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Detroit to Chicago train

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Detroit - Chicago Train Schedule

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Train Trip Information: Detroit to Chicago

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Detroit to Chicago. Traveling by train from Detroit to Chicago usually takes 5 hours and 19 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Wolverine train can make the trip in 5 hours and 6 minutes.

Distance237 mi (381 km)
Fastest train5h 6m
Lowest price$40.00
Trains per day3
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Wolverine
Train lines1

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Detroit to Chicago

(Based on 26 ratings and reviews)

4.5

5.0

Ronak

June 22, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Wolverine

Pros: The train was comfortable. Cons: Maybe have menus at the seats in a QR form or laminated copy. Could even have someone share or notify passengers where we can find food. We didn’t realize there was food on the train at all until the last 30 minutes. First time on the train in Michigan. Also wifi wasn’t working well.

5.0

Addison

May 1, 2023- Business

Amtrak Wolverine

Pros: I’m 6’5” and had no issues with leg room. Very clean train. Staff was great, and the ride was smooth. Thank you. Cons: N/A. Tips: N/A.

4.0

Sarah G

January 30, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Wolverine

Pros: Timely. Cons: Toilet could have been a bit tidier. No wifi nor warning of non-function.

4.0

Raghavendra

January 25, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Wolverine

Pros: Train was on time, no rush and clean. Cons: Train was at 6:20AM, have been asked to come 30 mins early but the station was opened only after 6AM. I was made to wait in cold for 15 mins. Tips: if you have an early morning train, know that the station is open only after 6AM.

5.0

Augustine

January 5, 2023- Regular commuter

Amtrak Wolverine

Pros: Just fine. Cons: Nothing as of now. Tips: Comfortable.

Detroit to Chicago Route Map

Detroit Chicago

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Detroit to Chicago was $42.27. This is an excellent price given the length of the route. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $14.92 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average prices by travel date

$75$50$25SepOct

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Detroit to Chicago will cost between $40 and $73. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Monthly average prices

$75$60$45$30$15ONDJFMAMJJAS
Ticket prices for the train from Detroit to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in May when the average ticket price is only $48. If you're thinking of traveling from Detroit to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $57 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

$75$60$45$30$153020100

By booking your train trip from Detroit to Chicago on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $14.92 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Detroit to Chicago?

Amtrak Wolverine is the one and only train line which connects Detroit to Chicago. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Wolverine35h 20m$50.91

  • The Amtrak Wolverine provides rail service from Chicago to Pontiac, Michigan, and offers 3 trips per day. Each train features amenities such as a cafe car and onboard WiFi. The average ticket price from Detroit to Chicago on the Wolverine is , but you can find deals for as low as $40.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.

Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.

Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.

The distance between Detroit and Chicago is approximately 237 miles, or 381 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 19 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 5 hours and 6 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.

Saturday is usually the day when trains are busiest, as many travelers take the train to enjoy the weekend in Chicago. If you are planning to travel on a Saturday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.

On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for train travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.

The earliest train departs Detroit at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 6:00pm. 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 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Detroit to Chicago.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Detroit.

City Information

Detroit

Often stigmatized as a dead city, Detroit is making a huge comeback, and it is fast becoming a hidden gem among travelers. Your first stop should be at the Detroit Institute of Art, the city’s foremost cultural destination. Featuring more than 100 galleries with artworks from masters such as Van Gogh or Diego Rivera, the museum offers tourists hours of artistic immersion and enjoyment. For those wishing to learn more about the history of Motown or Black American communities, the city’s Motown Museum and Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History will be top-tier destinations. Finally, don’t miss out on the chance to catch a performance at the lavish Fox Theater, a national landmark.

As Detroit is the birthplace of Coney dog, it would be a huge miss if you pass up the chance to try out this masterpiece. One of the locals’ favorite Coney dog establishments is Lafayette Coney Island. Detroit’s craft beer scene is also quite lively, and some famous local brands include Batch Brewing Company and Detroit Beer Co.

The principal bus terminal in the city is on Howard St, where travelers can catch buses run by Greyhound, Indian Trails or Barons Bus. You can also catch Amtrak trains at the train station in New Center, north of downtown Detroit. Detroit is served by Amtrak’s Wolverine line. The city’s main airport is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, which is located in nearby Romulus.

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 Detroit?

11 W Baltimore Ave - DETAMT-0

Image credit: JasonParis

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: 11 W Baltimore Ave

Detroit’s Amtrak station connects Motor City with the nation’s rail network via three daily trains on the Amtrak Wolverine, which runs from Chicago to Pontiac, Michigan. Bus service on Miller Transportation also operates from the Amtrak Station on 11 W Baltimore Avenue, and from the adjacent platform, travelers can connect to the QLine streetcar system. The station’s amenities include clean restrooms, vending machines, and onsite customer service staff. Thanks to its location in the New Center neighborhood, the Amtrak station is surrounded by various restaurants and is one block away from the historic landmark, Cadillac Place.

All train stations in Detroit:

  • 11 W Baltimore Ave

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

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

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