The cheapest and fastest trains from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$186
Average price
$265
Fastest journey
1 d 4 h 20 m
Average duration
1 d 7 h 2 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
1573 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL will cost around $265 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $186.
Of the 8 trains that leave Austin, TX for Chicago, IL on Fri, Nov 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 1573 km distance in an average of 1 d 7 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 4 h 20 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 1 d 10 h 36 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
22 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service
22 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
422 Texas Eagle
422 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service
422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
422 Texas Eagle
22 Texas Eagle
22 Texas Eagle · 822 Heartland Flyer · 8904 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief
22 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River RunnerTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €72, and a train costs an average of €121.
Distance: 977 miles (1573 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€187 Average price | €160 Average price | €131 Average price Cheapest |
28h 20m Average total duration 27h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration Fastest 3h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 3m Average total duration 23h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.7 - 9.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Austin, TX to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Austin, TX to Chicago, IL trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 2:24 PM Austin, TX | 34h36 | 1:00 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Austin, TX to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
Distance 977 miles (1573 km) |
Average train duration 27h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $149 (€121) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 28h 20m |
First train 07:15 |
Last train 13:52 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL start from as low as $149 (€121) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $229 (€187) depending on the train type and class.
Train companies: Amtrak from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Austin, TX and Chicago, IL from $86 (€71). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Austin, TX and Chicago, IL is made convenient with Amtrak providing a comfortable train connection. The journey offers scenic views as you traverse through diverse landscapes, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers. With multiple departures throughout the week, passengers can easily plan their trip to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities.
Train Connection: Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
The train connection from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL takes approximately 28 hours and 11 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day. Passengers will depart from Austin Station, TX and arrive at Union Station, IL.
Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Austin at 14:24 and arrives in Chicago at 15:31. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the vibrant culture of both cities.
Train Tickets Price for Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Austin to Chicago is $123 (111.7€).
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Landmarks
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper not only symbolizes Chicago's architectural innovation but also offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass ledges that extend four feet outside of the building! As we explore this landmark, you'll discover how it has become a vital part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience urban heights.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant public space designed to celebrate art and culture while enhancing community engagement. The park features unique attractions like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—which reflects both visitors and stunning cityscapes alike. With its lush gardens, interactive fountains like Crown Fountain, and open-air concerts at Pritzker Pavilion throughout summer months, Millennium Park serves as a dynamic hub that brings together locals and tourists under one sky.
Finally, let’s stroll over to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination opened in 1916 originally intended for shipping purposes—and now transformed into an entertainment paradise with something for everyone! Spanning over six city blocks along Lake Michigan's shoreline, Navy Pier boasts thrilling rides such as The Centennial Wheel alongside charming shops and diverse dining options offering local flavors. Whether you're here for family fun or romantic sunset views by Lake Michigan; this lively pier captures Chicago’s spirit perfectly while providing unforgettable experiences year-round!
FAQs: Trains from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Free for passengers
- The Driskill
- Hotel Ella
- Hyatt House Austin/Downtown
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station is a single-level facility with an enclosed waiting area.
- Bus: Capital Metro routes available
- Train: Served by Amtrak's Texas Eagle
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Austin, TX
More options for your journey from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL
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