How much is the train ticket from Chicago to Detroit Lakes?

The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Detroit Lakes start from R 1 184. The average price for this train route is around R 3 914. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.

How long is the train journey from Chicago to Detroit Lakes?

The average train ride duration from Chicago to Detroit Lakes is 12h 1m, covering a distance of 529 miles (853 km). The quickest train can get you there in 12h 1m and is operated by Amtrak .

Which train operators service the Chicago to Detroit Lakes route?

Several major train operators operate on this route with 1 trains available per day.

What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from Chicago to Detroit Lakes?

The earliest train departs from Chicago to Detroit Lakes at 11:10am. And the latest train departs at 3:05pm.

Train Chicago to Detroit Lakes from R 1 124 | Refundable Tickets

Previously seen trips

Next departures for Chicago to Detroit Lakes on April 23
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended
Train	11:10am	Chicago (Union Station), IL	15h 56m	3:06am	White Earth Transit Station	No tags
Train	3:05pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	12h 1m	3:06am	White Earth Transit Station	No tags
Train	11:10am	Chicago (Union Station), IL	15h 56m	3:06am	White Earth Transit Station	No tags
Train	11:10am	Chicago (Union Station), IL	15h 56m	3:06am	White Earth Transit Station	No tags
Train	3:05pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	12h 1m	3:06am	White Earth Transit Station	No tags

Compare 2 ways to go from Chicago to Detroit Lakes

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach Detroit Lakes. The journey takes about 12 hours 1 minute and with fares starting at just R 1 184, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1train per day

12h 1mAverage Duration

529 milesDistance

78kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions	Actions
Bus	Average PriceR 3 127 - R 3 632	Average Duration19h 15m	CO₂ emissions 21kg CO₂e
Train	Average PriceR 1 184 - R 7 736	Average Duration12h 1m	CO₂ emissions 78kg CO₂e

Train Companies

Amtrak

4.1/55,789 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.5

Wifi3.6

Based on 5789 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the wifi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at R 1 184

US train companies:Amtrak, Amtrak Acela, Brightline

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Chicago to Detroit Lakes 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 Chicago to Detroit Lakes?
The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Detroit Lakes start from R 1 184. The average price for this train route is around R 3 914. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the train journey from Chicago to Detroit Lakes?
The average train ride duration from Chicago to Detroit Lakes is 12h 1m, covering a distance of 529 miles (853 km). The quickest train can get you there in 12h 1m and is operated by Amtrak.
Which train operators service the Chicago to Detroit Lakes route?
Several major train operators operate on this route with 1 trains available per day.
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from Chicago to Detroit Lakes?
The earliest train departs from Chicago to Detroit Lakes at 11:10am. And the latest train departs at 3:05pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found

04/21

R 1 311

04/22

R 1 413

Today

R 1 362

04/24

No data

04/25

R 1 311

04/26

R 1 685

04/27

R 1 362

04/28

R 1 124

The cheapest trip from Chicago to Detroit Lakes was searched and found on Apr 28, 2026 with a price of R 1 124

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

You can expect to pay from R 1 124 to R 8 986 for a train ticket from Chicago to Detroit Lakes based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 1 124 which is on 2026-04-28.