Train from Chicago to New York City – Overview
Traveling by train from Chicago to New York City is a long-distance journey across the Midwest and Northeast of the United States. All train services on this route are operated by Amtrak, offering overnight travel with both coach seating and sleeping accommodations. The trip is popular with travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic alternative to flying or long-distance driving.
There is a train from Chicago to New York City, and trains run regularly throughout the week. Depending on the route and service selected, the journey typically takes around 20 to 28 hours and covers more than 700 miles. Most travelers depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive in Manhattan at Penn Station, making the train a convenient option for reaching the heart of New York City without airport transfers or highway traffic.
Passengers can choose between different Amtrak routes, some of which are faster and more direct, while others take longer but pass through especially scenic regions. Overnight travel is common on this route, and booking early is recommended—particularly for sleeper accommodations, which tend to sell out quickly.
Quick Facts: Train from Chicago to New York City
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Train operator | Amtrak |
| Direct trains available | Yes (limited) |
| Average travel time | Around 21–22 hours |
| Fastest journey | About 20 hours |
| Distance by train | Approx. 712 miles (1,146 km) |
| Departure station | Chicago Union Station |
| Arrival station | Penn Station, New York City |
| Overnight journey | Yes |
This overview sets the foundation for planning your trip by train from Chicago to New York City. In the next section, we’ll look in detail at the Amtrak routes available on this journey and what makes each option different.
Train Routes from Chicago to New York City
There are two Amtrak routes that operate between Chicago and New York City, and both are long-distance trains with overnight travel. Travelers can choose between a faster, more direct option or a longer, more scenic route, depending on schedule flexibility and travel preferences. Both routes offer coach seating as well as sleeping accommodations, making them suitable for an overnight journey.
All trains depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Penn Station in Manhattan, placing travelers directly in the center of New York City.
1) Lake Shore Limited (Fastest Option)
The Lake Shore Limited is the fastest and most popular train from Chicago to New York City. Travel time is about 20 hours, and the train runs daily, making it the most reliable option for most travelers.
This train departs Chicago at night, allowing passengers to sleep through a large portion of the journey. In the morning, the train travels through Upstate New York, and after Albany, passengers are treated to scenic views of the Hudson River Valley before arriving in New York City around dinnertime. For the best river views, sitting on the right side of the train is recommended, or travelers can visit the café car.
2) Cardinal (Most Scenic Route)
The Cardinal is a longer and more scenic route, with a travel time of around 27 to 28 hours. This train departs Chicago in the early evening and travels through Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, and major East Coast cities before reaching New York City.
One of the highlights of this route is the New River Gorge in West Virginia, often considered one of the most scenic rail sections in the eastern United States. However, the Cardinal only operates three days per week, which can limit scheduling flexibility. Arrival in New York City is typically late at night, so planning for taxis or rideshare services is recommended.
Because this train has limited frequency and high demand, sleeper accommodations on the Cardinal often sell out quickly, making early booking especially important.
Chicago to New York City Train Routes Comparison
| Route Name | Average Travel Time | Frequency | Departure Time (Chicago) | Arrival Time (NYC) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Shore Limited | ~20 hours | Daily | Night departure | Early evening | Fastest & most convenient option |
| Cardinal | ~27–28 hours | 3 days per week | Early evening | Late night | Scenic travel & mountain views |
Both routes are operated by Amtrak and provide a comfortable way to travel between the Midwest and the East Coast without flying. In the next section, we’ll look at the distance from Chicago to New York City by train and how it compares to other travel options.
Distance from Chicago to New York City by Train
The distance from Chicago to New York City by train is just over 700 miles, making it one of the longer intercity rail journeys in the United States. Trains travel across multiple states in the Midwest and Northeast, following established Amtrak corridors rather than a straight highway line. Because of track routing, stops, and terrain, the rail distance is slightly different from driving or flying distances.
Most trains on this route depart from Chicago and arrive directly in New York City, covering the full journey without requiring travelers to change modes of transportation. This makes the train a convenient point-to-point option despite the long distance.
Chicago to New York City Distance Comparison
| Travel Method | Distance |
|---|---|
| Distance by train | ~712 miles (1,146 km) |
| Distance by road (driving) | ~790 miles (1,271 km) |
| Straight-line distance (flight) | ~713 miles (1,148 km) |
While the train distance is similar to the flight distance, the travel experience is very different. Trains follow rail corridors through cities, river valleys, and rural regions, which increases overall travel time but offers a more relaxed journey. Compared to driving, the train route is generally shorter in distance and removes the need to manage traffic, rest stops, or overnight hotels.
Understanding the distance helps set realistic expectations for travel time and planning. In the next section, we’ll break down how long the train from Chicago to New York City takes, including the fastest and average journey times.
How Long Is the Train from Chicago to New York City?
The train journey from Chicago to New York City is a long-distance, overnight trip, with travel time varying based on the Amtrak route, whether the train is direct, and the number of intermediate stops. Most travelers should expect the journey to take between 20 and 28 hours, making it significantly longer than flying but more relaxed than driving.
The fastest trains on this route are operated by Amtrak, with overnight departures from Chicago and arrivals the following day in New York City. Because the trip usually includes nighttime travel, many passengers choose sleeper accommodations to rest during the journey.
Travel time can increase on routes that operate less frequently or pass through more scenic regions. Some services also involve a short transfer, which adds to the total duration.
Chicago to New York City Train Travel Time Breakdown
| Journey Type | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest train | ~20 hours 12 minutes | Direct service, overnight travel |
| Average train time | ~21–22 hours | Most common journey length |
| Longest journeys | ~27–28 hours | Scenic routes or limited-frequency services |
| Direct trains | ~20–21 hours | No transfers required |
| Trains with connections | ~22–28 hours | One transfer may be required |
Although the train takes much longer than a flight, many travelers prefer it for the ability to move around, access dining cars, and sleep onboard. Travel time is also more predictable than driving, as trains are not affected by highway traffic or weather-related road conditions.
Next, we’ll look at the train schedule from Chicago to New York City, including how many trains run per day and the first and last departures.
Train Schedule – Chicago to New York City
When planning a train trip from Chicago to New York City, knowing the train schedule is essential. While there aren’t dozens of daily departures like regional commuter routes, there are reliable options that run every day or on specific days of the week. Most routes involve overnight travel, with departures in the evening and arrivals the next day.
All trains on this route are operated by Amtrak and depart from Chicago’s Union Station, arriving at New York City’s Penn Station. Because this is a long-distance corridor, the railroad typically schedules departures in the late afternoon or evening to maximize overnight travel.
Below is a snapshot of typical schedules based on current timetable patterns. Exact departure and arrival times can vary by date and seasonal service changes, so always check the latest Amtrak schedule before booking.
Typical Train Schedule: Chicago → New York City
| Route Name | Departure from Chicago | Arrival in NYC | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Shore Limited | ~9:30 PM | ~6:00 PM next day | Daily |
| Cardinal | ~5:55 PM (selected days) | ~9:00 PM next day | 3 days/week |
What This Means for Travelers
- First Departure: The earliest major long-distance departure for this route tends to be in the early evening, typically around 5:30–6:00 PM (Cardinal days) or later at ~9:30 PM (Lake Shore Limited).
- Last Train: Since these are overnight routes, later departures still occur in the evening, allowing passengers to board after work or daytime activities.
- Daily vs Limited Service: The Lake Shore Limited runs every day, while the Cardinal operates on selected days only. Travelers should check the specific day of travel when planning their trip.
Example Departure Window
| Departure Window | Typical Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early evening | ~5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Cardinal (selected days) |
| Later evening | ~9:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Lake Shore Limited (daily) |
The schedule above gives a clear idea of when you can catch a train from Chicago Union Station to Penn Station in New York City, but times vary by date and season. In the next section, we’ll look at train ticket prices so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Train Ticket Prices from Chicago to New York City
When planning a train trip from Chicago to New York City, knowing ticket prices helps you budget wisely. Ticket costs vary based on how far in advance you book, the type of seating or accommodation you choose, and whether you’re traveling during peak travel periods or off-season.
All trains on this route are operated by Amtrak, and offer different fare tiers — from basic coach seats to sleeper accommodations that include beds and private rooms. Booking early generally results in lower ticket prices, while last-minute bookings can cost significantly more.
Below is a clear overview of typical ticket prices seen on this route.
Chicago to New York City — Train Ticket Prices
| Ticket Type | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coach (Standard Seat) | $80 – $180 | Most affordable option; seats only |
| Saver/Advance Coach | $75 – $130 | Cheapest if booked well early |
| Business Class / Comfort Seat | $150 – $260 | More legroom & amenities |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $300 – $450+ | Includes bed space; ideal overnight |
| Bedroom (Private Room) | $500 – $900+ | Best for privacy & comfort overnight |
How Pricing Works
- Saver/Advance Coach — These are usually the cheapest tickets and sell out quickly. Booking early increases your chances of securing them.
- Standard Coach — Regular seating with reclining chairs and overhead storage; prices rise closer to departure date.
- Business/Comfort Seats — Offer more space, peace and quiet, and sometimes better food/beverage service.
- Sleeper Accommodations — Roomettes and bedrooms come with beds and more privacy, recommended for overnight journeys.
Example Price Insights
- On many booking platforms, the average ticket price from Chicago to New York City in coach tends to fall between $130 – $260.
- Some sites list last-minute one-way adult fares under $100 on rare occasions, but these depend on availability and specific departure dates.
- Sleepers can easily exceed $400+ one way, especially during peak travel times like holidays or summer.
Tips to Save on Train Tickets
✔ Book early — Advance purchase prices are usually much lower.
✔ Travel off-peak — Tickets for weekday departures or shoulder seasons tend to cost less.
✔ Be flexible with dates — Slight changes in travel date can lower ticket prices.
✔ Use price comparison tools — Train booking platforms often show different price options for the same route.
Cheapest Train Tickets & Best Time to Book — Chicago to New York City
If you want to save money on your train trip from Chicago to New York City, knowing when to book and which dates tend to be cheaper can make a significant difference. Train ticket prices on long-distance routes like this one fluctuate based on demand, how far in advance you book, and the time of year you plan to travel.
Because the journey is long and often overnight, booking early and being flexible with your travel dates can help you secure the lowest fares — especially if you’re planning to travel in coach (standard seating) rather than a sleeper.
Best Time to Book Train Tickets
| Booking Timing | Expected Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 60+ Days in Advance | Lowest prices ($75–$130) | Best chance to get saver/advance fares |
| 30–45 Days in Advance | Moderate prices ($110–$190) | Good balance of price & availability |
| 14–30 Days in Advance | Higher prices ($150–$240) | Coach prices start increasing |
| 7–14 Days Before Departure | Expensive ($200+) | Limited saver seats left |
| Last-Minute (0–7 Days) | Highest ($250+) | Highest prices, limited availability |
Cheapest Months to Travel
| Month | Typical Ticket Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January – February | Lower fares | Post-holiday slow season |
| March – April | Moderate fares | Shoulder season |
| May – June | Increasing fares | Higher summer demand |
| July – August | Peak fares | Busy travel season |
| September – October | Moderate fares | Shoulder season |
| November – December | Mixed | Thanksgiving & holidays push prices up |
How to Get the Best Deals
✔ Book Early: Train tickets are usually cheapest 60+ days before departure, especially if you use the advance/saver fare option.
✔ Travel Off-Peak: January through early March tend to have lower demand and cheaper ticket prices.
✔ Avoid Holiday Weekends: Peak travel periods like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s often carry higher fares.
✔ Be Flexible: Moving your departure date by a few days can lower prices substantially.
✔ Use Alerts & Comparison Tools: Booking platforms and apps can notify you when prices drop on your chosen route.
Example Savings Scenario
| Scenario | Ticket Price | Savings Compared to Last-Minute |
|---|---|---|
| Booked 90 Days Ahead | ~$90–$120 | Up to $150–$200 saved |
| Booked 30 Days Ahead | ~$150–$180 | $70–$100 saved |
| Booked 7 Days Ahead | ~$220+ | Baseline |
Planning ahead is one of the most effective ways to find cheapest train tickets from Chicago to New York City. In the next section, we’ll explore sleeping accommodations — including roomettes and bedrooms — for overnight comfort on this long train journey.
Sleeper Train Options from Chicago to New York City
Traveling by train from Chicago to New York City often includes an overnight journey, which can be made much more comfortable with sleeper accommodations. On long-distance Amtrak routes like the Lake Shore Limited and Cardinal, passengers can choose from several types of sleeper options designed for rest and privacy.
Sleeper accommodations are especially valuable on this route because the journey typically takes around 20–28 hours. Choosing a sleeper option means you’ll have a private space to rest, enjoy some privacy, and avoid the discomfort of reclining coach seats overnight.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the common sleeper options available on these Amtrak routes.
Amtrak Sleeper Options
| Sleeper Type | Description | Typical Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roomette | Compact private space with two facing seats that convert to sleeping berths | $300–$450+ | Solo travelers or couples |
| Bedroom | Larger room with a bed, seating area, and private sink/toilet (on some services) | $500–$900+ | Families or those who want more comfort |
| Family Bedroom | Larger sleeping space for up to 4 people | $700–$1,200+ | Families or groups |
| Accessible Bedroom | Same as bedroom, with wheelchair accessibility | $500–$900+ | Passengers needing accessible accommodations |
What to Expect in Sleeper Cars
- Private space: Unlike coach seats, sleeper accommodations offer a separate area that can convert from seating to sleeping space.
- Bedding provided: Sheets, pillows, and blankets are usually included for overnight routes.
- Meals included (selected services): Some sleeper fare levels include meals in the dining car — check specific route details when booking.
- Power & amenities: Most sleeper rooms offer power outlets, reading lights, and privacy curtains/doors.
- Quiet & comfort: Ideal for overnight travel, especially for travelers who don’t want to arrive tired.
Tips for Booking Sleeper Accommodations
✔ Book Early: Sleeper rooms sell out fast, especially for weekends and holiday travel.
✔ Check Fare Inclusions: Some bedrooms include meals; others may not. Always verify when booking.
✔ Group Travel: If traveling with family or friends, a family bedroom can be more economical than multiple roomettes.
✔ Compare Options: Prices can vary widely by date, so check multiple departure days if possible.
Choosing a sleeper room can make the long overnight journey much more comfortable and enjoyable — especially when the trip spans nearly a full day across several states. In the next section, we’ll break down the train stations in Chicago where your journey begins.
Train Stations in Chicago
All long-distance trains traveling from Chicago to New York City depart from Chicago Union Station, the city’s main intercity rail hub. This historic station serves as the primary departure point for Amtrak routes heading east and is one of the busiest train stations in the United States.
Located in downtown Chicago, Union Station is well connected to local transit, making it easy for travelers to reach the station from different parts of the city. The station handles multiple long-distance and regional routes, and it is fully equipped to support overnight train travel, including waiting areas, dining options, and passenger services.
Chicago Union Station – Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station name | Chicago Union Station |
| Station code | CHI |
| Location | Downtown Chicago (West Loop) |
| Train operator | Amtrak |
| Routes to New York City | Lake Shore Limited, Cardinal |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible |
| Connections | CTA trains & buses, Metra commuter rail |
Facilities & Amenities at Chicago Union Station
| Available Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| Waiting areas | Large indoor waiting rooms |
| Dining options | Restaurants, cafés, food courts |
| Ticketing | Ticket counters & self-service kiosks |
| Restrooms | Available within the station |
| Accessibility services | Elevators, ramps, assistance |
| Nearby hotels | Multiple hotels within walking distance |
| Local transit access | Easy connection to CTA trains & buses |
What Travelers Should Know
- Arrival time: For long-distance Amtrak trains, arriving 30–45 minutes early is recommended, especially if you have luggage.
- Boarding process: Boarding usually begins 20–30 minutes before departure, and announcements are made inside the station.
- Overnight departures: Many Chicago–New York trains depart in the evening, making Union Station a common late-night boarding point.
Chicago Union Station offers everything needed to begin a long-distance journey comfortably, whether you’re traveling in coach or a sleeper car. In the next section, we’ll cover train stations in New York City, including where trains arrive and how to get around Manhattan after you arrive.
Train Stations in New York City
All trains traveling from Chicago arrive in Manhattan at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, the primary intercity rail hub in New York City. This station serves as the main arrival point for Amtrak long-distance trains and places passengers directly in the heart of Manhattan, making onward travel simple and convenient.
Moynihan Train Hall is part of the larger Penn Station complex and is located near major landmarks, business districts, hotels, and public transportation lines. Whether you’re continuing your journey within New York City or heading to another destination, Penn Station offers extensive connections and passenger services.
New York City Arrival Station – Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station name | Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station |
| Station code | NYP |
| Location | Midtown Manhattan |
| Train operator | Amtrak |
| Incoming routes from Chicago | Lake Shore Limited, Cardinal |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible |
| Nearby landmarks | Madison Square Garden, Times Square |
Facilities & Amenities at Penn Station
| Available Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| Waiting areas | Spacious seating areas |
| Dining options | Restaurants, cafés, food outlets |
| Ticketing | Amtrak ticket counters & kiosks |
| Restrooms | Available within the station |
| Accessibility services | Elevators, ramps, assistance |
| Luggage services | Luggage carts & assistance |
| Shopping | Retail stores & convenience shops |
Transportation Connections from Penn Station
| Transport Option | Lines / Services |
|---|---|
| Subway | A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines |
| Commuter rail | Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), NJ Transit |
| Taxis & rideshare | Available outside the station |
| Airport access | Subway & rail connections to JFK, LaGuardia, Newark |
What to Expect on Arrival
- Central location: Penn Station places you within walking distance of Midtown attractions and hotels.
- Easy transfers: Seamless connections to subway lines and regional rail services make it easy to reach other boroughs or nearby cities.
- Late-night arrivals: Some trains from Chicago arrive in the evening or late at night, so rideshare or taxis are often the most convenient option at that time.
Arriving at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station makes the end of your Chicago–New York train journey efficient and well connected. In the next section, we’ll compare train vs bus vs flight to help you decide the best way to travel between Chicago and New York City.
Chicago to New York: Train vs Bus vs Flight
When traveling between Chicago and New York City, travelers often compare train, bus, and flight options to decide which best fits their budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. Each mode of transport has clear advantages depending on whether you prioritize price, speed, comfort, or environmental impact.
The train is a popular choice for travelers who want a relaxed, overnight journey with the ability to move around, while flights are best for those short on time. Buses are usually the cheapest option but involve the longest travel times and fewer onboard comforts.
Chicago to New York: Travel Options Comparison
| Travel Mode | Average Travel Time | Typical Price Range | Comfort Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Amtrak) | ~20–22 hours | $80 – $260+ | High | Overnight travel, comfort, scenic views |
| Flight | ~2–3 hours (air time) | $100 – $300+ | Medium | Fastest option |
| Bus | ~22–30 hours | $90 – $180 | Low–Medium | Budget travelers |
Train: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Spacious seating and the ability to walk around
- Sleeper accommodations available for overnight comfort
- No baggage fees for standard luggage
- Arrives directly in Manhattan at Penn Station
Cons
- Longest journey time compared to flying
- Limited departures compared to flights
Flight: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fastest way to travel between Chicago and New York
- Frequent departures throughout the day
Cons
- Additional time for security and airport transfers
- Baggage fees may apply
- Airports are outside city centers
Bus: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Often the cheapest travel option
- Multiple daily departures
Cons
- Long travel time
- Less legroom and fewer amenities
- Comfort varies by bus company
Environmental Impact Comparison
| Travel Mode | Estimated CO₂ Emissions |
|---|---|
| Train | Low |
| Bus | Medium |
| Flight | High |
Which Option Is Best?
- Choose the train if you want comfort, overnight travel, and a city-center arrival.
- Choose a flight if time is your top priority.
- Choose a bus if you’re traveling on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer journey.
The best choice depends on your travel style, schedule, and budget. In the next section, we’ll cover the return journey from New York City to Chicago by train, including routes, travel time, and pricing.
Train from New York City to Chicago (Return Journey)
The return journey from New York City to Chicago by train follows the same Amtrak routes as the outbound trip, making it just as straightforward to plan. Trains depart from Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) and arrive at Chicago Union Station, offering an overnight, city-center–to–city-center connection across the Northeast and Midwest.
As with the outbound route, travelers can choose between a faster daily option and a more scenic, limited-frequency option. Most services depart in the evening, allowing passengers to sleep onboard and arrive in Chicago the following day.
Routes & Typical Travel Times (NYC → Chicago)
| Route | Average Travel Time | Frequency | Departure (NYC) | Arrival (Chicago) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Shore Limited | ~20–21 hours | Daily | Evening | Late afternoon / early evening | Fastest & most reliable |
| Cardinal | ~27–28 hours | 3 days/week | Late afternoon | Late evening | Scenic route; limited days |
What to Expect on the Return Trip
- Overnight travel: Most departures are scheduled for the evening, making sleeper accommodations popular.
- Direct vs connections: The Lake Shore Limited typically offers the most direct experience; other options may include a short connection depending on the day.
- Arrival timing: Expect to arrive in Chicago late afternoon to evening, which works well for hotel check-in or evening plans.
Ticket Prices (NYC → Chicago)
| Ticket Type | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coach | $80 – $200+ | Cheapest when booked early |
| Business / Comfort | $150 – $300+ | More space & quieter cars |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $300 – $450+ | Popular for overnight rest |
| Bedroom / Family | $500 – $900+ | Most privacy & comfort |
Booking Tips for the Return Journey
✔ Book early, especially for weekends and sleeper rooms
✔ Check operating days if choosing the Cardinal
✔ Compare nearby dates to find lower fares
✔ Plan late-night arrivals with taxis or rideshare in advance
The return train from New York City to Chicago offers the same comfort, amenities, and overnight convenience as the outbound journey—making rail a consistent option for round-trip travel. Next, we’ll look at when trains are most crowded and how timing your departure can help you avoid peak demand.
When Are Trains Most Crowded? (Chicago ↔ New York City)
Knowing when trains are most crowded on the Chicago–New York City route can help you choose a quieter, more comfortable journey and sometimes even save money. Crowd levels on long-distance Amtrak trains tend to follow weekly travel patterns, seasonal demand, and holiday schedules.
In general, trains are busiest when leisure and return travel overlap, and least crowded during midweek, off-peak periods.
Crowd Levels by Day of the Week
| Day | Crowd Level | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Very High | Peak return travel; fuller cars and higher fares |
| Friday | High | Weekend getaways and business travelers |
| Saturday | Moderate–High | Leisure travel increases |
| Monday | Moderate | Business travel begins |
| Tuesday | Low | Fewer travelers; quieter coaches |
| Wednesday | Low | One of the least crowded days |
| Thursday | Moderate | Gradual increase before weekend |
Least crowded days: Tuesday and Wednesday
Most crowded day: Sunday
Seasonal Crowd Trends
| Season | Crowd Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January–February | Low | Post-holiday slow season |
| March–April | Moderate | Spring travel begins |
| May–June | Increasing | Summer demand builds |
| July–August | Very High | Peak summer travel |
| September–October | Moderate | Shoulder season |
| November–December | High | Holidays and family travel |
Holiday & Peak Periods to Watch
Trains are especially crowded during:
- Thanksgiving week
- Christmas & New Year
- Long weekends (Memorial Day, Labor Day)
- Summer Fridays & Sundays
During these periods, sleeper rooms sell out early, and coach cars can feel much fuller.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
✔ Travel midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday)
✔ Avoid Sunday departures, especially in summer
✔ Book early-morning or late-evening departures where possible
✔ Reserve sleeper accommodations for more privacy
✔ Travel during January, February, or early March for the quietest experience
FAQs – Train from Chicago to New York City
Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling by train between Chicago and New York City. These cover journey time, tickets, routes, comfort, and practical planning tips—based on common traveler concerns for this long-distance route.
Quick FAQs at a Glance
| Question | Short Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there a train from Chicago to New York City? | Yes, Amtrak operates regular services. |
| How long does the train take? | About 20–28 hours, depending on route. |
| Are there direct trains? | Yes, but direct options are limited. |
| How much do tickets cost? | From ~$75 in coach; sleepers cost more. |
| Can you sleep on the train? | Yes, sleeper rooms are available. |
| Which route is fastest? | Lake Shore Limited. |
| Which route is most scenic? | Cardinal (limited days). |
| Where do trains depart/arrive? | Chicago Union Station → Penn Station (NYC). |
Detailed FAQs
Is there a train from Chicago to New York City?
Yes. All trains on this route are operated by Amtrak, offering overnight long-distance services between the two cities.
How long is the train journey from Chicago to New York City?
Travel time typically ranges from about 20 hours (fastest) to around 27–28 hours on more scenic or limited-frequency routes.
Are there direct trains from Chicago to New York City?
Yes, there is usually one direct train per day. Other services may include a short connection, depending on the route and date.
How much does a train ticket cost from Chicago to New York City?
Coach tickets can start as low as $75–$130 when booked early. Average prices are higher closer to departure. Sleeper accommodations (roomettes and bedrooms) are more expensive.
Can you sleep on the train?
Yes. Overnight trains offer roomettes, bedrooms, and family bedrooms. Coach seats also recline, but sleepers provide significantly more comfort and privacy.
Which Amtrak route is the fastest?
The Lake Shore Limited is generally the fastest option, with travel times close to 20 hours and daily departures.
Which route is the most scenic?
The Cardinal is considered the most scenic, passing through areas like West Virginia’s New River Gorge, but it runs only three days per week.
Where does the train depart and arrive?
Trains depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) in Manhattan, placing you in the heart of New York City.
When should I book tickets to get the best price?
Booking 30–60 days in advance usually provides the best chance to secure lower fares, especially for sleeper rooms.
Is the train a good alternative to flying?
Yes, if you value comfort, overnight travel, city-center arrivals, and a relaxed pace. Flying is faster, but the train avoids airport transfers and security lines.
Conclusion – Is the Train the Best Way to Travel from Chicago to New York City?
Taking the train from Chicago to New York City is not about speed—it’s about comfort, convenience, and the overall travel experience. While flying gets you there in a few hours, the train offers something very different: an overnight, city-center-to-city-center journey that removes the stress of airports, security lines, baggage fees, and long drives.
With Amtrak’s long-distance services, travelers can choose between a faster, more direct route or a longer, more scenic option, both of which allow you to relax, move around, and even sleep while covering more than 700 miles. For travelers who value personal space, sleeper accommodations turn the journey into a comfortable overnight trip rather than a tiring travel day.
The train also arrives directly in Manhattan, making it especially appealing for visitors who want to avoid airport transfers and start exploring the city right away. For budget-conscious travelers who book early, train fares can be competitive—especially when you factor in luggage, ground transportation, and hotel savings from overnight travel.
When the Train Makes the Most Sense
| Travel Priority | Train | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & space | ✅ | Spacious seating and sleeper options |
| Overnight travel | ✅ | Sleep onboard and save a hotel night |
| City-center arrival | ✅ | Arrives directly at Penn Station |
| Stress-free travel | ✅ | No security lines or baggage fees |
| Fastest travel time | ❌ | Flights are much quicker |
Final Verdict
The train is the best choice if you:
- Prefer a relaxed, overnight journey
- Want more space and the option to sleep
- Value a direct arrival in the heart of New York City
- Are not in a rush and enjoy scenic travel
If speed is your top priority, flying will always win. But if you want a comfortable, predictable, and low-stress way to travel between Chicago and New York City, the train is a strong and often underrated option—especially when planned in advance.
