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Chicago to Waterloo train

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Chicago - Waterloo Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Chicago and Waterloo. The average train journey from Chicago to Waterloo takes 2 hours and 44 minutes, but some Amtrak Capitol Limited train trips are as short as 2 hours and 43 minutes.

Distance138 mi (222 km)
Fastest train2h 43m
Lowest price$26.00
Trains per day3
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Lake Shore Limited
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Waterloo

(Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.5

5.0

Dawn

October 16, 2022- Vacation

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

Pros: Nice and spacious. Cons: Nothing. I enjoyed it all. Tips: Enjoy.

4.0

Khayla

January 2, 2020- Couples trip

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: Decent space, snacks available, and ports to charge electronics. Cons: On my first trip I did was not able to sit next to my significant other, reserved seating or something similar at least would be nice. We were able to sit with each other on the way back and that was much better. Tips: Wifi was not working on the train ride back, if you are in coach you can not use the upper food station only the snack station, also I felt pretty warm (not a complaint just bring layers you can take off so if you are too warm you can be more comfortable).

4.0

Susan

October 8, 2019- Vacation

Amtrak Capitol Limited

Pros: Getting home. Cons: As usual, the train left on time but kept stopping here and there due to freight train priorities. Bottom line - almost 2 hours late at the drop off destination. Tips: If you are on a rigid time schedule, avoid Amtrak. They lease the rails and as a result, you will sit and wait until the way is clear. If time is not an issue, all is good! Friendly, efficient staff. The choo choo is a lot cheaper than an airplane, but it comes with a price.

5.0

Ben

August 17, 2019- Solo travel

Amtrak Lake Shore Limited

I don't remember the names of the staff on my train home on 8/16 at 9:30pm from Chicago to Waterloo, but they were some of the nicest people I came in contact with after a month of traveling on different airlines, trains and busses. I hope whoever receives this knows, and thanks them for me.

4.0

Chilimbiso

May 30, 2019- Business

Amtrak Capitol Limited

wifi is a must for me.. it was a very long trip.

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Waterloo was $34.76. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 24 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $60.35 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average prices by travel date

$45$30$15AprApr

For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Waterloo will range from $32 to $45. If you're planning to travel by train to Waterloo in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Chicago you can find in the next 7 days is $34. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.

Monthly avg. prices

$125$100$75$50$25MJJASONDJFMA
Mark your calendar for February if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Waterloo. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of $40. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Waterloo during September, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about $101 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Prices as travel date approaches

$100$80$60$40$203020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Waterloo on Wanderu at least 24 days ahead of time, you can save about $60.35 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Waterloo?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Waterloo. 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 Limited12h 43m$58.38
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited22h 45m$35.78

  • 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 Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago and arrives at 485 West Van Vleek Street in Waterloo. The route takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes and ticket prices start at $26.

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance between Chicago and Waterloo is approximately 138 miles, or 222 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 44 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 43 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

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

The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00pm. 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 Chicago to Waterloo.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Waterloo to Chicago.

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.

Waterloo

Waterloo, IN, US - WTI-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Waterloo is a town in Indiana, getting its unique name from the city of the same name in Belgium. Despite being a small town, it offers a wide range of activities for families and sports lovers. You can take golf classes at the Bridgewater Golf Club or go skating with the family at the Skatin' Station. The family-friendly town is home to the Ft Wayne Children's Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. During your visit, some historical markers to check out include the Immaculate Conception Church and St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased in Waterloo, as the town is home to different specialty shops and boutiques. You can also visit when the De Kalb County Fair is in town, offering special events and auctions. The Summer Parade and Festival is an annual highlight in Waterloo, offering delicious food, activities for all ages, and fun presentations.

Waterloo is known as the crossroads of Northeastern Indiana, as it connects several major transportation routes. The travel hub has routes like I-69, US G, and IN 427 and is the only Amtrak passenger train stop in northeast Indiana.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main departure 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

Where is the train station in Waterloo?

Main arrival station: 485 West Van Vleek Street

Waterloo has one train station.

All train stations in Waterloo:

  • 485 West Van Vleek Street

Get around town with Moovit

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From the Wanderu blog

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