Cheap train tickets from Leavenworth to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Leavenworth to Chicago. Traveling by train from Leavenworth to Chicago usually takes 44 hours and 49 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 42 hours and 28 minutes.
| Distance | 1655 mi (2664 km) |
| Fastest train | 42h 28m |
| Lowest price | $297.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Leavenworth to Chicago Train Schedule

There are several train options that can take you from Leavenworth to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Leavenworth to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Leavenworth to Chicago was $318.67. Considering the distance between Leavenworth and Chicago, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. 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 $1,376.83 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Leavenworth to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Leavenworth to Chicago will cost between $216 and $1516. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Leavenworth to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Leavenworth 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 $294. If you're thinking of traveling from Leavenworth to Chicago during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $652 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 Leavenworth to Chicago on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time, you can save about $1,376.83 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Leavenworth to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Leavenworth to Chicago, including Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 42h 28m | $1,072.20 |
| Amtrak | 3 | 48h 45m | $429.00 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Leavenworth to Chicago
The distance between Leavenworth and Chicago is approximately 1655 miles, or 2664 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 44 hours and 49 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 42 hours and 28 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)
1655
DISTANCE (KM)
2664
The earliest train departs Leavenworth at 12:10pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:17pm. 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
12:10pm
LATEST TRAIN
8:17pm
Trains from Leavenworth to Chicago are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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
Wednesday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
City Information
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a truly unique destination since it looks exactly like a Bavarian mountain village. Most buildings are alpine-style lodges, and restaurants and cafes serve delicious German-style beer and food. The city is a year-round tourist destination not just for its German-themed events such as Oktoberfest, but also for its gorgeous outdoor scene. Visitors can explore a reindeer farm, hike in Icicle Gorge, wander through Eagle Creek, and enjoy the Leavenworth Ski Hill in winter. There's also the famous Nutcracker Museum, which has over 6,000 nut-cracking tools.
Leavenworth's closest airport is the Pangborn Memorial Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. The Amtrak Empire Builder has service from Philadelphia, Seattle, Portland, and more for more direct access to the town. Buses service the town from across the nation, including from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
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 Leavenworth?
Main departure station: Icicle Station
There are two stations in Leavenworth where you can board the train to Chicago.
All train stations in Leavenworth:
- Icicle Station
- Leavenworth
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 Leavenworth?
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