Cheap train tickets from Sandusky to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Sandusky to Chicago. Traveling by train from Sandusky to Chicago usually takes 5 hours and 54 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 5 hours and 43 minutes.
| Distance | 256 mi (412 km) |
| Fastest train | 5h 43m |
| Lowest price | $63.00 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Sandusky to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Sandusky to Chicago?
There are usually 4 daily bus trips available from Sandusky to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$111.09 | Avg. Price$63.53Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips4 |
Duration | Duration5h 54mFaster | Duration9h 22m |

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Sandusky to Chicago (Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
4.0
May 23, 2019 - Vacation
Amtrak Capitol LimitedThere are several train options that can take you from Sandusky to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Sandusky to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Sandusky to Chicago was $72.50. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 21 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $102.64 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Sandusky to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Sandusky to Chicago will cost between $37 and $98. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Sandusky to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Sandusky to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $76. If you're thinking of traveling from Sandusky to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $117 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Sandusky to Chicago on Wanderu at least 21 days ahead of time, you can save about $102.64 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Sandusky to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Sandusky 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 | 5h 59m | $120.14 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 5h 43m | $91.35 |
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 1200 N Depot St in Sandusky and arrives at Union Station in Chicago. The route takes about 5 hours and 59 minutes and ticket prices start at $52.
Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Sandusky to Chicago start from $63, and on average cost $91.35. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Floridian schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Floridian in Sandusky leaves from 1200 N Depot St. And in Chicago trains arrive at Union Station.
From Sandusky to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 5 hours and 43 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 $63 for a one-way weekend reservation from Sandusky.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Sandusky to Chicago
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Sandusky to Chicago. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Sandusky. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Sandusky to Chicago for $42.
TRIPS PER DAY
3
DIRECT TRIPS
3
The distance between Sandusky and Chicago is approximately 256 miles, or 412 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 54 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 5 hours and 43 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)
256
DISTANCE (KM)
412
The earliest train departs Sandusky at 4:02am while the last train of the day leaves at 5:13am. 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
4:02am
LATEST TRAIN
5:13am
Trains from Sandusky to Chicago are the most crowded on Monday. 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
Monday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
City Information
Sandusky

Sandusky is a city in Ohio on Lake Erie and Sandusky Bay, about 70 miles from Cleveland. Sandusky appeals to art and culture lovers, with sites like the Museum of Sandusky offering exhibits on shipwrecks, boatbuilding, and ice harvesting. The city is known for having many family attractions, including wildlife, water, and amusement parks, including the Top Thrill Dragster and Maverick. The famous Sprawling Cedar Point Park has many roller coasters, while the Merry-Go-Round Museum is known for its working vintage carousel and wooden animals.
Sandusky is known for having fresh wine from local vineyards, served in the wineries in the city. Although the craft beer scene is young, Sandusky features a vibrant nightlife, from taphouses and sports bars to nightclubs and taverns. Even during the day, the downtown area offers different local shops and great restaurants to visit.
Trains and buses head to Sandusky from various cities and offer daily scheduled trips. Amtrak serves Sandusky for trains and Jefferson Lines for the bus routes. The Sandusky Transit System provides public transportation within the city.
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 Sandusky?
Main departure station: 1200 N Depot St
There is one train station in Sandusky.
All train stations in Sandusky:
- 1200 N Depot St
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 Sandusky?
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