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Cleveland to Chicago train

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Cleveland - Chicago Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

3 trains operate daily from Cleveland to Chicago. The train trip from Cleveland to Chicago is usually about 7 hours and 1 minute long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Capitol Limited train can get you there in as little as 6 hours and 46 minutes.

Distance307 mi (495 km)
Fastest train6h 46m
Lowest price$49.00
Trains per day3
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Cleveland to Chicago

(Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.3

5.0

Paul

February 9, 2024- Visiting friends

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Being able to afford the roomette and having some privacy. Cons: Things could have been cleaner. Tips: Research the ins and outs of travel.

4.0

Shoshana

December 22, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: Relatively comfortable. Cons: No bathrooms on the second floor.

5.0

Robert

May 10, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: Exceeded my expectations. Safe, clean and comfortable. The staff professional and skilled. Overall the other travelers polite and thoughtful. Thank you. Cons: Nothing comes to mind this moment. Tips: Continue being thoughtful and polite.

4.0

Elaine

January 25, 2022- Visiting family

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: First train ride in 40 years. At my age a step stool to get in train was scary and bathrooms not handicap accessible but overall much better than driving. Cons: See abive. Tips: Travel light.

4.0

Jessica

August 23, 2019- Visiting friends

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: The seats are spacious and comfortable!!! Cons: The train needs updated. Tips: They keep it cool so bring a blanket.

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

The average price for a train ticket from Cleveland to Chicago is $72.43, By booking your trip at least 29 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $33.53 more.

Average prices by travel date

$135$90$45MarApr

The average cost of a one-way train trip from Cleveland to Chicago is expected to fluctuate between $57 and $125 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Cleveland is $76.

Monthly avg. prices

$100$80$60$40$20AMJJASONDJFM
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 $71. If you're thinking of traveling from Cleveland to Chicago during May, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $90 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in May, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$125$100$75$50$253020100

Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Cleveland to Chicago. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 29 days before departure, you can save around $33.53. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!

Which train should you take from Cleveland to Chicago?

2 train services operate from Cleveland to Chicago. Amtrak Lake Shore Limited usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Capitol Limited16h 46m$83.72
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited27h 9m$84.71
  • Passing through seven states, 16 cities, and various National Parks, Amtrak Capitol Limited connects Washington D.C. and Chicago, on 750 miles of railroad. Taking over 17 hours for a complete trip, these trains offer various overnight accommodations and feature panoramic observation cars where passengers can enjoy exceptional scenery. The trains include various options for food; however, WiFi connectivity is not available onboard due to the rural nature of the route.

  • 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 Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago. The route takes about 7 hours and 9 minutes and ticket prices start at $49.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 1 minute, 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.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Cleveland to Chicago on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Cleveland at 2:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00am. 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 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.

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 is the train station in Cleveland?

200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway  - CLEAMT-0

Image credit: Ted Eytan

Link to image attribution

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 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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