Boston, MA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu 09 Jul
+ Add return
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for 09 Jul

Cheapest price

£247

Average price

£331

Fastest journey

22 h 15 m

Average duration

23 h 11 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

1368 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL will cost around £331 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £247.

Fast trains

Of the 8 trains that leave Boston, MA for Chicago, IL every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 1368 km distance in an average of 23 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 22 h 15 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 d 2 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited
    12:5722h15
    Back Bay station, Boston, MA
    10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £2471One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited
    12:5022h22
    South Station, Boston, MA
    10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £2471One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited
    12:5022h22
    South Station, Boston, MA
    10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £2541One-way
    1 change
  • Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited
    12:5722h15
    Back Bay station, Boston, MA
    10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £2541One-way
    1 change
  • Amtrak95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian
    6:1027h35
    South Station, Boston, MA
    8:45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £4091One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £61, and a train costs an average of £66.

Distance: 1368 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Coach

£302

Average Price

£164

Average Price

£151

Average Price

Cheapest

22h 45m

Average total duration

22h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 9m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

25h 5m

Average total duration

24h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.4 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

4.1 - 8.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 3.4kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Boston, MA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Thursday 9 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian6:10 South Station, Boston, MA
27h35
8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian6:15 Back Bay station, Boston, MA
27h30
8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak2155 NextGen Acela+Amtrak40 Floridian7:00 South Station, Boston, MA
26h45
8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak2155 NextGen Acela+Amtrak40 Floridian7:05 Back Bay station, Boston, MA
26h40
8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited12:50 South Station, Boston, MA
22h22
10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 changesdirect
Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:50 South Station, Boston, MA
22h22
10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited12:57 Back Bay station, Boston, MA
22h15
10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 changesdirect
Amtrak449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:57 Back Bay station, Boston, MA
22h15
10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Boston, MA to Chicago, IL by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
09 Jul
Fri
10 Jul
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11 Jul
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12 Jul
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29 Jul

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Boston, MA to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 22h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £66 but you can travel from only £45 by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:10, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 1368 km distance in 22h 15m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £45
Distance
1368 km
Average train duration
22h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
£66
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
22h 15m
First train
6:10
Last train
21:30
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
56 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £45

Train companies: Amtrak from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL from £45. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22h 15m
Cheapest Price
£66
Amtrak frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Boston, MA to Chicago, IL train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £66, while the average price tends to be around £302.
The train journey from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 1368 km and takes approximately 22h 15m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL is 1368 km.
The first train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:10.
The last train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL departs at 21:30.
Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Boston, MA that goes to Chicago, IL is South Station, Boston, MA, and it arrives at Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL is by flight, costing approximately £45.
Booking trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL offers a blend of urban and natural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes such as the Berkshire Mountains, lush forests, and charming towns, making it a pleasant and varied experience.
A day trip from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 22h 15m. However, there are 4 trains per day covering the 1368 km.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry for interactive exhibits on science and technology or discover the vibrant neighbourhoods of Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, renowned for their unique shops and eateries. Take a river cruise to admire the city's iconic architecture, or enjoy a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Spend a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest in the U.S. and free to enter. For sightseeing, visit Millennium Park with its modern art installations, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Willis Tower Skydeck for panoramic city views, or the Field Museum to see the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, including its museums, architecture, and dining, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Boston, MA and Chicago, IL

Most Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trains use the South Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Boston, MA and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Boston
Arrival train stations in Chicago

Which Boston, MA station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?

Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL leave from South Station. The station is 1 km from Boston, MA city centre at 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110, USA.
South Station700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110, USA+1 617-523-1300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to South Station from Boston city centre

SubwayRed Line · 2m · £3 · every ~26 min
Red Line · 4m · £3 · every ~26 min

South Station train station facilities and services

South Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Legal Sea Foods, Tavern in the Square

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at South Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at South Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at South Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at South Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at South Station: Elevators, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include InterContinental Boston, The Langham, Boston, Boston Harbor Hotel.

Back Bay Station145 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116, USAWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Back Bay Station from Boston city centre

Back Bay Station is 1 km from Boston city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainFramingham/Worcester Line, Franklin/Foxboro Line, Needham Line, Providence/Stoughton Line · 5m · £75 · every ~9 min
BusBoston Commuter · 12m · £8
501, 504 · 17m · £4 · every ~5 min
TramB, C, D, E · 11m · £3 · every ~62 min
SubwayOrange Line · 5m · £3 · every ~24 min

Back Bay Station train station facilities and services

Back Bay Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Sorellina, Atlantic Fish Company

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Back Bay Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Back Bay Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Back Bay Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Back Bay Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Back Bay Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Copley Square Hotel, The Westin Copley Place, Fairmont Copley Plaza.

More options for your journey from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Boston, MA

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