterloo, offering delicious food, activities for all ages, and fun presentations.
Waterloo is known as the crossroads of Northeastern Indiana, as it connects several major transportation routes. The travel hub has routes like I-69, US G, and IN 427 and is the only Amtrak passenger train stop in northeast Indiana.
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 Waterloo?
Main departure station: 485 West Van Vleek Street
There is one train station in Waterloo.
All train stations in Waterloo:
- 485 West Van Vleek Street
Where does the train arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival 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
Need a return trip from Chicago to Waterloo?
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