City to city
Chicago to Baltimore by train
Passengers can travel directly from Chicago to Baltimore on the Amtrak Cardinal, an overnight journey taking about 20 to 25 hours to cross the eastern states.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardinal | about 20 to 25 hours | Three times a week in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Taking the train from the Midwest to Maryland offers a comfortable alternative to flying or driving. The route connects two major cities while passing through river valleys and mountain ranges. You will travel on the Cardinal, which provides a direct link without the need to change trains. This service is a classic long distance rail experience, giving passengers a chance to relax and watch the changing landscapes. Whether you are traveling for business or planning a holiday on the East Coast, the rail journey provides a practical and scenic option.
Your train options
The only direct train on this route is the Cardinal. As of 2026, it runs three times a week in each direction. The trip takes about 20 to 25 hours and involves an overnight stay on board.
Passengers can choose between standard Coach seats and private sleeping accommodations. Coach is the most affordable option, and you can read our guide on sleeping in coach overnight for advice on getting comfortable. For more privacy and a flat bed, you can book a Viewliner Roomette, a Viewliner Bedroom, or an Accessible Bedroom. You can learn more about these choices in our guide to Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms.
Sleeping car passengers receive complimentary meals, with café and dining service available during the trip. Coach passengers can purchase snacks and light meals from the café. Since the train only operates three days a week, you will need to plan your departure dates carefully when booking your tickets.
The journey
The route passes through several distinct landscapes between Illinois and Maryland. After leaving Chicago, the train makes stops in Indiana towns like Lafayette and Indianapolis before reaching Cincinnati. From Huntington to Cincinnati, the tracks follow the southern bank of the Ohio River in Kentucky for many miles.
Further east, the scenery becomes more rugged. Between Charleston and Clifton Forge, the train travels through the New River Gorge. This section features deep forested canyon walls, with stops at Prince and Hinton near the national park. Depending on the time of year and the schedule, you might see this terrain during daylight hours.
Continuing from Clifton Forge to Charlottesville, the tracks cross the mountains near Staunton, offering views of the Blue Ridge and the Shenandoah Valley area. The train then calls at Alexandria and Washington, DC, before completing the final stretch into Baltimore.
The stations
Your trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just west of the Chicago River. It is a short walk or bus ride from the Loop and connects with Metra commuter trains and the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop. The station features a classic Beaux Arts waiting room called the Great Hall, opened in 1925. Sleeping car passengers can use the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge here.
You will arrive at Baltimore Penn Station, a 1911 Beaux Arts building situated north of downtown. This station connects with light rail and MARC commuter trains, and is also served by Acela, Northeast Regional and several long distance trains.
Tips
- Check the timetable carefully because the train only runs three days a week.
- Read our Amtrak booking tips to secure the best fares for sleeping accommodations.
- Bring a blanket or warm clothing if you plan on sleeping in coach overnight.
- Review our guide for your first time on Amtrak to understand how boarding works at major stations.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Chicago and Baltimore?
No, you do not need to change trains. The Amtrak Cardinal provides a direct service between the two cities. The entire journey takes about 20 to 25 hours, so you can stay on the same train for the whole trip.
Are meals included on the train?
Meals are included if you book a Viewliner Roomette or Bedroom. The train provides café and dining service for sleeping car passengers. If you travel in Coach, meals are not included, but you can buy food and drinks from the café.