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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Springfield to Chicago. Traveling by train from Springfield to Chicago usually takes 24 hours and 5 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 19 hours and 46 minutes.
| Distance | 772 mi (1242 km) |
| Fastest train | 19h 46m |
| Lowest price | $148.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Springfield to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Springfield, MA to Chicago, IL was $185.00. 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 18 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $112.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from Springfield to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Springfield 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:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 1d 3h 3m | $325.94 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 1 | 19h 46m | $215.71 |
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 Springfield to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $222.
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 Union Station Transportation Center in Springfield and arrives at Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago. The route takes about 19 hours and 46 minutes and ticket prices start at $148.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Springfield and Chicago is approximately 772 miles, or 1242 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 24 hours and 5 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 19 hours and 46 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.
Trains departing from Springfield to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Saturday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Saturday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Monday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Springfield at 4:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Springfield twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Chicago faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Springfield.
City Information
Springfield
Image credit: Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos
Link to image attributionFounded in 1636 as the first Springfield in North America, this city sits on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River in Massachusetts. Perhaps best known as the birthplace of basketball, Springfield is a mecca for b-ball fans. Visitors can enjoy three levels of exhibits and interactive contests at the famous Basketball Hall of Fame.
Along with basketball, Springfield was also the birthplace of the immensely popular children's author, Theodore Geisel—more commonly known as Dr. Seuss. Enjoy a walk through the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden to see many of his most famous characters immortalized in bronze. History buffs should head to the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, highlighting the town's important role as an arsenal during the Revolutionary War.
Springfield's central location between major tourist destinations like NYC, Boston, and the Berkshires means that it can be reached easily by most modes of transport. The city is served by several Amtrak lines and Peter Pan and Greyhound buses. Bradley International Airport and Westover Metropolitan Airport are also closeby, with frequent flights from destinations around the country.
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 Springfield?
Image credit: Katherine Johnson
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Union Station Transportation Center
Union Station is an iconic landmark in Springfield that just finished renovations in 2016—which means you get the historic charm plus modern AC. Original features include the impressive entrance clock, wooden train schedule, and terrazzo flooring. You might stop at Union Station on an Amtrak itinerary via the Northeast Regional line. Or, if you're commuting locally, you may transfer to the CTrail Hartford Line. Greyhound and Peter Pan provide bus services to the area as well, with connections across New England. Since the station operates with so many carriers, the waiting area has plenty of space and seating, ticket kiosks, and plenty of snack options like Dunkin Donuts and Subway.
All train stations in Springfield:
Union Station Transportation Center
Where is the train station in Chicago?
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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