Chicago, IL, USA to Boston, MA, USA from $40: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On your train trip from Chicago to Boston, consider Amtrak as the primary operator for this route. Amtrak offers a variety of onboard services including a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Additionally, if you are in the Business Class or First Class, you may receive complimentary meals and drinks served at your seat.

• The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train operates between Chicago and Boston, providing several seating options. In Economy class, you can choose from standard coach seating, which is comfortable yet basic. If you’re looking for more comfort, consider upgrading to Business class, which offers wider seats and more legroom. First Class is typically not available on this route, but in Business class, expect additional amenities like priority boarding and access to the lounge in some stations.

• Upon arriving at Boston's South Station, you can easily access local transportation options. The station provides luggage storage services for a fee, so you don't have to carry your bags around if you plan to explore the city right after your arrival. Showers are not available at the station, but restrooms are easily accessible. For the fastest way to get to the city center, take the MBTA’s Red Line from South Station. It’s just a few steps from the train platforms and will get you to Park Street station in about 5 minutes, where you can transfer to other lines if needed.

• Be prepared for potential weather changes; Boston’s unpredictable climate can result in delays during fall and winter, so consider booking a later flight to avoid being affected by these conditions.

• Upon arrival at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), take advantage of the airport's free Silver Line bus service, which provides direct transport to South Station and the city center; this can save you significant taxi fare.

• Expect taxi fares from Boston Logan to downtown to range from $25 to $35; also, consider apps like Uber or Lyft to compare prices and avoid the frustration of parking if you're renting a car.

• Consider downloading the FlixBus and Greyhound apps for up-to-date schedules, boarding information, and mobile ticketing before your trip, as you'll be using their services on this route: flixbus.com and greyhound.com

• While transferring in New York City, take advantage of the 45-minute break to grab a quick meal or coffee; check out nearby options like Xi'an Famous Foods for delicious hand-pulled noodles, located at 67 Bayard St, just a 10-minute walk from the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

• Upon arrival at Boston's South Station, use the interactive maps available at the station to locate nearby subway connections for easy access to the rest of the city, including the Red Line to Cambridge or the Silver Line for the airport: mbta.com