- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for 24 Aug
Cheapest price
£209
Average price
£285
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 £285 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £209.
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.
449 Lake Shore Limited12:5722h15Back Bay station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2091One-way0 changes- 449 Lake Shore Limited12:5022h22South Station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2091One-way0 changes
- 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:5722h15Back Bay station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2211One-way1 change
- 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:5022h22South Station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2211One-way1 change
- 95 Northeast Regional · 40 Floridian6:1027h35South Station, Boston, MA8:45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2571One-way1 change
- 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:5722h15Back Bay station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2211One-way1 change
- 449 Lake Shore Limited12:5722h15Back Bay station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2091One-way0 changes
- 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited12:5022h22South Station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2211One-way1 change
- 449 Lake Shore Limited12:5022h22South Station, Boston, MA10:12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£2091One-way0 changes
- 40 Floridian+
2155 NextGen Acela7:0526h40Back Bay station, Boston, MA8:45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£4531One-way1 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 flight with prices starting from £53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 5m. 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 flight costs an average of £53, and a train costs an average of £65.
Distance: 1368 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£182 Average Price | £113 Average Price Cheapest | £120 Average Price |
22h 50m Average total duration 22h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 23h 54m Average total duration 23h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.1 - 8.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  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 today, Sunday 23 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 449 Lake Shore Limited | 12:50 South Station, Boston, MA | 22h22 | 10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 12:50 South Station, Boston, MA | 22h22 | 10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 change | |
| 449 Lake Shore Limited | 12:57 Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 22h15 | 10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 449 Lake Shore Limited · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 12:57 Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 22h15 | 10:12 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 change | |
| 2271 Acela+40 Floridian | 15:35 South Station, Boston, MA | 42h10 | 8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 change | |
| 2271 Acela+40 Floridian | 15:40 Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 42h05 | 8:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 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
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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.
Trains
from £116Coaches
from £82Flights
from £133Journey information
Overview: Train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 22h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £65 but you can travel from only £53 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 £53
Distance 1368 km |
Average train duration 22h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £65 |
Trains per day 6 |
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 Sun |
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 £53
Train companies: Amtrak from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL from £53. 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
£65
Amtrak frequency
6 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 $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Science museum in Jackson Park with hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and broad appeal for families and curious adults.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Natural history museum on the Museum Campus, known for dinosaur fossils, gem displays, and wide-ranging science exhibits.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and frequent events at the heart of central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Bustling avenue for architecture, shopping, river views, and easy walking between landmark buildings and major attractions.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River with terraces, bridges, boat access, and excellent close-up architecture views.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago classic with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked in a deep pan.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in savoury juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
North Pond
Elegant fine-dining restaurant rooted in Midwestern ingredients, with polished service and a refined contemporary dining room.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Historic pizzeria known for classic Chicago deep-dish in a lively, casual setting near the Magnificent Mile.
Al's Beef
Long-running counter-service spot famed for Italian beef sandwiches, dipped rolls and spicy giardiniera in a no-frills setting.
US dollar ($)
Expensive by US city standards: hotels, dining and attractions add up, though buses and the 'L' help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if table service is given.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £65, while the average price tends to be around £182.
The train journey from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 1368 km and takes approximately 22h 15m. Trains run 6 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 6 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 £53.
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+1 617-523-1300
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, USA
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.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Boston, MA arrive at?
Trains from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · £3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Boston, MA
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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