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Cheap train tickets from Topeka to Chicago

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Topeka to Chicago Train Schedule

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

There are usually 6 daily bus trips available from Topeka to Chicago.

Bus
Train

Avg. Price

Avg. Price

$108.66

Avg. Price

$103.00

Daily Trips

Daily Trips

6

Daily Trips

1

Duration

Duration

15h 44m

Duration

14h 25m

Search BusesSearch Trains

Trip Summary

You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Topeka and Chicago. The average train journey from Topeka to Chicago takes 14 hours and 25 minutes, but some Amtrak Southwest Chief train trips are as short as 10 hours and 17 minutes.

Distance466 mi (750 km)
Fastest train10h 17m
Lowest price$65.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Topeka to Chicago

(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)

5.0

5.0

Melanie

July 19, 2023- Business

Amtrak Southwest Chief

Pros: It was a fantastic train ride. I am disabled and have trouble walking. I had plenty of room in the bottom of the train. I could get up and move when I started to hurt and the restroom was very close. Cons: Being on time. We were what I would consider seriously late both ways. Tips: The train is certainly the way to travel!!

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Topeka to Chicago was $90.33. 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 $37.83 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Monthly avg. prices

$150$120$90$60$30DJFMAMJJASON
Mark your calendar for February if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Topeka to Chicago. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of $71. If you're planning a trip from Topeka to Chicago during August, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about $145 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Which train should you take from Topeka to Chicago?

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

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak216h 38m$121.41
Amtrak Southwest Chief110h 17m$104.06
  • 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 2 Amtrak trains from Topeka to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $79.

  • The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Topeka to Chicago in about 10 hours and 17 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Topeka to Chicago

The distance between Topeka and Chicago is approximately 466 miles, or 750 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 14 hours and 25 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 10 hours and 17 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 Topeka to Chicago on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Topeka at 4:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00am. 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Topeka to Chicago. 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 Chicago to Topeka.

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 is the train station in Topeka?

Main departure station: 500 SE Holliday Pl

There is one train station in Topeka.

All train stations in Topeka:

  • 500 SE Holliday Pl

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival 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

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