The average train between Washington DC and Chicago takes 17h 50m and the fastest train takes 17h 48m. There is at least one train per day from Washington DC to Chicago. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Trains run once daily between Washington DC and Chicago. The earliest departure is at 3:54 PM in the afternoon, and the last departure from Washington DC is at 3:57 PM which arrives into Chicago at 8:45 AM. All services require a transfer at Metro Center, Red Line Track 1 Platform and take an average of 17h 50m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.
Want to know about travelling from Washington DC to Chicago? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as: What is the cheapest mode of transport? What is the quickest option? How much do tickets usually cost? and many more.
No, there is no direct train from Washington DC to Chicago. However, there are services departing from Washington DC station and arriving at Chicago station via Chicago Union Station station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 17h 50m.
Washington DC to Chicago train services, operated by Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, depart from Washington Union Station.
Washington DC to Chicago train services, operated by Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, arrive at Chicago Union Station.
The distance between Washington DC and Chicago is 955.5 km. The road distance is 1,239 km.
Amtrak operates a train from Washington Union Station to Chicago Union Station once daily. Tickets cost $210–470 and the journey takes 17h 40m.
