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Trip Summary
There is usually just one train option from Chicago to Blacksburg per day. The average train journey from Chicago to Blacksburg takes 27 hours and 52 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 27 hours and 35 minutes.
| Distance | 501 mi (806 km) |
| Fastest train | 27h 35m |
| Lowest price | $157.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Chicago to Blacksburg?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Blacksburg. 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 | 1d 3h 52m | $244.40 |
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 Chicago to Blacksburg every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $157.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Blacksburg is approximately 501 miles, or 806 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 27 hours and 52 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 27 hours and 35 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.
Friday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Chicago to Blacksburg. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Friday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Saturday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 5:00pm and arrives in Blacksburg around 27 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 Blacksburg 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.
Blacksburg
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Blacksburg is a town dominated by Virginia Tech, but even if you're not a student, you'll find plenty of exciting attractions to explore! Sports fans will be pleasantly surprised when they step into Lane Stadium, where you can watch games while witnessing quirky traditions such as the "Hokie Walk." For travelers who wish to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the city, check out the Historic Smithfield Plantation, built in the early 1770s. The building features unique architecture and a complex history, which will certainly reel you in. Finally, to enjoy some top-tier entertainment, head to the Lyric Theatre, a historical theatre nearly 100 years old.
Foodies will rejoice to hear that Blacksburg also has a great variety of dishes to offer to its visitors. The renowned Zeppoli's Italian Restaurant has long been a local favorite, and its authentic Italian plates are bound to please. For a more upscale experience, check out 622 North, housed in a lavish Victorian building.
Amtrak's Thruway bus service connects Blacksburg to the nationwide rail network, but it is also easy to reach Blacksburg via OurBus. The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport serves the city, but the nearest international airports are all the way in Washington, D.C., and Charlotte.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
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 Blacksburg?
Main arrival station: Virginia Tech Squires Student Ctr
Amtrak Thruway buses and local transit buses stop at 291 Alumni Mall in front of the Virginia Tech Squires Student Center. This is near the eastern edge of the Virginia Tech campus and just a short walk from downtown Blacksburg. This curbside bus stop does not have a separate building for travelers, but the student center has restrooms, food options, and seating inside. Although there are a few parking lots on the Virginia Tech campus, most are restricted for use by the university community. There is paid parking available in the North End Center Garage.
All train stations in Blacksburg:
Virginia Tech Squires Student Ctr
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