Cheap train tickets from Cleveland to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Cleveland to Chicago. Traveling by train from Cleveland to Chicago usually takes 7 hours and 2 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 6 hours and 46 minutes.
| Distance | 307 mi (495 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 46m |
| Lowest price | $73.00 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Cleveland to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Cleveland to Chicago?
There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Cleveland to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$123.15 | Avg. Price$77.61Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration7h 2mFaster | Duration9h 32m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Cleveland to Chicago (Based on 6 ratings and reviews)
5.0
4.0
December 22, 2022 - Solo travel
Amtrak Capitol Limited5.0
May 10, 2022 - Solo travel
Amtrak Capitol Limited4.0
January 25, 2022 - Visiting family
Amtrak Capitol Limited4.0
August 23, 2019 - Visiting friends
Amtrak Capitol LimitedThere are several train options that can take you from Cleveland to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Cleveland to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Cleveland to Chicago was $90.13. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $199.89 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Cleveland to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Cleveland to Chicago will cost between $66 and $110. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Cleveland to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Cleveland to Chicago 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 $82. If you're thinking of traveling from Cleveland to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $124 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 Cleveland to Chicago on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $199.89 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Cleveland to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Cleveland to Chicago, including Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Floridian. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 7h 9m | $132.25 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 6h 46m | $103.28 |
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 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway in Cleveland and arrives at Union Station in Chicago. The route takes about 7 hours and 9 minutes and ticket prices start at $63.
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Cleveland to Chicago start from $74, and on average cost $103.28. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Floridian schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Floridian in Cleveland leaves from 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From Cleveland to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 6 hours and 46 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Floridian offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 6 hours and 46 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Chicago on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost $74 for a one-way weekend reservation from Cleveland.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Cleveland to Chicago
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Cleveland to Chicago. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Cleveland. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Cleveland to Chicago for $48.
TRIPS PER DAY
3
DIRECT TRIPS
3
The distance between Cleveland and Chicago is approximately 307 miles, or 495 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 2 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 46 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)
307
DISTANCE (KM)
495
The earliest train departs Cleveland at 2:59am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:03am. 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
2:59am
LATEST TRAIN
4:03am
Trains from Cleveland to Chicago are the most crowded on Friday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Friday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
City Information
Cleveland
An industrial powerhouse in the past eras, Cleveland offers to the world more than just LeBron James and Halle Berry. Unlike most other big cities, Cleveland still retains its quaint small-town feel, especially as you wander around the Cleveland Metroparks, a system of 21,000 acres of pure nature. For nature lovers, the Cleveland Botanical Garden provides a treasure trove of botanical knowledge and rare plant species. Another must-not-miss spot is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which features exhibitions on the greatest legends such as Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, etc.
For foodies, Cleveland truly is a mecca. The city boasts an array of top chefs and high-class establishments that can bring you an unforgettable experience. For authentic American classics, Sylman’s Deli has everything you need. If you are looking for a more diverse option, head to Momocho for some mouth-watering Mexican indulgences.
Cleveland’s main bus station is located just behind the Playhouse Square Parking Garage in the Theater District. The local Amtrak train station is also located downtown not too far from the bus station. The principal airport in the city is the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which sits 9 miles southwest of Downtown and is located next to the Glenn Research Center.
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 Cleveland?
Main departure station: 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway
The Amtrak Station on Cleveland Memorial Shoreway is directly adjacent to the NFL Browns’ FirstEnergy Stadium and the expansive Lake Erie beyond. Pro tip: sit on the North side of the train to catch a glimpse of the lake on your way out of town! This station is a stop for Amtrak’s Capitol Limited line from DC to Chicago and the Lake Shore Limited line from Chicago to New York City or Boston. Cleveland’s local Rapid Transit Waterfront Line also serves this station for service within the city. In the immediate area surrounding the station, you’ll find the Great Lakes Science Center, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, and several hotels and restaurants for convenience during your travels.
All train stations in Cleveland:
- 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway
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 Cleveland?
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