Washington to Chicago by Train

Travel from Washington Union Station in Washington, DC to Chicago Union Station in Chicago, IL on the Cardinal. Approximately 860 miles in 17h 22m.

About this trip

The Cardinal connects Washington and Chicago directly, with no transfer required. The train operates three round trips per week, and the segment between these two stations is one of 86 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 860 rail miles takes about 17h 22m on a typical schedule. Actual travel time varies with the specific train number, time of day, equipment used, and seasonal speed restrictions. Trains may run faster on the daylight schedules and slower at peak demand on shared-use trackage. A more granular schedule comparison can be found in independent corridor timetable reviews updated each season.

Things to look out for: New River Gorge in West Virginia, with cliffs, whitewater, and the New River Gorge Bridge — easily one of the most spectacular stretches of passenger rail anywhere east of the Rockies.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Washington and Chicago typically run between $83 and $421. The lower end represents Saver-bucket advance-purchase coach fares, while the upper end approximates same-day walk-up fares or premium-class buckets. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight runs of the Cardinal, when offered, are sold separately from rail fare and increase total ticket cost substantially.

RailRover does not sell tickets. To book this trip, visit the operating carrier (Amtrak) directly. Discounted fares are typically available with advance purchase, on midweek departures, and through loyalty programs. Several travelers track historical fare patterns on the corridor fare-watch newsletter to time their bookings.

Stations along the way

Between Washington and Chicago, the Cardinal calls at the following stations. Some trains may operate as "limited-stop" schedules and skip certain intermediate calls; check the published timetable for your departure.

• Washington Union Station — Washington, DC WAS
• Alexandria, VA — Alexandria, VA ALX
• Manassas — Manassas, VA MSS
• Culpeper — Culpeper, VA COP
• Charlottesville Union Station — Charlottesville, VA CVS
• Staunton — Staunton, VA STA
• Clifton Forge — Clifton Forge, VA CLF
• Charleston, WV — Charleston, WV CHW
• Huntington, WV — Huntington, WV HUN
• South Portsmouth — South Portsmouth, KY SPM
• Maysville — Maysville, KY MAY
• Cincinnati Union Terminal — Cincinnati, OH CIN
• Connersville — Connersville, IN COI
• Indianapolis Union Station — Indianapolis, IN IND
• Crawfordsville — Crawfordsville, IN CRF
• Chicago Union Station — Chicago, IL CHI

Getting to Washington Union Station and from Chicago Union Station

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Washington Union Station sits in Washington, DC; arrival at Chicago Union Station places you in Chicago, IL. Transfers from the platform to onward bus, light rail, or rideshare are well marked at the major hubs along this route. For specific transit connections at either station, see our station guides linked above.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from Washington to Chicago take?

Approximately 17h 22m on a typical schedule, covering about 860 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Cardinal operates three round trips per week with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $83 to $421 for a one-way coach ticket. Premium classes and sleeping car accommodations cost more.

Can I bring a bicycle or pet?

Most long-distance and corridor trains accept checked or carry-on bicycles and small pets in carriers, with route-specific rules. Confirm with Amtrak at the time of booking.