Previously seen trips

Next departures for Columbus to Chicago on September 3
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location
Train	4:18pm	Columbus Amtrak	3h 3m	7:21pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL
Train	4:23pm	Columbus Amtrak	4h 41m	9:04pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL
Train	1:47pm	Columbus Amtrak	2h 58m	4:45pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL
Train	1:47pm	Columbus Amtrak	5h 34m	7:21pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL
Train	4:23pm	Columbus Amtrak	4h 41m	9:04pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL

Compare 2 ways to go from Columbus to Chicago

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach Chicago. The journey takes about 2 hours 58 minutes, and with fares starting at just $34, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

3train per day

2h 58mAverage Duration

198 kmDistance

18kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions	Actions
Bus	Average Price$80 - $82	Average Duration5h 45m	CO₂ emissions 4kg CO₂e
Train	Average Price$34 - $587	Average Duration2h 58m	CO₂ emissions 18kg CO₂e

Train companies

Amtrak

4.1/56,476 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.5

Wi‑Fi3.6

Based on 6476 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the Wi‑Fi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at $34

US train companies:Amtrak, Amtrak Acela, Brightline

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Columbus, WI to Chicago by train

Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.

How much is the train ticket from Columbus to Chicago?
The cheapest train tickets from Columbus to Chicago start at $34. The average price for this train route is around $74. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance to increase your chances of getting the lowest possible price.
How long is the train ride from Columbus to Chicago?
The average train trip from Columbus to Chicago takes 2h 58m and covers 198 km. The quickest train gets you there in 2h 58m and is operated by Amtrak.
Which train operators serve the Columbus to Chicago route?
Several major train operators serve this route, with 3 trains available per day.
What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Columbus to Chicago?
The earliest train from Columbus to Chicago departs at 1:47pm. The latest train departs at 4:23pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

09-01

$40

09-02

$34

Today

$34

09-04

$70

09-05

$32

09-06

$50

09-07

$63

09-08

$32

The cheapest trip from Columbus, WI to Chicago was searched and found on Sep 5, 2026 with a price of $32

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Columbus, WI to Chicago, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $32 to $850 for a train ticket from Columbus, WI to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $32 which is on 2026-09-05.

What's the cheapest way to go from Columbus, WI to Chicago?

The Train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

Vehicle Type	Travel time	Avg Price	Daily Departures
Vehicle TypeBus	Travel time5h 45m	Avg Price$82	Daily Departures2
Vehicle TypeTrain	Travel time2h 58m	Avg Price$74	Daily Departures3

The best way to travel between Columbus, WI and Chicago is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $74 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $34. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Chicago, choose the train, as it will take you from Columbus, WI to Chicago in about 2h 58m —that's the fastest way to get there!