The journey between the Windy City and the Big Apple on a train is considered to be an extremely picturesque and peaceful ways to travel across between the American Midwest and Northeast. If you’re a new train traveler or an experienced Amtrak traveler, this thorough guide will cover everything you’ll should know about trains between Chicago up to New York – from the schedule and prices for tickets to the onboard facilities including station guides and savings tips.
Why Take the Train from Chicago to New York?
Before you make a booking for flights or jump into your vehicle, think about the advantages of traveling by train along this famous route:
Unmatched Scenic Beauty
The train ride between Chicago from Chicago to New York takes you through the most stunning scenic landscapes. The journey will take you along the shores of Lake Michigan, through the landscape of rolling hills in Ohio, as well as the beautiful forests of Pennsylvania, and then the dramatic Hudson River Valley – and all from your seats. In contrast to flying at 35,000 feet, trains let you see the entire country expand out of your window.
Stress-Free Travel
There are no security lines at airports. There are no cramped seats on airplanes. No congestion at the intersection. With Amtrak, you are able to stroll about freely, take a trip to the restaurant car, relax your legs at the observation lounge, and relax instead of having to endure it. The train arrives refreshed and not exhausted.
Eco-Friendly Transportation
Trains are among the eco-friendly methods of traveling over long distances. Amtrak trains release considerably less carbon dioxide per mile than planes or cars, which makes the Chicago trip from New York a greener alternative.
City-Center to City-Center
Amtrak’s Chicago hub (Union Station) as well as New York’s Penn Station are both located right in the middle of their respective cities’ downtowns. There are no long airport transfers or expensive taxi rides to suburban terminals – just get off the train, and you’re immediately where you’re supposed to be.
Productivity and Relaxation
With free WiFi (on all trains) and power outlets in each seat, as well as spacious seating areas, you can be productive, read, watch films, or look out the window. This is the ideal balance of working and relaxing.
Which Amtrak Trains Run from Chicago to New York?
Amtrak runs one of the main long-distance trains along the Chicago to New York route:
The Lake Shore Limited
The Lake Shore Limited is Amtrak’s most popular service that connects Chicago to New York City (and Boston). It’s among Amtrak’s top long-distance routes. They offer regular service both ways.
Lake Shore Limited is a typical overnight long-distance train, which means you’ll spend one night on the train. The train is split at Albany-Rensselaer. One section goes through New York City, and the second section heads towards Boston.
| Feature | Details |
| Train Number | 48 (Eastbound: Chicago → New York) / 49 (Westbound: New York → Chicago) |
| Route | Chicago → Cleveland → Buffalo → Albany → New York City |
| Frequency | Daily, year-round |
| Distance | Approximately 959 miles |
| Operator | Amtrak |
Chicago to New York Train Schedule:
The ability to understand the itinerary is vital in planning your travel. What you must be aware of:
Eastbound Schedule (Train 48 — Chicago to New York)
| Station | Departure/Arrival Time |
| Chicago, IL (Union Station) | Departs: 9:30 PM (21:30) |
| South Bend, IN | 11:29 PM |
| Toledo, OH | 1:55 AM |
| Cleveland, OH | 3:27 AM |
| Erie, PA | 5:30 AM |
| Buffalo, NY (Depew) | 7:24 AM |
| Rochester, NY | 8:44 AM |
| Syracuse, NY | 10:13 AM |
| Utica, NY | 11:32 AM |
| Schenectady, NY | 12:37 PM |
| Albany-Rensselaer, NY | 1:10 PM |
| Hudson, NY | 1:57 PM |
| Rhinecliff, NY | 2:19 PM |
| Poughkeepsie, NY | 2:43 PM |
| Croton-on-Hudson, NY | 3:23 PM |
| Yonkers, NY | 3:59 PM |
| New York, NY (Penn Station) | Arrives: 6:23 PM |
Note: Be aware that scheduled times are estimates and are subject to change. Make sure to check Amtrak.com for the latest schedule prior to your travel.
Westbound Schedule (Train 49 — New York to Chicago)
| Station | Departure/Arrival Time |
| New York, NY (Penn Station) | Departs: 3:40 PM (15:40) |
| Yonkers, NY | 4:15 PM |
| Croton-on-Hudson, NY | 4:51 PM |
| Poughkeepsie, NY | 5:28 PM |
| Rhinecliff, NY | 5:52 PM |
| Hudson, NY | 6:14 PM |
| Albany-Rensselaer, NY | 7:10 PM |
| Schenectady, NY | 7:38 PM |
| Utica, NY | 8:50 PM |
| Syracuse, NY | 10:02 PM |
| Rochester, NY | 11:29 PM |
| Buffalo, NY (Depew) | 12:54 AM |
| Erie, PA | 2:45 AM |
| Cleveland, OH | 5:28 AM |
| Toledo, OH | 7:24 AM |
| South Bend, IN | 9:56 AM |
| Chicago, IL (Union Station) | Arrives: 11:50 AM |
Frequency
- Every day service, seven days a week, all year long, 24/7
- No reductions during the season -the Lake Shore Limited operates consistently all year long.
Chicago to New York Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
The duration of travel of the train that goes between Chicago and New York is approximately:
| Direction | Travel Time |
| Chicago → New York (Eastbound) | About 20 hours 53 minutes |
| New York → Chicago (Westbound) | About 20 hours 10 minutes |
Why Does It Take So Long?
A flight from Chicago to New York takes about 2.5 hours; the train trip takes significantly longer due to a variety of reasons.
- Distance: The railway network is approximately 959 miles long, following the natural terrain in regions like the Great Lakes and Appalachian regions instead of flying directly.
- Shared Tracks: Amtrak has shared tracks with railroads for freight on large portions of the route, which could cause delays.
- Multiple Stops: The train connects various communities along its route and is therefore accessible to those living in towns that are less populated.
- Speed Limits: In contrast to trains with high speeds within Europe and Asia, Amtrak trains on the route generally travel at speeds of 79 mph and less.
There are a lot of delays when traveling this route, especially east of Albany. Plan for flexibility in your travel plans, and do not plan a tight connection within minutes of arrival.
Penn Station: Terminal Station Guide for Passengers
Your trip ends at New York Penn Station. There’s more you can learn about the iconic transportation center.
Location and Address
- Address: 351 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001
- The location is in Midtown Manhattan, between 7th 8th and 7th Avenues.
Moynihan Train Hall: The New Face of Penn Station
Amtrak relocated its operation into the beautiful Moynihan Train Hall, located right to the west of 8th Avenue, from the original Penn Station inside the historic James A. Farley Building (the original postal office).
| Feature | Details |
| Opened | January 1, 2021 |
| Architecture | Beaux-Arts design with 92-foot-high glass skylight ceiling |
| Amenities | 92-foot glass skylight, comfortable seating, digital displays, retail shops, food hall |
| Access | Connected to original Penn Station via underground concourse |
Facilities and Amenities at Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall
| Amenity | Availability |
| Ticketing & Customer Service | Full-service Amtrak ticket counters + self-service kiosks |
| Waiting Areas | Spacious seating in Moynihan Train Hall |
| Restrooms | Available in both Moynihan Hall and original Penn Station |
| Food & Dining | Multiple food courts, coffee shops, and restaurants |
| Retail Shops | Convenience stores, newsstands, gift shops |
| WiFi | Free WiFi throughout the station |
| Luggage Storage | Available through third-party services nearby |
| Accessibility | Fully wheelchair accessible; elevators to all platforms |
| MTA Subway Connections | Direct access to 1, 2, 3, A, C, E subway lines |
| Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) | Shared terminal for commuter rail |
| NJ Transit | Connections to New Jersey |
Getting Around New York from Penn Station
| Destination | How to Get There |
| Times Square | Walk 10 minutes north or take the 1/2/3 subway one stop |
| Central Park | Take the A/C/E or 1/2/3 subway north to 59th St |
| Brooklyn | Take the 2/3 or A/C subway lines east |
| JFK Airport | LIRR to Jamaica Station, then AirTrain ($15.75 total) |
| LaGuardia Airport | Bus or taxi (no direct subway) |
| Newark Airport | NJ Transit to Newark Airport Railroad Station, then AirTrain |
Key Stops Between Chicago to New York
The Lake Shore Limited makes several important stops on its route. These are the most important cities and the reasons why they are important:
The section that runs from Albany up to New York City along the Hudson River is particularly scenic, particularly during the autumn foliage season (late September through late November).
| Stop | State | Notable Features |
| South Bend | Indiana | Home to the University of Notre Dame |
| Toledo | Ohio | “Glass City” — historic industrial center on Lake Erie |
| Cleveland | Ohio | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Lake Erie waterfront |
| Erie | Pennsylvania | Presque Isle State Park, Great Lakes history |
| Buffalo (Depew) | New York | Niagara Falls nearby, Buffalo wings origin |
| Rochester | New York | Kodak history, Finger Lakes region gateway |
| Syracuse | New York | University city, central New York hub |
| Albany-Rensselaer | New York | State capital, train splits here (NYC/Boston sections) |
| Hudson | New York | Charming river town, antique shops, Hudson River views |
| Poughkeepsie | New York | Walkway Over the Hudson, Vassar College |
| Yonkers | New York | Final stop before New York City |
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
The Amtrak pricing structure will aid you in saving money on the cost of your journey from New York to Chicago.
| Class | Typical Price Range (One-Way) | What’s Included |
| Coach | $90 – $200+ | Spacious reclining seat, overhead storage, cafe access, free WiFi |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $400 – $800+ | Private room for 1-2 people, bed, meals included, lounge access, priority boarding |
| Bedroom (Sleeper) | $600 – $1,200+ | Larger private room, private bathroom, meals included, all sleeper perks |
| Family Bedroom | $500 – $900+ | Room for 2 adults + 2 children, meals included |
| Accessible Bedroom | $400 – $800+ | Designed for passengers with mobility needs, meals included |
Important: Prices change based on the season, demand, and the time you make reservations. Prices for sleeper tickets include meals in the dining car. This can be a huge benefit.
Best Ways to Save Money
| Strategy | How It Works | Potential Savings |
| Book Early | Amtrak uses dynamic pricing — prices increase as seats sell out | Up to 50-70% |
| Travel Midweek | Tuesday and Wednesday are typically cheapest | 10-30% |
| Use Amtrak Guest Rewards | Earn points on every trip; redeem for free travel | Varies |
| AAA Discount | 10% off for AAA members | 10% |
| Student Discount | 15% off with valid student ID (certain fares) | 15% |
| Senior Discount | 10% off for passengers 65+ | 10% |
| Military Discount | 10% off for active military and veterans | 10% |
| NARP/Rail Passengers Association | Membership discounts available | Varies |
| Amtrak Sales | Watch for seasonal promotions and flash sales | Up to 50% |
| Multi-Ride Tickets | If traveling frequently, consider 10-ride passes | Varies |
Money-Saving Tip: The most affordable fares can be discovered 11 months ahead of time, when tickets are first put on sale. Set up a price alert through Amtrak’s app or website.
Onboard Amenities on the Chicago to New York Train
Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited offers a variety of services to help make your 20+ hour journey enjoyable and relaxing.
Coach Class Amenities
| Feature | Details |
| Seating | Spacious reclining seats with ample legroom (significantly more than airlines) |
| Power Outlets | 120V outlets at every seat |
| WiFi | Free basic WiFi (available on most of the route) |
| Overhead Storage | Large overhead racks + luggage storage areas at ends of cars |
| Restrooms | Clean restrooms at the end of each car |
| Temperature Control | Individual air vents for climate control |
| Cafe Car Access | Walk to the cafe car for snacks, beverages, and light meals |
Sleeper Car Amenities
| Feature | Roomette | Bedroom |
| Bed Configuration | Two seats convert to one bed; upper berth available | Sofa converts to bed; separate upper berth |
| Private Bathroom | Shared restroom in car | En-suite private bathroom with shower |
| Meals Included | Yes — all dining car meals | Yes — all dining car meals |
| Complimentary Lounge Access | Yes (at major stations) | Yes |
| Priority Boarding | Yes | Yes |
| Turndown Service | Attendant makes your bed in the evening | Yes |
| Bottled Water & Coffee | Complimentary | Complimentary |
Dining Options
| Option | Description | Cost |
| Dining Car | Full-service restaurant with tablecloth dining; hot meals | Included with sleeper; à la carte for coach |
| Cafe Car | Self-service counter with sandwiches, snacks, beverages, pizza, hot dogs | à la carte ($3 – $15) |
| BYO Food | Passengers may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages | Free |
Observation and Lounge Areas
Although the Lake Shore Limited does not offer a Sightseer Lounge vehicle (like the western routes), Sleeper car passengers are able to access:
- Metropolitan Lounge at Chicago Union Station (complimentary with sleeper tickets)
- Relaxed seating in the dining vehicle during times when there are no meal hours.
- Ample windows in the train to enjoy a scenic view
Chicago to New York Train vs. Other Travel Options
What is the difference between trains and driving or flying? This is a complete breakdown of the train:
| Factor | Amtrak Train | Flying | Driving |
| Travel Time | ~21 hours | ~2.5 hours flight + airport time = 5-6 hours total | ~12-13 hours (nonstop) |
| Cost | $90 – $200+ (coach) | $150 – $400+ (economy) | ~$80 – $150 (gas + tolls) |
| Comfort | Excellent — walk around, lie flat (sleeper) | Cramped seats, limited legroom | Flexible but tiring |
| Scenery | Beautiful landscapes, lakes, rivers | None (clouds) | Good, but you must focus on driving |
| Stress Level | Very low | High (security, delays, cramped) | Moderate (traffic, fatigue) |
| Productivity | Excellent — WiFi, power, space | Limited | Poor (can’t work while driving) |
| Eco-Friendliness | Lowest carbon footprint | High emissions | Moderate emissions |
| Baggage | 2 carry-ons + 2 checked bags free | Fees for checked bags | Limited by vehicle space |
| City Center Access | Direct to downtown | Airport transfers required | Direct, but parking is expensive |
| Pet Friendly | Yes (small pets in carriers, fees apply) | Limited, expensive | Yes |
| Overnight Option | Yes (sleeper cars) | No |
When to Choose Each Option
| Choose Train If… | Choose Flying If… | Choose Driving If… |
| You value comfort and scenery | You’re in a hurry | You need a car at your destination |
| You want to avoid airport hassles | You found a very cheap flight | You’re traveling with a group/family |
| You have time to enjoy the journey | You need to arrive same-day | You want maximum flexibility |
| You want to work productively en route | You have tight schedule constraints | You enjoy road trips |
| You’re environmentally conscious | You have connecting flights | You’re visiting multiple stops |
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Chicago to New York Route
If you are making your first Amtrak journey, these guidelines can ensure you a comfortable trip:
Before You Board
| Tip | Details |
| Arrive Early | Get to Chicago Union Station at least 45 minutes before departure |
| Check Your Bags | Amtrak allows 2 free checked bags (50 lbs each) — take advantage if you have heavy luggage |
| Download the Amtrak App | Track your train in real-time, access your mobile ticket, and receive delay notifications |
| Pack Smart | Bring a small carry-on with essentials (toiletries, change of clothes, medications, chargers) |
| Dress in Layers | Train temperatures can vary; bring a light jacket or sweater |
During the Journey
| Tip | Details |
| Bring Snacks | While the cafe car is available, bringing your own food saves money |
| Charge Devices Early | Power outlets can be in high demand — charge during off-peak hours |
| Explore the Train | Walk to the cafe car, stretch your legs, and enjoy the observation windows |
| Be Social | The dining car uses communal seating — great for meeting fellow travelers |
| Sleep Tips (Coach) | Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs; the seats recline but aren’t beds |
At Chicago Union Station
| Feature | Details |
| Address | 225 S Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606 |
| Metropolitan Lounge | Free for sleeper passengers; $35 for coach (day pass) |
| Dining | Multiple restaurants and food courts inside the station |
| Parking | Available nearby; expect $20-40/day |
| CTA Connections | Direct access to Blue Line (to O’Hare) and multiple bus routes |
What to Do When You Arrive at Penn Station, New York
The train arrives at New York Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) following a lengthy journey. What should you do now?
Immediate Steps
| Step | Action |
| 1. Gather Your Belongings | Double-check your seat, overhead rack, and luggage storage areas |
| 2. Claim Checked Bags | If you checked luggage, proceed to the baggage claim area in Moynihan Hall |
| 3. Orient Yourself | Moynihan Train Hall is on 8th Avenue; original Penn Station is on 7th Avenue |
| 4. Use Restrooms | Facilities are available before you exit to the street |
Getting to Your Final Destination
| Destination | Best Route | Estimated Time |
| Midtown Hotels (Times Square, Herald Square) | Walk 5-15 minutes | 5-15 min |
| Downtown Manhattan (Wall Street, Financial District) | Take A/C/E subway south | 20-30 min |
| Brooklyn | Take 2/3 or A/C subway lines | 20-40 min |
| Queens | Take E subway east to Jamaica, then transfer | 30-45 min |
| JFK Airport | LIRR to Jamaica + AirTrain | 45-60 min ($15.75) |
| LaGuardia Airport | Taxi, Uber, or bus (no direct subway) | 30-60 min |
| Newark Airport | NJ Transit to Newark Airport Station + AirTrain | 30-45 min |
Nearby Attractions (Within Walking Distance)
| Attraction | Distance from Penn Station |
| Madison Square Garden | Adjacent to Penn Station |
| Empire State Building | 0.7 miles (15-minute walk) |
| Times Square | 0.5 miles (10-minute walk) |
| Koreatown | 2 blocks east on 32nd Street |
| Chelsea Market | 1.0 mile (20-minute walk or short subway) |
| High Line Park | 1.2 miles (walk north on 8th Ave to 14th St) |
Booking Your Chicago to New York Amtrak Ticket
The process of booking your train tickets is easy; however, these guidelines will allow you to find the most affordable price and seating.
How to Book
| Method | Pros | Cons |
| Amtrak Website (amtrak.com) | Best prices, full schedule, easy modifications | Requires internet |
| Amtrak Mobile App | Convenient, mobile tickets, real-time updates | Smaller screen |
| Phone (1-800-USA-RAIL) | Personal assistance, complex bookings | Wait times possible |
| Station Ticket Counter | Face-to-face help, cash payments | Lines, limited hours |
| Travel Agent | Package deals, expertise | May charge fees |
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Go to Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak application
- Select your preferred way: Chicago, IL (CHI) + New York, NY (NYP)
- Pick your dates of travel. Remember, making reservations at least 11 months ahead of time will yield the lowest prices.
- Select your type of fare, such as Business, Coach, or Sleeper
- Choose the train you want to use: Lake Shore Limited (Train 48 eastbound/Train 49 westbound)
- Select your seating or room (coach seats are allocated to sleeper rooms; coach seats are assigned)
- Fill in the details of the passenger, and use any discount coupons
- Pay the balance, and you will receive an electronic ticket
Important Booking Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Book early | Prices increase as inventory sells out |
| Be flexible with dates | Tuesday/Wednesday departures are often cheapest |
| Check for sales | Amtrak runs seasonal promotions |
| Join Guest Rewards | Earn points on every dollar spent |
| Consider a sleeper for overnight | Meals included + you arrive rested |
Best Time to Travel from Chicago to New York by Train
The timing of your travel plans can greatly affect your trip experience as well as cost.
By Season
| Season | Pros | Cons | Recommendation |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild weather, blooming landscapes | Occasional rain | Good |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Long daylight hours, vibrant scenery | Higher prices, crowded | Popular |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Spectacular fall foliage, crisp weather | Peak season pricing | Best |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Lowest prices, fewer crowds | Cold, potential weather delays | Budget-friendly |
By Day of Week
| Day | Price Level | Crowd Level | Day |
| Tuesday | Lowest | Lowest | Tuesday |
| Wednesday | Lowest | Lowest | Wednesday |
| Thursday | Moderate | Moderate | Thursday |
| Monday | Moderate | Moderate | Monday |
Best Time for Scenic Views
The Hudson River Valley stretch (Albany up to New York City) is gorgeous during the following times:
- Sunrise (eastbound): The sunrise over the Hudson River. Hudson River
- Fall Foliage Season: End of September to early November. You can book months ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cost of the train ride from Chicago up to New York cost?
The cost of coach tickets is typically $100 to $200+ one-way, based the time you reserve your tickets and on the date of travel. Accommodations for sleepers (roomettes or bedrooms) can range between $400-$1,200 and includes all meals served in the restaurant car. Prices change and can increase in the event that trains are full and so it is best to book your accommodation in advance for the lowest rates.
2. How long will the journey by train between Chicago from Chicago to New York?
It takes around 2 hours eastbound and approximately 20 hours westbound. Lake Shore Limited Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that departs Chicago at night and arrive in New York the following evening. Though it’s longer than flying most travelers find the night time schedule to be convenient. rest through the Midwest and awake to stunning Hudson River views.
3. Is there WiFi on the Chicago to New York train?
Absolutely, Amtrak provides free basic WiFi for passengers on the Lake Shore Limited, though it is not always available in areas with poor connectivity. The WiFi is ideal to browse, send emails, and streaming. If you are working on a large scale or have streaming demands, think about bringing the mobile hotspot for backup. The power outlets are in every place.
4. Can I bring food and drinks on the train?
Yes! Amtrak encourages passengers to bring drinks and food items, as well as non-alcoholic ones. A lot of experienced travelers bring snacks, sandwiches, and beverages to cut costs. There is also cafe cars that serve hot meals, snacks as well as beverages to purchase as well as sleeper passengers can enjoy free meals served in eating car.
5. Are pets allowed on the Chicago to New York train?
Amtrak allows small pets (cats as well as dogs less than 20 pounds) to be carried in their carriers aboard the Lake Shore Limited. The pet fee is (typically approximately $30) which is payable in advance, and the pet must stay in their carriers beneath your seat during the whole travel. Prior reservations are necessary since there’s a restriction of five pets on each train. Animals that are service animals are welcome for free.
6. What is the difference between Coach and Sleeper accommodations?
Coach Class has reclining seating with plenty of legroom. There is overhead storage space, access into the cafe vehicle as well as shared bathrooms at the bottom of each car. Food is not includedYou pay for food inside the cafe car, or take your own.
Sleeper accommodations offer private rooms that have beds that can be converted into sitting in the morning. Roomettes sleep up to 2 guests and share a bathroom inside the vehicle, while bedrooms provide a more personal space that has an ensuite bathroom with shower. The sleeper prices include food in the dining car and priority boarding.
7. Does the train have checked baggage service?
Yes it is true that the Lake Shore Limited offers checked baggage services in each of Chicago Union Station and New York Penn Station. The passengers can each take up to two bags for free (50 pounds each, or 75 inches of linear) and carry two baggage bags with carry-ons at the time of their travel. All checked baggage has to be picked up at the point of departure and not transported to your seat, or sleeping area.
8. What happens if my train is delayed?
The frequency of delays is high for this particular route because of the traffic on freight trains and the weather. If a train delays, Amtrak will provide updates through the app, on its website as well as on-board announcements. The company does not offer monetary reimbursements in the event of delays, however there is a chance to receive an award in exceptional circumstances. If you are unable to make a connection because of delays caused by Amtrak, Amtrak can rebook you for the next available train cost. Insurance is highly recommended to cover time-sensitive travel.
9. Is the Chicago to New York train safe?
The answer is yes, Amtrak trains are extremely secure. They are also very secure. Lake Shore Limited has onboard personnel available 24 hours a day, and stations are watched. Coach cars are well-lit as are sleeper vehicles, which have locks in the each room. Like any other trip ensure that your valuables are secured and remain conscious of the surroundings. Amtrak is also a strict adherence to security and health protocols.
10. Can I get off the train at intermediate stops and reboard?
The , Amtrak tickets are valid for a particular train on a certain date. If you plan to travel to cities on that line (like Cleveland or Buffalo) then you’ll need purchase tickets separately to each part of the route. But, the Amtrak USA Rail Pass (available seasonally) lets you visit multiple segments during the time frame specifiedvisit Amtrak.com to see current availability and prices.