Cheap train tickets from Charleston to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Charleston to Chicago. Traveling by train from Charleston to Chicago usually takes 14 hours and 16 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 400 mi (643 km) |
| Fastest train | 14h 16m |
| Lowest price | $104.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Cardinal |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Charleston to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Charleston to Chicago?
There are usually 4 daily bus trips available from Charleston to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$197.33 | Avg. Price$114.19Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips1 | Daily Trips4 |
Duration | Duration14h 16mFaster | Duration22h 1m |
There are several train options that can take you from Charleston to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Charleston to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Charleston to Chicago was $104.00. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 3 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $343.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Charleston to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Charleston to Chicago will cost between $59 and $127. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Charleston to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Charleston to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in April when the average ticket price is only $130. If you're thinking of traveling from Charleston to Chicago during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $222 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Charleston to Chicago on Wanderu at least 3 days ahead of time, you can save about $343.00 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Charleston to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Charleston to Chicago, including Amtrak Cardinal. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cardinal | 1 | 14h 16m | $197.33 |
The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Charleston to Chicago per day, with an average trip length of 14 hours and 16 minutes.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Charleston to Chicago
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Charleston. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Charleston to Chicago for $82.
TRIPS PER DAY
1
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Charleston and Chicago is approximately 400 miles, or 643 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 14 hours and 16 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)
400
DISTANCE (KM)
643
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Charleston at 9:09pm and arrives in Chicago around 14 hours later.
EARLIEST TRAIN
9:09pm
LATEST TRAIN
9:09pm
Trains from Charleston 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Wednesday
LEAST CROWDED
Sunday
City Information
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 Charleston?
Main departure station: 350 MacCorkle Ave SE
There is one train station in Charleston.
All train stations in Charleston:
- 350 MacCorkle Ave SE
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 Charleston?
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