Is there a direct train from St Joseph to Chicago?

No, you must travel to St. Cloud or Minneapolis to board the Amtrak.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 10 hours depending on traffic.

What is the best airport?

O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is the primary hub for Chicago.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, expect tolls when entering Illinois via I-90.

Is it safe to drive in winter?

Winter driving requires caution due to heavy snow and ice on I-94.

St Joseph

Chicago

Train Driving

St Joseph to Chicago

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from St Joseph to Chicago spans approximately 700 kilometers across the Midwest. You can drive via I-94 East, which takes you through Wisconsin and into Illinois. Alternatively, Amtrak offers service from nearby St. Cloud or Minneapolis. The route is characterized by rolling plains and the transition into the dense urban landscape of the Great Lakes region. Expect a travel time of roughly 10 hours by car or 8 hours by train including transfers.

Total Distance: 700 km driving distance; 620 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to O'Hare (ORD) takes 1.5 hours flight time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly $100 in fuel.

Compare St Joseph to Chicago Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	12 hours	10 hours
Avg Price	$110-$250	$80-$120 in fuel
Operator	Amtrak Empire Builder	Personal Vehicle
Route	St. Cloud to Union Station Chicago.	I-94 East through Madison and Milwaukee.
Tip	Book your ticket at least three weeks in advance for lower fares.	Avoid rush hour traffic in Milwaukee and Chicago to save two hours.

Travel Tips

Traffic Timing
Avoid entering Chicago via I-90/I-94 between 7 AM and 9 AM.
Parking
Use apps like SpotHero to find discounted parking garages in downtown Chicago.
Public Transit
Purchase a Ventra card for seamless access to the CTA 'L' trains and buses.
Weather
Pack layers as the wind off Lake Michigan can drop temperatures significantly.
Amtrak Booking
Always check the Amtrak website for 'Value' fares to save money.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Security
Never leave valuables in your car when parked in public lots.
Public Transit Safety
Stay in well-lit areas when waiting for trains at night.
Navigation
Use GPS apps to avoid high-crime neighborhoods when driving through urban areas.
Emergency
Keep a roadside emergency kit in your trunk for winter driving conditions.