The cheapest and fastest trains from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$214
Average price
$214
Fastest journey
10 h 33 m
Average duration
10 h 33 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
729 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $214 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $214.
Of the 1 trains that leave Buffalo, NY for Chicago, IL on Fri, Nov 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 10 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 33 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 10 h 33 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.
49 Lake Shore Limited
49 Lake Shore LimitedTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €48, and a flight costs an average of €77.
Distance: 452 miles (729 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€173 Average price | €84 Average price Cheapest | €241 Average price |
11h 3m Average total duration 10h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 56m Average total duration 12h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 54m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
49 Lake Shore Limited | 5:39 AM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 10h33 | 4:12 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Distance 452 miles (729 km) |
Average train duration 10h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 (€67) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 10h 33m |
First train 00:39 |
Last train 21:30 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL start from as low as $82 (€67) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $212 (€173) depending on the train type and class.
Train companies: Amtrak, VIA Rail from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak, VIA Rail trains will get you between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL from $60 (€48). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
VIA Rail
Traveling by train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
The train connection between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities. Operated by Amtrak, the journey offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures daily, passengers can easily plan their trip while enjoying onboard amenities that make travel enjoyable. Whether you're heading to Buffalo's rich history or Chicago's bustling urban landscape, this rail service provides an efficient link between two iconic American destinations.
Train Connection: Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL takes approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes. There is 1 connection per day for this route; however, the trains are not direct. Passengers can expect a layover of about 1 hour and 53 minutes during their trip.
Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Buffalo at 4:39 AM and arrives in Chicago at 5:39 AM. This early morning connection allows travelers to start their day with a scenic ride between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Buffalo to Chicago is $66 (59.4€). The average ticket price tends to be around $113 (101.7€), making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Landmarks
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper not only symbolizes Chicago's architectural innovation but also offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass ledges that extend four feet outside of the building! As we explore this landmark, you'll discover how it has become a vital part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience our city's grandeur.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant urban oasis that showcases art and culture at every turn. The park features unique attractions like Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—which reflects both visitors and stunning cityscapes while serving as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. With its lush gardens, interactive fountains, and outdoor concert venues such as Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park truly embodies Chicago's spirit of creativity and community engagement.
Finally, let’s head over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination opened in 1916 that stretches along Lake Michigan with endless entertainment options. It boasts unique features like rides at Pier Park—including one of America's largest Ferris wheels—and hosts cultural events throughout the year at places like Aon Grand Ballroom or Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Whether you're looking to enjoy scenic boat tours or indulge your taste buds with local cuisine at various eateries along this lively pier area, Navy Pier promises unforgettable experiences against a backdrop of beautiful lakefront views.
FAQs: Trains from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Buffalo, NY
More options for your journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
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