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Cheap train tickets from Lincoln to Chicago

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

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Lincoln to Chicago Train Schedule

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

There are usually 1 daily bus trips available from Lincoln to Chicago.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
$140.75
Avg. Price
$92.69
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
1
Daily Trips
2
Duration
Duration
13h 40m
Duration
14h 48m

Trip Summary

2 trains operate daily from Lincoln to Chicago. The train trip from Lincoln to Chicago is usually about 14 hours and 48 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can get you there in as little as 11 hours and 12 minutes.

Distance475 mi (764 km)
Fastest train11h 12m
Lowest price$56.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Lincoln to Chicago

(Based on 3 ratings and reviews)

4.3

4.0

Tayce

May 21, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: Seat was okay, the employees were super polite and helpful as far as keeping track of stops and making announcements. Appreciated the outlets for charging devices. Cons: Nothing really, the delays aren't really the fault of the company and they're pretty well communicated so it's hard to say how it could be fixed. Tips: I wouldn't go by train without a few hours of buffer for whatever you're travelling for due to delays, but can't beat the price compared to a flight. Bring snacks and plenty to occupy yourself with.

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

Over the past month, a train ticket between Lincoln, NE and Chicago, IL cost $82.72, on average. Booking your trip at least 28 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $71.67 more.

Average train ticket prices from Lincoln to Chicago by travel date

$120$80$40JanJan

For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Lincoln to Chicago will range from $74 to $110. If you're planning to travel by train to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Lincoln you can find in the next 7 days is $81. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.

Average train ticket prices from Lincoln to Chicago by month

$150$120$90$60$30FMAMJJASONDJ
Ticket prices for the train from Lincoln 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 $67. If you're thinking of traveling from Lincoln to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $138 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

$175$140$105$70$353020100

By booking your train trip from Lincoln to Chicago on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about $71.67 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Lincoln to Chicago?

2 train services operate from Lincoln to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak118h 24m$106.58
Amtrak California Zephyr111h 12m$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 1 Amtrak trains from Lincoln to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $63.

  • Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Lincoln to Chicago

The distance between Lincoln and Chicago is approximately 475 miles, or 764 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 14 hours and 48 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 11 hours and 12 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 from Lincoln 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.

The earliest train departs Lincoln at 3:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:00am. 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln.

City Information

Lincoln

Lincoln, NE, US - LNK-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and is known as Nebraska's political hub, culture center, and foodie haven. It's home to the Nebraska State Capitol, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and other historical attractions.

The Sunken Gardens is a top place to visit for outdoor fun, with lily ponds, themed gardens, and sculptures. Young families will enjoy visiting the Lincoln Children's Zoo, offering a zoo train and up-close animal encounters. On the University of Nebraska Campus, art lovers can check the Sheldon Museum of Art for its notable sculpture garden and American art collection.

As the capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is bustling with nightlife and many fun things to do. You can participate in different activities, from the Lincoln Escape Room and Zoo Bar to the Bourbon Theater and James Arthur Vineyards. The craft beer scene in Lincoln is bustling with taprooms, breweries, and bars. Zipline Brewing Co is one of the city's most popular craft artisan lagers and ales.

Amtrak provides train service to the city, while Jefferson Lines and Burlington Trailways offer buses. StarTran provides citywide transportation to those in Lincoln.

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 Lincoln?

Main departure station: 277 Pinnacle Arena Dr

There is one train station in Lincoln.

All train stations in Lincoln:

  • 277 Pinnacle Arena Dr

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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