Cheap train tickets from St Paul to Chicago
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 6 daily train trips available from St Paul to Chicago. Traveling by train from St Paul to Chicago usually takes 8 hours and 46 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Borealis train can make the trip in 7 hours and 32 minutes.
| Distance | 347 mi (558 km) |
| Fastest train | 7h 32m |
| Lowest price | $44.00 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 3 |
Millions of travelers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travelers are saying about Wanderu:
Download our free app!
Find, compare & book buses and trains on the go with the Wanderu app.
4.8 Rating
5k Reviews
4.5 Rating
4.8k Reviews
St Paul to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from St Paul to Chicago?
There are usually 17 daily bus trips available from St Paul to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$205.84 | Avg. Price$118.54Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips6 | Daily Trips17 |
Duration | Duration8h 46mFaster | Duration11h 22m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from St Paul to Chicago (Based on 10 ratings and reviews)
4.0
5.0
5.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
There are several train options that can take you from St Paul to Chicago:
- Amtrak: 3 daily trains from $59
- Amtrak Empire Builder: 2 daily trains from $68
- Amtrak Borealis: 1 daily train from $44
What is the price of a train ticket from St Paul to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from St Paul to Chicago was $100.31. 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 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $173.71 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from St Paul to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from St Paul to Chicago will cost between $71 and $223. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from St Paul to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from St Paul to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only $99. If you're thinking of traveling from St Paul to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $163 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 St Paul to Chicago on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $173.71 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from St Paul to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from St Paul to Chicago, including Amtrak, Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak Borealis. Here is what you should know about the 3 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 10h 5m | $151.97 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 7h 55m | $291.46 |
| Amtrak Borealis | 1 | 7h 52m | $116.90 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from St Paul to Chicago every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $59.
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.
Amtrak Borealis train tickets from St Paul to Chicago start from $44, and on average cost $116.90. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Borealis schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Borealis in St Paul leaves from Union Depot. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From St Paul to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Borealis takes 7 hours and 52 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Borealis offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 7 hours and 32 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Borealis scheduled trip per day, which will cost $44 for a one-way weekend reservation from St Paul.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from St Paul to Chicago
There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. 3 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 St Paul. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from St Paul to Chicago for $51.
TRIPS PER DAY
6
DIRECT TRIPS
3
The distance between St Paul and Chicago is approximately 347 miles, or 558 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 32 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)
347
DISTANCE (KM)
558
The earliest train departs St Paul at 8:50am while the last train of the day leaves at 11:49am. 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
8:50am
LATEST TRAIN
11:49am
Trains from St Paul to Chicago are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
City Information
St Paul
Saint Paul is the capital of Minnesota, and is one of the Twin Cities, along with its neighbor across the Mississippi River, Minneapolis. As the seat of Minnesota's government, Saint Paul offers historic and cultural attractions which represent both the state and the American Midwest as a whole.
For a comprehensive introduction to the region's history, start your trip at the Minnesota History Center, just down the street from the grounds of the State Capitol building. There are museums in Saint Paul for all types of interests, including the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Schubert Club Musical Instrument Museum. For an extra dash of Saint Paul history, take a stroll down Summit Avenue, a stylish street of drool-worthy Victorian houses and mansions, including the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald.
If you're brave enough to visit Saint Paul during the freezing winters, you'll be rewarded with the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, a yearly event where you can explore ice palaces, watch live ice sculpting, and compete in city-wide scavenger hunts. Saint Paul is also one of the country's best cities for craft beer, so save time to taste some local ales or even brew your own beer at Vine Park Brewing Co.
Saint Paul is a hub for travel in the Midwest thanks in part to Amtrak's Empire Builder train service which stops at Saint Paul Union Depot. Bus service from stations throughout town and nearby Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport make it easy to travel to and from this saintly city.
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 St Paul?
Main departure station: Union Depot
Located right on the banks of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul’s Lowertown neighborhood, Union Depot has a remarkable history dating back to 1881. It remains the major transport hub of Saint Paul, as well as the designated station for Amtrak service in the Twin Cities. Besides the long-haul Empire Builder train, the station serves Jefferson Lines and Greyhound intercity buses and connects to local public transit. Within the Union Depot complex, you’ll find a coffee shop, restaurant, bike shop, rental car agency, and can even join a public tour to admire the architecture and learn about the station’s storied past.
All train stations in St Paul:
- Union Depot
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 St Paul?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from St Paul
Continue by train from Chicago
Check out these popular routes
- Boston to New Rochelle Train$75+
- Philadelphia to Washington, DC Train$65+
- New York to Baltimore Train$100+
- Philadelphia to New Rochelle Train$47+
- Philadelphia to New York Train$54+
- Washington, DC to New Rochelle Train$91+
- Washington, DC to New York Train$110+
- New York to Philadelphia Train$57+
- Philadelphia to Hudson Train$80+
Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu's simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.