Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI train with Amtrak

Thu, Apr 02
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$59

Average price

$127

Fastest journey

3 h 55 m

Average duration

9 h 2 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

278 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Chicago, IL for East Lansing, MI on Thu, Apr 02, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 9 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 55 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 11 h 35 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.

  • Amtrak364 Blue Water
    4:00 PM3h55
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    8:55 PMEast Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI
    $591One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak448 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
    9:30 PM11h35
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    10:05 AMEast Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI
    $1531One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
    9:30 PM11h35
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    10:05 AMEast Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI
    $1701One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 25m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $93.

Distance: 172 miles (278 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

$72

Average price

Cheapest

$73

Average price

$335

Average price

4h 28m

Average total duration

3h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 37m

Average total duration

5h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 25m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.7kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK2:30 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
11h35
2:05 PM East Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI1 transfer
amtrak448 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK2:30 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
11h35
2:05 PM East Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Thu
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
Sat
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI?

The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€26) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:45, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 3h 55m.

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
172 miles (278 km)
Average train duration
3h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$31 (€26)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 55m
First train
6:45 AM
Last train
9:30 PM
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

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI from $31 (€26). 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 Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€26)
Amtrak frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€26), while the average price is around $72 (€59).
The train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI takes 3h 55m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI leaves at 6:45 AM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is 172 miles (278 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to East Lansing, MI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to East Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is by train, with a cost of around $31 (€26).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, featuring views of the bustling Chicago skyline, the industrial landscapes of northern Indiana, and the serene countryside of southern Michigan.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 55m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a feasible day trip. Trains operate 3 times per day on this route.
To fully explore East Lansing, MI, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient to enjoy its key attractions, including Michigan State University, local parks, and cultural sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor East Lansing, MI are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from East Lansing, MI include Kalamazoo, MI, Flint, MI, Battle Creek, MI, Dowagiac, MI.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In East Lansing, MI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially around crowded areas like Michigan State University events. Common scams include fake ticket sellers and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use authorized transportation and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI

Chicago
East Lansing
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to East Lansing.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • 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.
Dining
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
  • Hall 2: Metra services
  • Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line

Most popular trains to and from East Lansing, MI and Chicago, IL

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