- Recommended
Riverside Museum
Regional history museum covering La Crosse life, river culture, industry, and changing exhibitions in a central downtown location.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Oct
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£40
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£64
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
4 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
6 h 19 m
Trains on 07 Oct
4
Distance
364 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI will cost around £64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.
Fast trains
On Wed 07 Oct, we found 4 trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 364 km distance in an average of 6 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 10 h 1 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.
16:105h16Chicago, IL21:26La Crosse, WI£401One-way0 changes- 17:105h01Chicago, IL22:11La Crosse, WI£491One-way0 changes
- 20:054h59Chicago, IL1:04La Crosse, WI£611One-way0 changes
- 11:1010h01Chicago, IL21:11La Crosse, WI£1081One-way0 changes
- 20:054h59Chicago, IL1:04La Crosse, WI£611One-way0 changes
- 17:105h01Chicago, IL22:11La Crosse, WI£491One-way0 changes
- 16:105h16Chicago, IL21:26La Crosse, WI£401One-way0 changes
- 11:1010h01Chicago, IL21:11La Crosse, WI£1081One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:10, the last at 15:05. The fastest train covers the 364 km distance in 4h 48m.
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
Distance 364 km |
Average train duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £25 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 48m |
First train 6:10 |
Last train 15:05 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Live departures
Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI trains for today, Tuesday 6 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 329 Hiawatha Service · 1333 Borealis | 6:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 10h01 | 16:11 La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI | 1 change | |
| 331 Hiawatha Service · 1333 Borealis | 8:25 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 7h46 | 16:11 La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI | 1 change | |
| 1333 Borealis | 11:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 5h01 | 16:11 La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7 Empire Builder | 15:05 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4h59 | 20:04 La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI | 0 changesdirect | |
| 27 Empire Builder | 15:05 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4h59 | 20:04 La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and La Crosse, WI from £25. 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 Amtrak Duration
4h 48m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£25
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
Complete guide to La Crosse, WI
Things to do in La Crosse, WI
Discover the best of La Crosse, WI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Crosse, WI trip today.
- Recommended
Children's Museum of La Crosse
Interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits focused on play, learning, and family visits in downtown La Crosse.
University Art Gallery
Compact campus gallery presenting changing exhibitions of contemporary and historical art, ideal for a thoughtful short visit.
- Must visit
Riverside Park
Popular riverside park with walking paths, event spaces, boat views, and easy access to the city’s downtown waterfront.
- Must visit
Grandad Bluff Park
Blufftop park and viewpoint above the city, visited for sweeping river valley scenery, short walks, and sunset photographs.
- Recommended
Myrick Park
Wooded urban park with trails, rock formations, picnic spots, and a quieter local atmosphere close to the city centre.
- Vegetarian
Beer-Battered Cheese Curds
Beer-battered cheese curds are Wisconsin tavern staples: squeaky young cheddar, fried crisp and commonly served with ranch at bars across La Crosse.
Bratwurst
Bratwurst reflects the city’s German heritage, usually grilled and served in a bun with mustard, sauerkraut or onions at pubs, festivals and ball games.
Friday Fish Fry
Friday fish fry is a regional ritual of battered or breaded fish with fries, rye bread and slaw, rooted in Wisconsin supper club and tavern culture.
The Freighthouse Restaurant
Refined New American restaurant focused on steaks, seafood and cocktails, with a polished dining room suited to a smarter evening meal.
Pearl Street Brewery
Lively brewpub serving house beers, burgers, sandwiches and regional comfort food in a casual riverside downtown atmosphere.
Culver's
Well-known local burger spot celebrated for butter burgers, fried cheese curds and frozen custard in a straightforward casual setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for the US Midwest: hotels and meals are usually cheaper than in major US cities, while local transport options are limited so visitors often rely on taxis or cars.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $40+ per person for an upscale dinner.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or $1 at cafés for good service.
FAQs: Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £93.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI covers a distance of 364 km and takes approximately 4h 48m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI is 364 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI leaves at 6:10.
The last train from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI departs at 15:05.
Trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and La Crosse, WI. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to La Crosse, WI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at La Crosse Amtrak Station, La Crosse, WI.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and La Crosse, WI
Most Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI trains use the Union Station to La Crosse Amtrak Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to La Crosse, WI leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI 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+1 800-872-7245
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.
Which La Crosse, WI station do trains from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Trains from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI arrive at La Crosse Amtrak Station. La Crosse Amtrak Station is 4 km from La Crosse, WI city centre.
La Crosse Amtrak Station601 St Andrew St, La Crosse, WI 54603, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to La Crosse Amtrak Station from La Crosse city centre
La Crosse Amtrak Station is 3 km from La Crosse city centre. Public transport options include:
BusLocal bus services available
La Crosse Amtrak Station train station facilities and services
La Crosse Amtrak Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at La Crosse Amtrak Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at La Crosse Amtrak Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at La Crosse Amtrak Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at La Crosse Amtrak Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at La Crosse Amtrak Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Hotel La Crosse, Courtyard by Marriott La Crosse Downtown/Mississippi Riverfront.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to La Crosse, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from La Crosse, WI and Chicago, IL
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