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Trip Summary
5 trains operate daily from Trenton to Chicago. The train trip from Trenton to Chicago is usually about 22 hours and 33 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 21 hours and 16 minutes.
| Distance | 681 mi (1095 km) |
| Fastest train | 21h 16m |
| Lowest price | $139.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Trenton to Chicago?
Over the past month, a train ticket between Trenton and Chicago cost $194.33, on average. Since this route covers a considerable distance, tickets are typically a bit pricier than most train fares. Booking your trip at least 18 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $88.87 more.
Monthly avg. prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Trenton to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 18 days in advance. That way, you’ll save $88.87 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Trenton to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Trenton to Chicago. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 5 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 5 | 22h 13m | $253.75 |
| Amtrak Cardinal | 1 | 1d 3h 18m | $436.13 |
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 5 Amtrak trains from Trenton to Chicago every day, as well as 5 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $116.
The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Trenton to Chicago per day, with an average trip length of 27 hours and 18 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Trenton and Chicago is approximately 681 miles, or 1095 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 22 hours and 33 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 21 hours and 16 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 Trenton to Chicago are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Trenton at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 1:00pm. 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 5 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Trenton to Chicago. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Trenton.
City Information
Trenton
Trenton is New Jersey's capital, and for a period of two months in 1784, it was the capital of the United States. The city is located between New York City and Philadelphia and is separated from the state of Pennsylvania by the Delaware River. One of the most recognizable landmarks in Trenton is the New Jersey State House, constructed in 1792. It is the third-oldest state house in the country, and tours of the building share New Jersey history. For more New Jersey history in an even older building, visit the William Trent House, built in 1719. The founder of Trenton, William Trent, and three governors have occupied the house in its long history. It is now a museum offering tours and insight into early American life.
Cadwalader Park is a 100-acre park in Trenton, planned by the same man who designed Central Park in New York City. Enjoy the park's grassy lawns, quiet stream, walking paths, and the Ellarslie Mansion at the center, now a museum of fine art.
Trenton's primary train station is the Trenton Transit Center, where Amtrak trains connect to other cities in the Mid-Atlantic. The closest airport to the city is the Trenton-Mercer Airport, but international flights arrive at Newark Liberty International Airport.
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 Trenton?
Main departure station: 72 S Clinton Ave
There is one train station in Trenton.
All train stations in Trenton:
72 S Clinton Ave
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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