Cheap train tickets from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL. Traveling by train from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL usually takes 16 hours and 8 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 16 hours and 7 minutes.

Distance: 711 mi (1145 km)
Fastest train: 16h 7m
Lowest price: CHF 105.23
Trains per day: 2
Most frequent service: Amtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines: 1

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Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL Train Schedule

There are several train options that can take you from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL:

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited tickets: CHF 105 one-way

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL?

In the last month, train tickets from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL cost about CHF 105 when booked at the cheapest time. 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 16 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 89.03 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL will cost between CHF 89 and CHF 223. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL by month

Ticket prices for the train from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only CHF 139. If you're thinking of traveling from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 357 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 89.03 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL?

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited	2	16h 8m	CHF 149.47

The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Albany-Rensselaer Train Station in Rensselaer, NY and arrives at Union Station in Chicago, IL. The route takes about 16 hours and 8 minutes and ticket prices start at CHF 105.23.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL

Trains leave the station in Rensselaer, NY twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago, IL with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago, IL to Rensselaer, NY.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Rensselaer, NY and Chicago, IL is approximately 711 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 16 hours and 8 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 16 hours and 7 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)

711

Distance (km)

1145

The earliest train departs Rensselaer, NY at 7:05 PM while the last train of the day leaves at 7:05 PM. 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

7:05pm

Last train

7:05pm

Trains from Rensselaer, NY to Chicago, IL are the most crowded on Thursday. 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

Thursday

Least crowded

Sunday

City Information

Rensselaer

Rensselaer is a small town located just across the Hudson River from the New York State capital, Albany. The Amtrak train station that serves Albany is actually located within Rensselaer, so many commuters and vacationers alike will pass through the city when traveling in the Hudson River Valley.

Rensselaer itself boasts a rich industrial tradition, and it was known as a major railway hub in the 19th century. One of the appealing local attractions in town is the Crailo State Historic Site. The site is a manor house, built in 1707, that today serves as a museum dedicated to the culture of Dutch colonists in New York State. More museums, activities, parks, and sights are waiting just across the river in Albany for the curious traveler.

The city of Rensselaer is an important transportation hub for Amtrak trains throughout the region, which include the Amtrak Empire Service, Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Ethan Allen Express. Between these services, Amtrak connects Rensselaer to New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and beyond. The nearest airport to the city is the Albany 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 Rensselaer, NY?

Main departure station: Albany-Rensselaer Train Station

There is one train station in Rensselaer, NY.

All train stations in Rensselaer, NY:

Albany-Rensselaer Train Station

Where is the train station in Chicago, IL?

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, IL:

Union Station

Need a return trip from Chicago, IL to Rensselaer, NY?

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