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Cheap train tickets from Detroit Lakes to Chicago
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Detroit Lakes to Chicago. Traveling by train from Detroit Lakes to Chicago usually takes 13 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 12 hours and 18 minutes.
- Distance
- 530 mi (853 km)
- Fastest train
- 12h 18m
- Lowest price
- TRY 7,759.32
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Empire Builder
- Train lines
- 2
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Detroit Lakes to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Detroit Lakes to Chicago?
There are usually 1 daily bus trips available from Detroit Lakes to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceTRY 12,389.54 | Avg. PriceTRY 8,735.34Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips1 |
Duration | Duration13h 17mFaster | Duration17h 40m |
There are several train options that can take you from Detroit Lakes to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Detroit Lakes to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Detroit Lakes to Chicago was TRY 9,186.74. 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 22 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around TRY 6,405.10 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Detroit Lakes to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Detroit Lakes to Chicago will cost between TRY 5,758 and TRY 7,662. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Detroit Lakes to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Detroit Lakes to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in April when the average ticket price is only TRY 7,418. If you're thinking of traveling from Detroit Lakes to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of TRY 14,494 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 Detroit Lakes to Chicago on Wanderu at least 22 days ahead of time, you can save about TRY 6,405.10 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Detroit Lakes to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Detroit Lakes to Chicago. Amtrak Empire Builder 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 | 14h 54m | TRY 9,483.62 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 12h 18m | TRY 14,132.70 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Detroit Lakes to Chicago
There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Chicago. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Detroit Lakes. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Detroit Lakes to Chicago for TRY 8,735.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
2
The distance between Detroit Lakes and Chicago is approximately 530 miles, or 853 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 18 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)
530
Distance (km)
853
The earliest train departs Detroit Lakes at 4:27am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:27am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
4:27am
Last train
4:27am
Trains from Detroit Lakes to Chicago are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Monday
Least crowded
Sunday
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 Detroit Lakes?
Main departure station: White Earth Transit Station
There is one train station in Detroit Lakes.
All train stations in Detroit Lakes:
- White Earth Transit Station
Where is the train station 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 Detroit Lakes?
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