Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI train with Amtrak

Wed 15 Jul
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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 Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Showing times and prices for 15 Jul

Cheapest price

£56

Average price

£81

Fastest journey

5 h 25 m

Average duration

7 h 19 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

384 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI will cost around £81 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £56.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Detroit, MI 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 384 km distance in an average of 7 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 25 m .

The slowest trains will take 9 h 5 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.

  • Amtrak350 Wolverine
    6:455h45
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    13:30Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
    £561One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak354 Wolverine
    17:505h25
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    0:15Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
    £561One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak364 Blue Water · 354 Wolverine
    16:007h15
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    0:15Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
    £851One-way
    1 change
  • Amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
    21:309h05
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:35Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
    £991One-way
    1 change
  • Amtrak448 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
    21:309h05
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:35Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI
    £1111One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £24, and a flight costs an average of £89.

Distance: 384 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£54

Average Price

£45

Average Price

Cheapest

£285

Average Price

7h 27m

Average total duration

6h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 26m

Average total duration

5h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 23m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI trains for today, Tuesday 14 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak352 Wolverine14:15 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5h30
20:45 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI0 changesdirect
Amtrak364 Blue Water · 354 Wolverine16:00 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
7h15
0:15 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI1 change
Amtrak354 Wolverine17:50 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5h25
0:15 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI0 changesdirect
Amtrak448 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK21:30 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
9h05
7:35 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI1 change
Amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK21:30 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
9h05
7:35 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI1 change
Amtrak350 Wolverine6:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5h45
13:30 Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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.

Wed
15 Jul
Thu
16 Jul
Fri
17 Jul
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18 Jul
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19 Jul
Mon
20 Jul
Tue
21 Jul
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24 Jul
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31 Jul
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01 Aug
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Tue
04 Aug

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI?

The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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 Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 384 km distance in 5h 20m.

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
Coach from £24
Distance
384 km
Average train duration
6h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
£31
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
5h 20m
First train
4:56
Last train
21:30
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
35 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
Coach from £24

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI from £24. 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
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
£24
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: Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £54.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI covers a distance of 384 km and takes approximately 5h 20m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is 384 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI leaves at 4:56.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI departs at 21:30.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Detroit, MI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is by coach, costing approximately £24.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI offers a scenic experience with views of the picturesque Michigan countryside, charming small towns, and glimpses of the Great Lakes.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 20m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 384 km.
In Detroit, MI, you can explore the Motown Museum, the birthplace of the Motown Sound, and enjoy guided tours of historic recording studios. Visit Eastern Market for fresh produce, local goods, and street art. Discover Detroit's history at the Detroit Historical Museum with engaging exhibits. The Detroit Zoo offers a variety of animals in immersive habitats. Catch a game or tour at Comerica Park, a family-friendly baseball stadium. For cultural sights, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts with over 65,000 artworks, and The Henry Ford, showcasing American innovation. Enjoy the scenic Detroit Riverwalk and explore Belle Isle Park with its aquarium and nature trails. Don't miss the Guardian Building's stunning Art Deco architecture.
To fully explore Detroit's main attractions, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, and the Henry Ford Museum, plan to spend about 3 to 4 days in the city.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI

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

Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Detroit

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Detroit, MI leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI

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

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