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Trip Summary
There is usually just one train option from State College to Chicago per day. The average train journey from State College to Chicago takes 20 hours and 30 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 512 mi (824 km) |
| Fastest train | 20h 30m |
| Lowest price | $141.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from State College to Chicago?
Over the past month, a train ticket between State College and Chicago cost $141.00, on average. Since this route covers a considerable distance, tickets are typically a bit pricier than most train fares. Booking your trip at least 19 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $20.50 more.
Monthly avg. prices
Which train should you take from State College to Chicago?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects State College to Chicago. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 20h 30m | $156.16 |
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 1 Amtrak trains from State College to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $141.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between State College and Chicago is approximately 512 miles, or 824 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 20 hours and 30 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 departing from State College to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Thursday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Thursday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Tuesday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves State College at 1:00pm and arrives in Chicago around 20 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to State College.
City Information
State College
State College is a college town, hence the name. It is home to Penn State University, one of the largest universities in the United States. As expected, most of the businesses in the area are there to serve the academic clientele, particularly the professors and students living in the area (if you’re one of them, you might want to check out our recommended destinations for college students).
One of the most popular events in State College is the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, which draws over a hundred thousand visitors each year. Aside from Penn State University, the city's major attractions are The Arboretum and the Beaver Stadium.
If you're into culture, history, and the arts, you should check out the Palmer Museum of Art, Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania, and Centre County Historical Society.
While at State College, be sure to try out the waffles at The Original Waffle Shop. Other good places to dine are the Berkey Creamery, Allen Street Grill, and Federal Taphouse. Finally, for some good drinks, stop by Otto's Pub and Brewery.
Getting around State College is a breeze. The local airport, University Park Airport, is a mere 5 miles away from campus. In addition, Greyhound, Fullington Trailways, and Amtrak Thruway run regularly scheduled bus services from State College to Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, New York City, and beyond.
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 State College?
Main departure station: Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
The State College Bus Terminal, commonly referred to as the Greyhound station, is on the southern part of the Penn State University campus. The stop has a bit of covering for waiting passengers, but otherwise, you'll want to find most food and amenities elsewhere on campus. Although there is an adorable photo stand-in for anyone wanting a cute family photo while waiting for your bus to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, or anywhere else in Pennsylvania and beyond.
All train stations in State College:
Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
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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