Train from Washington, DC, US to Chicago: Tickets & Schedules

Next train departures

Next departures for Washington to Chicago on August 2
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
AmtrakTrain
Union Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILCheapestFastest
AmtrakTrain
Union Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Union Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Union Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Union Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 12:27 PM EDT.

Compare 2 ways to go from Washington to Chicago

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Bus stands out as a good way to reach Chicago. The journey takes about 1 day, 1 hour 25 minutes and with fares starting at just $62, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

46bus per day
1d 1hAverage Duration
594 milesDistance
24kgCO₂ emissions
Average Price$62 - $370Average Duration1d 1h
24kg CO₂e
Average Price$75 - $1,569Average Duration1d
87kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Washington, DC, US to Chicago by train

Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from Washington to Chicago?

    The cheapest train tickets from Washington to Chicago start from $75. The average price for this train route is around $199. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from Washington to Chicago?

    The average train ride duration from Washington to Chicago is 1d , covering a distance of 595 miles (959 km). The quickest train can get you there in 17h 48m and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators service the Washington to Chicago route?

    Several major train operators operate on this route with 3 trains available per day.

  4. What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from Washington to Chicago?

    The earliest train departs from Washington to Chicago at 7:03am. And the latest train departs at 3:57pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
07/30
$263
07/31
$263
Today
$218
08/02
$218
08/03
$218
08/04
$218
08/05
$181
08/06
$218
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Washington, DC, US to Chicago was searched and found on Aug 5, 2026 with a price of $181

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Washington, DC, US to Chicago, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $181 to $2,373 for a train ticket from Washington, DC, US to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $181 which is on 2026-08-05.

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