The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago route is served by the California Zephyr and Southwest Chief, offering daily departures from Burlington, Iowa to Chicago Union Station. The trip takes about 4–5 hours, covering scenic views along the Mississippi River and Midwest farmlands. Travelers enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi‑Fi, dining options, and checked baggage service. Tickets can be booked online at Amtrak.com, with flexible fares and business class upgrades available. This route is popular with commuters, students, and tourists looking for a convenient, eco‑friendly way to reach Chicago.
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes Overview
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes Overview
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes Overview provides a clear look at how travelers can journey between Burlington and Chicago. This route typically requires at least one transfer, commonly through cities like Albany, New York, or New York City, and offers comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi on select trains. The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes Overview highlights flexible schedules, scenic views along the way, and reliable service, making it a convenient, stress-free, and budget-friendly option for long-distance travel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Route Name | Amtrak Burlington to Chicago |
| Starting Station | Burlington Station (Burlington, VT) |
| Ending Station | Chicago Union Station (Chicago, IL) |
| Distance | Approximately 1,050 miles (1,690 km) |
| Average Travel Time | About 19–22 hours (with transfers) |
| Daily Departures | Limited; typically 1–2 departures daily |
| Train Services | Coach Class, Business Class, Sleeping Cars, Café Car |
| Wi-Fi Availability | Free Wi-Fi on select trains |
| Power Outlets | Available at most seats |
| Scenic Highlights | Vermont countryside, Hudson Valley, New York State landscapes, Midwest farmlands |
| Major Stops | Essex Junction, Albany-Rensselaer, New York City, Buffalo, Cleveland, Toledo |
| Ticket Price Range | $120 – $400+ (one-way, varies by class and booking time) |
| Baggage Policy | 2 carry-on + 2 personal items free; checked baggage allowed on select trains |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-accessible stations and restrooms; assistance available |
| Popular Connections | New York City, Albany, Cleveland, Toledo |
| Best Route for Direct Travel | Via Vermonter + connecting services (e.g., Lake Shore Limited) |
| Best Travel Option | Comfortable, scenic, and reliable long-distance travel with Amtrak |
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Routes offer a convenient and scenic way to travel between Burlington, VT and Chicago, IL. With at least one connection via cities like Albany, New York City, or Buffalo, the route features comfortable seating, sleeping cars, café service, and Wi-Fi on select trains. Covering over 1,000 miles in 19–22 hours, passengers can enjoy scenic views of Vermont, New York, and the Midwest. These routes provide flexible schedules, accessible stations, and generous baggage policies, making travel stress-free and enjoyable.
| Train Name / Number | Route | Departure (Burlington) | Arrival (Chicago) | Frequency / Notes | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermonter + Lake Shore Limited | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning / Afternoon | Next day evening | Requires transfer in New York City or Albany; popular long-distance route | 19h – 22h |
| Vermonter + Connecting Services | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning / Midday | Next day | Flexible schedules; connections through Albany and Buffalo | 20h – 23h |
| Overnight Route | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Evening | Following evening | Ideal for overnight travel; sleeping cars available | 21h – 24h |
| Scenic Day Route | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning | Night | Offers scenic views of Vermont, New York, and Midwest | 19h – 22h |
| Limited Service / Seasonal | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Varies | Varies | Runs on select days; may require multiple connections | 20h – 25h |
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Schedule
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Schedule offers convenient travel with at least one connection, usually via Albany, New York City, or Buffalo. Departures are available in the morning, midday, and evening, with travel times of 19–22 hours. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, sleeping cars, café service, and Wi-Fi on select trains. With accessible stations, generous baggage policies, and scenic views, the Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Schedule provides a reliable and enjoyable long-distance journey.
| Service Name | Route | Typical Departure Times | Typical Arrival Times | Frequency | Avg. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermonter + Lake Shore Limited | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning / Afternoon | Next day evening | Daily service | 19h – 22h |
| Vermonter + Connecting Services | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning / Midday | Next day | Daily service | 20h – 23h |
| Overnight Route | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Evening | Following evening | Limited departures | 21h – 24h |
| Scenic Day Route | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Morning | Night | Select departures | 19h – 22h |
| Seasonal / Limited Service | Burlington ⇄ Chicago | Varies | Varies | Limited / seasonal | 20h – 25h |
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Ticket Prices
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Ticket Prices range from $120 to $400+ depending on class, travel date, and advance booking. The route usually requires one connection via Albany, New York City, or Buffalo. Passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, and café service. Flexible and refundable tickets are available, while value fares offer budget-friendly options. Check the Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Ticket Prices online or via the Amtrak app for the best deals and discounts.
| Train Service | Service Type | Class | Ticket Type | Refundable? | One-Way Ticket Price (Approx.) | Discounts Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermonter + Lake Shore Limited | Long-Distance / Transfer | Coach Class | Value / Flexible | Value: NoFlexible: Yes | $120 – $200 | Student, Senior, Military |
| Vermonter + Lake Shore Limited | Long-Distance / Transfer | Business Class | Flexible | Yes | $250 – $400+ | Limited discounts |
| Overnight / Sleeping Car | Long-Distance / Transfer | Sleeping Car | Flexible | Yes | $300 – $450+ | Senior, Military |
| Scenic Day Route | Long-Distance / Transfer | Coach Class | Value | No | $130 – $220 | Student, Senior, Military |
| Seasonal / Limited Service | Long-Distance / Transfer | Coach / Sleeping | Value / Flexible | Value: NoFlexible: Yes | $140 – $400+ | Student, Senior, Military |
Amtrak Comfort: Burlington to Chicago
Traveling on the Amtrak Burlington to Chicago route is a convenient and relaxing way to reach Chicago Union Station from Burlington, Iowa. Served by the California Zephyr and Southwest Chief, this journey takes about 4–5 hours and offers passengers a comfortable ride with scenic views of the Mississippi River and Midwest farmlands.
Key Highlights of Amtrak Comfort
- Daily Service – Trains depart Burlington daily with direct service to Chicago Union Station.
- Travel Time – Approximately 4–5 hours, covering around 193 miles (311 km).
- Comfortable Seating – Spacious, reclining seats with ample legroom.
- Free Wi‑Fi – Stay connected throughout your trip.
- Dining Options – Café service with snacks, drinks, and light meals.
- Baggage Service – Carry‑on and checked baggage available.
- Eco‑Friendly Travel – A sustainable alternative to driving or flying.
- Flexible Tickets – Affordable fares, business class upgrades, and Amtrak Guest Rewards points.
- Chicago Union Station Access – Easy connections to Metra commuter trains, buses, and attractions like Willis Tower and the Riverwalk.
Check Here: Amtrak Station Near Me
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago vs. Other Travel Options
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago vs. Other Travel Options comparison shows that train travel is often the best choice. Amtrak offers spacious seating, onboard amenities, Wi-Fi, and scenic views. Unlike driving, it avoids traffic and parking hassles. Buses are cheaper but less comfortable, and flying is faster but more expensive with security delays. Overall, Amtrak Burlington to Chicago vs. Other Travel Options highlights a reliable, relaxing, and budget-friendly journey.
| Feature | Amtrak (Burlington to Chicago) | Car / Driving | Bus (e.g., Greyhound / Megabus) | Flying |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 19h – 22h (with connections) | 6h – 7h (traffic dependent) | 9h – 13h | 4h – 6h (including airport time) |
| Schedule Frequency | Daily departures | Fully flexible | Limited daily departures | Limited / specific times |
| Cost (One-Way) | $120 – $400+ | Fuel + tolls + parking ($120 – $180) | $60 – $120 | $150 – $400+ |
| Booking Flexibility | Easy online/app booking | No advance booking needed | Online/app booking | Early booking required |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, reclining, sleeping cars | Vehicle dependent | Basic seating | Less legroom, security process |
| Wi-Fi / Connectivity | Free Wi-Fi on select trains | Depends on vehicle | Limited or none | Airline dependent |
| Onboard Amenities | Café car, restrooms, power outlets | Vehicle dependent | Rare | Snacks/drinks vary |
| Scenic Views | Yes — Vermont, New York, Midwest | Yes — roadside views | Yes — roadside views | Limited |
| Reliability | Less affected by traffic | Traffic & weather dependent | Road delays possible | Weather & air traffic delays |
| Eco-Friendliness | High — lower emissions per passenger | Low — single-vehicle emissions | Medium | Low — highest emissions |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-accessible stations & assistance | Vehicle dependent | Varies by carrier | Airport assistance available |
| Parking | Available at stations | Varies; often paid | Not usually needed | Airport parking required |
| Best For | Relaxed, scenic long-distance travel | Door-to-door flexibility | Budget travelers | Fastest for long distances |
| Ideal Travelers | Leisure, business, eco-conscious | Families or groups | Budget-focused travelers | Business travelers, long-distance flyers |
| Extra Perks | Smooth ride, scenic views, Wi-Fi, power outlets | Full privacy | Lowest fares | Faster only for long trips |
Amtrak Burlington to Chicago Travel Tips
Traveling on the Amtrak Burlington to Chicago routes is a comfortable and scenic way to reach Chicago Union Station from Burlington, Iowa. Whether you’re a first‑time rider or a frequent traveler, these tips will help you make the most of your journey.
Essential Travel Tips
- Book Early – Reserve tickets in advance on Amtrak.com to secure the best fares and seating.
- Know the Schedule – The California Zephyr and Southwest Chief serve Burlington daily, with a travel time of about 4–5 hours.
- Choose Your Seat – Business class offers extra comfort, while coach provides affordable options with spacious seating.
- Pack Smart – Amtrak allows carry‑on and checked baggage; label your bags for easy identification.
- Stay Connected – Free Wi‑Fi is available, so bring devices and chargers for work or entertainment.
- Bring Snacks – Café service is available, but packing light snacks and water adds convenience.
- Enjoy the Views – The route offers scenic sights of the Mississippi River and Midwest farmlands.
- Plan Arrival in Chicago – Chicago Union Station connects easily to Metra commuter trains, buses, and attractions like Willis Tower and the Riverwalk.
- Eco‑Friendly Choice – Train travel is more sustainable compared to driving or flying.
- Flexible Options – Amtrak offers refundable fares and Guest Rewards points for frequent travelers.
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Conclusion
The Amtrak Burlington to Chicago route offers a comfortable, scenic, and stress-free way to travel between Burlington, VT, and Chicago, IL. With spacious seating, sleeping cars, café service, and Wi-Fi on select trains, it provides a relaxing alternative to driving, bus travel, or flying. Although the journey requires at least one connection, the route delivers reliable schedules, generous baggage policies, and beautiful views along the way. For leisure and business travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and an enjoyable long-distance experience, Amtrak Burlington to Chicago is an excellent choice.
FAQs on Amtrak Burlington to Chicago
Yes, Amtrak offers direct service from Burlington, Iowa to Chicago Union Station.
The California Zephyr and Southwest Chief both serve Burlington to Chicago.
The journey takes about 4–5 hours. It’s approximately 193 miles (311 km).
At least two daily trains operate via the Zephyr and Chief.
Fares usually range from $31–$70 depending on booking time and class.
Yes, flexible fares are refundable before departure.
Free Wi‑Fi, café service, restrooms, and spacious seating.
Yes, carry‑on and checked baggage are allowed.
Yes, café service offers snacks, drinks, and light meals.
Small pets are allowed with reservations on certain trains.
At Chicago Union Station, Amtrak’s main hub.
Yes, business class offers extra comfort and rewards points.
