Traveling from Boston to Chicago by train is a scenic and comfortable journey made possible by Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited service. Whether you’re planning a business trip, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, this route offers a unique way to experience the heart of America. In this page, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Amtrak Boston to Chicago route, including cost, schedule, stops, and travel tips.
Overview of Amtrak Boston to Chicago
Traveling from Boston to Chicago by Amtrak is a comfortable and scenic journey. The train is called the Lake Shore Limited, and it leaves from Boston South Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Train Name | Lake Shore Limited |
| Departure Station | Boston (South Station or Back Bay) |
| Arrival Station | Chicago Union Station |
| Travel Time | 22-23 hours |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Departure Time (Boston) | 12:50 PM (ET) |
| Arrival Time (Chicago) | 9:45 AM (CT) next day |
| Ticket Cost (Coach) | $100 – $200 (one way) |
| Sleeper Cabin (Roomette) | $300 – $600 (includes meals) |
| Major Stops | Albany-Rensselaer (NY), Syracuse (NY), Buffalo-Depew (NY), Cleveland (OH), Toledo (OH) |
| Onboard Amenities | Coach seating, Wi-Fi (limited), café car, sleeper options, scenic views |
| Booking Website | Amtrak Official Site |
Routes of Amtrak Boston to Chicago
Amtrak runs a train called the Lake Shore Limited that goes from Boston, Massachusetts to Chicago, Illinois. This train runs once every day.
| Route | Train(s) Used | Transfer Point | Schedule (Depart → Arrive) | Travel Time | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary (Lake Shore Limited) | Lake Shore Limited (Boston section joins main train) | Albany-Rensselaer (no reboarding) | BOS: 12:50 PM → CHI: 9:45 AM (next day) | 22–23 hrs | Worcester, Springfield, Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland, Toledo |
| Via New York City | Acela/Northeast Regional (BOS→NYP) Lake Shore Limited (NYP→CHI) | New York (Penn Station) | BOS→NYP: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM (multiple) NYP→CHI: 3:40 PM → 9:45 AM (next day) | 24–26 hrs | Providence, NYC, Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland |
| Via Washington, D.C. | Northeast Regional (BOS→WAS) Capitol Limited (WAS→CHI) | Washington, D.C. (Union Station) | BOS→WAS: 6:00 AM–7:00 PM (multiple) WAS→CHI: 4:05 PM → 8:45 AM (next day) | 26–30 hrs | NYC, Philadelphia, D.C., Pittsburgh, Cleveland |
| Multi-Train (Flexible) | Northeast Regional (BOS→NYP) Pennsylvanian (NYP→PIT) Capitol Limited (PIT→CHI) | New York + Pittsburgh | Varies (multiple combos) | 30+ hrs | NYC, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Chicago |
Amtrak Boston to Chicago Schedule
The Lake Shore Limited is Amtrak’s daily train service connecting Boston, MA to Chicago, IL. It departs from Boston South Station at 12:50 PM and arrives at Chicago Union Station at 10:12 AM the next day. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 22 minutes, offering a comfortable overnight ride through scenic regions of the Northeast and Midwest.
Here’s the current Amtrak Boston to Chicago schedule for the Lake Shore Limited train:
| Route | Train Number | Departure (Boston) | Arrival (Chicago) | Travel Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Connection | Lake Shore Limited (Train 448/448) | 12:50 PM (South Station) | 9:45 AM (Next Day) | 20h 55m | Daily |
| Via New York City | Northeast Regional #170 Lake Shore Limited #48 | 7:15 AM (South Station) 3:40 PM (NY Penn) | 9:45 AM (Next Day) | 26h 30m | Daily |
| Via New York City | Acela #2153 Lake Shore Limited #48 | 11:05 AM (South Station) 3:40 PM (NY Penn) | 9:45 AM (Next Day) | 22h 40m | Daily |
| Via Washington DC | Northeast Regional #94 Capitol Limited #30 | 6:20 AM (South Station) 4:05 PM (DC Union) | 8:45 AM (Next Day) | 26h 25m | Daily |
Train Fares: Boston to Chicago with Amtrak
Traveling from Boston to Chicago by Amtrak offers a range of ticket options to suit different budgets and comfort levels. The route is served by the Lake Shore Limited, a long-distance train known for its scenic views and overnight service.
| Ticket Type | Price Range (One Way) | Discounts Available |
|---|---|---|
| Coach Seat | $110 – $250 | Saver Fare (21+ day advance) Student (10%) Senior (10%) Military |
| Business Class | $300 – $500 | Amtrak Guest Rewards |
| Roomette | $400 – $800 | Early Bird (limited) |
| Bedroom | $700 – $1,200 | AAA (10%) |
| Family Bedroom | $900 – $1,500 | Children (50% off 2-12) |
Amtrak Comfort: Boston to Chicago
Traveling from Boston to Chicago on Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited offers a blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic beauty—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed journey over air travel.
Seating & Space
- Coach Class: Spacious reclining seats with ample legroom and personal tray tables.
- Roomettes & Bedrooms: Private cabins with beds, climate control, and access to showers and restrooms.
- Business Class (on connecting segments): Extra legroom and quieter cars.
Dining & Refreshments
- Café Car: Available to all passengers with snacks, beverages, and light meals.
- Dining Car: For sleeper car passengers, offering hot meals and table service.
- Included Meals: Complimentary for Roomette and Bedroom travelers.
Onboard Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi (limited in remote areas)
- Power outlets at every seat
- Clean restrooms in every car
- Luggage storage and carry-on space
Amtrak Boston to Chicago vs Other Travel Options
Amtrak Boston to Chicago versus other popular travel options like flying, driving, and taking the bus:
| Option | Duration | Cost (One Way) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak (Lake Shore Limited) | 20-23 hours | $110-$250 (Coach) $400-$800 (Roomette) | Scenic views Spacious seats No baggage fees City center to city center | Long travel time Delays possible Limited schedules | Leisure travelers, eco-conscious, no-fly travelers |
| Flight | 2.5-3.5 hours (flight + transit) | $80-$300 (Economy) | Fastest option Multiple daily flights Frequent sales | Airport hassles Baggage fees Less comfortable | Business travelers, time-sensitive trips |
| Bus (Greyhound/Peter Pan) | 22-26 hours | $50-$150 | Cheapest option Multiple departures | Least comfortable Traffic delays Limited legroom | Budget travelers, students |
| Driving | 14-16 hours (986 miles) | $180-$250 (gas + tolls) | Full flexibility Stop anywhere Carry more luggage | Tiring Parking costs Weather risks | Road trippers, families with gear |
| Rideshare (Blablacar) | 16-18 hours | $60-$100 (shared) | Social option Cheaper than driving alone | Unpredictable schedules Safety concerns | Solo travelers on budget |
Amtrak Boston to Chicago Travel Tips
Planning to travel from Boston to Chicago by Amtrak? Here are some helpful travel tips to make your journey on the Lake Shore Limited smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable:
| Category | Tips | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Booking | Book 3+ months early for lowest fares Use Amtrak Guest Rewards for discounts Check for “Night Owl” discounts (late-night departures) | Sleepers sell out fast; prices rise closer to travel |
| Packing | Bring layers (train temperatures vary) Pack entertainment (limited WiFi) Carry snacks/water (café car closes overnight) | Trains can get cold; WiFi may be spotty in rural areas |
| Boarding | Arrive 45 mins early at South Station Check luggage early if needed (limited space) Have printed/digital ticket ready | Boston stations can be busy; reduces stress |
| Onboard | Stretch legs during longer stops (Albany, Syracuse) Charge devices at your seat (outlets available) Ask attendants for help with connections | Prevents stiffness; ensures you don’t miss transfers |
| Comfort | Upgrade to a roomette for overnight trips Bring a neck pillow/blanket for coach Noise-canceling headphones help with train sounds | Sleepers include meals and privacy |
| Scenic Stops | Hudson Valley views (after Albany) Lake Erie shoreline (near Cleveland) Best photos in daylight (sit on the left side westbound) | Don’t miss the prettiest sections! |
| Connections | Auto-transfer in Albany (no reboarding) NYC transfers: Allow 2+ hours between trains Track delays via Amtrak app | Avoids missed connections |
| Food | Flexible Dining (included for sleepers) Café car for coach (burgers, snacks) BYO alcohol (sleeper passengers only) | Saves money; more options |
| Safety | Keep valuables close in coach Use luggage tags (checked bags) Report issues to attendant immediately | Prevents loss/theft |
| Arrival | Chicago Union Station has taxis/Lyft ready Check departure boards for gate info Allow time for baggage claim | Easy exit to downtown Chicago |
Check Other Route: Amtrak New York to Boston
Conclusion
The Amtrak Boston to Chicago journey aboard the Lake Shore Limited offers a rare blend of comfort, scenery, and convenience. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or simply to enjoy the ride, this overnight train provides a relaxed alternative to flying or driving. With spacious seating, sleeper options, onboard dining, and stunning views of the Northeast and Midwest, it’s more than just transportation—it’s an experience.
FAQs on Amtrak Burlington to NYC
No, but the Lake Shore Limited requires no train change (just an auto-connection in Albany). It’s the closest to direct, taking 23 hours.
The Lake Shore Limited departs Boston daily at 12:50 PM and arrives in Chicago the next morning at 10:12 AM.
Fares start at $110 (Coach) and go up to $1,500 (Family Bedroom). Book early for the best prices.
Approximately 22–23 hours on the Lake Shore Limited. Routes with transfers (via NYC/DC) take 24–30 hours.
• Reclining seats
• Café car
• Limited WiFi
• Sleeper cabins (Roomettes/Bedrooms)
• Power outlets
• Scenic views.
Key stops include Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Cleveland, Toledo, and South Bend before reaching Chicago.
Yes! Small pets (up to 20 lbs) are allowed for $39 (advance reservation required). Not available in sleepers.
Booking 2–3 weeks in advance often secures the best fares, especially for sleeper accommodations.
Absolutely! Round-trip bookings are available and may offer better value than two one-way tickets.
Yes! The train passes through the Mohawk Valley, Erie Canal, and along Lake Michigan, offering beautiful views.