Travel from Chicago, IL, to New York, NY, by train
The train ride from Chicago, IL, to New York, NY, lasts on average 20 h 11 min. Around 2 trains depart a day between Chicago and New York, the average price is $96.56 and the lowest ticket pricing starts at around $92.
Amtrak, the largest passenger railroad service in the U.S., operates the train from New York to Chicago. Two services directly connect Chicago to New York: Lakeshore Limited and the Cardinal. Even though they are both Viewliner trains in the same price range, the Lakeshore limited is a better choice because it is faster and operates daily, unlike the Cardinal, which runs three times a week. Besides these two services, you always have the option to change trains in Washington and Philadelphia which add about three hours to your journey.
Here are the fundamental differences between the Lakeshore limited and the Cardinal.
The Lakeshore Limited is the train route between Chicago and New York. It passes through Cleveland, South Bend, and Buffalo, along some of the most stunning shorelines of the USA. The name refers to the route following the Mohawk River, the Erie Canal, and the south shore of Lake Michigan. The scenery along the famous Native American Highway, as it is also called, is truly spectacular. It stops in 22 cities, and its estimated journey time is about 19 hours. It leaves New York once a day, every day. It is a Viewliner train with sleeper cars and a café on board.
The Cardinal is named after the state bird of all six states it passes through: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and New York. It only operates thrice a week, typically leaves Chicago in the early afternoon, and arrives in New York the following day after approximately 27 hours and 36 stops. The train passes through scenic areas, such as the Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River Valley, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Amtrak offers three sleeping options on both the Cardinal and the Lakeshore Limited.
- The Roomette is, at first glance, a tiny room, but it is very well-used. Different innovative storage options will surprise you at every step. They start with two comfortable recliner seats, which turn into a bed, and a second bunk bed that you pull from the ceiling, making enough space for two people to sleep and have a great view. The older Viewliner cars have a toilet and a sink in the room (one of the surprises under the steps to the upper bunk), which can be tricky if there are two people. The newer cars have toilets and bathrooms in the hallway.
- The Bedroom is twice as big, with a big comfy queen bed and a bathroom in the room (separated by a door). It has all the amenities of the Roomette with more space and a higher price.
- The Two-Room Suite on a train offers twice the space of a regular Bedroom accommodation. During the day, the suite features two sofas and separate chairs for seating; at night, these furnishings convert into upper and lower beds, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements. It includes two in-room sinks, restrooms, and showers.
If you opt for the sleeping car, you must book the entire unit, alone or with someone. Also, the coach has comfortable reclining seats, perfect for getting some shut-eye, so give it a chance.
The Café car is available for all passengers during the day, while the Sleepers Lounge is open only for sleeping passengers. Both offer meals, snacks, and beverages, and the sleepers have all three meals included in the ticket price.
Chicago Union Station is a bustling one of the biggest U.S. transportation hubs, ranking as the third busiest train station in the United States. It is a gateway to 15 Amtrak train lines, connecting travelers to nationwide destinations. Union Station also provides access to bus carriers such as Greyhound, Indian Trails, and Jefferson Lines and connections to Metra commuter lines. Conveniently located in downtown Chicago and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is within walking distance to the nearest Chicago L lines. It offers numerous amenities and services, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
You will end your journey at New York's Penn Station's newest addition - Moynihan Train Hall. Recently opened in 2021, the new transportation facility and architectural marvel is situated across 8th Avenue from Penn Station. Fun fact or a warning: Penn Station is the busiest train station in the western hemisphere, so be prepared to find your new terminal in time.
So if you plan to travel by train from Chicago to New York, let us help you plan it. We check thousands of rail, bus, and flight destinations to help you find the best price. Check out our handy price calendar below, where you can see the best prices across all modes of transport between New York and Chicago.
