Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA train with Amtrak

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Cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 19

Cheapest

$243

Average

$345

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

08:25PM43h32

Chicago, IL

03:57PMLos Angeles, CA

$2431One-way

0 transfers

01:40PM50h17

Chicago, IL

03:57PMLos Angeles, CA

$3341One-way

0 transfers

09:05PM80h06

Chicago, IL

05:11AMLos Angeles, CA

$4581One-way

0 transfers

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA train times

Showing trains for today, Friday, April 18

Last updated at 5:18 PM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
21 Texas Eagle · 3021 AMTRAK · 421 Texas Eagle	6:52 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	65h43	12:35 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	2 transfers
5 California Zephyr · 718 San Joaquins · 5818 AMTRAK	7:00 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	62h15	9:15 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	2 transfers
3 Southwest Chief	7:25 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	44h17	3:42 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	0 transfersDirect
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 San Joaquins	8:05 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	75h30	11:35 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	4 transfers
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 San Joaquins	8:05 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	75h30	11:35 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	4 transfers
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight	8:05 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	80h06	4:11 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	1 transfer
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 San Joaquins	8:05 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL	75h30	11:35 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	4 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by train, bus, or flight

Sat
Apr 19

Sun
Apr 20

Mon
Apr 21

Tue
Apr 22

Wed
Apr 23

Thu
Apr 24

Fri
Apr 25

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA?

The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.

Trains

from $242

Buses

from $191

Flights

from $165

Fastest train times from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 19

Fastest Journey

1 d 19 h 32 m

Average

2 d 9 h 58 m

Trains per day

Distance

2802 km

Of the 3 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Los Angeles, CA every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Apr 19 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 2 d 9 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 19 h 32 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 d 8 h 6 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.

08:25PM43h32

Chicago, IL

03:57PMLos Angeles, CA

$2431One-way

0 transfers

01:40PM50h17

Chicago, IL

03:57PMLos Angeles, CA

$3341One-way

0 transfers

09:05PM80h06

Chicago, IL

05:11AMLos Angeles, CA

$4581One-way

0 transfers

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

USA

Trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2d 52h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $173 (€143) if you book in advance.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.

Price information

Distance

1740 miles (2801 km)

Average train duration

2d 52h 32m

Cheapest ticket price

$173 (€143)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Train providers

Fastest train

1d 43h 32m

First train

13:15

Last train

21:05

Price information

Train providers: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA trains

You can travel by train to Los Angeles, CA from Chicago, IL with Amtrak for as low as $186 (€154). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best route.

Amtrak is a passenger train service based in the United States. It operates more than 300 trains daily including trains to Los Angeles, CA from Chicago, IL, connecting more than 500 destinations in 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Amtrak offers a variety of train types, including the Acela Express, Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the Auto Train. The Acela Express is the fastest train, reaching speeds of up to 150 mph. The Northeast Regional is the most popular, offering frequent service between major cities in the Northeast. The Keystone Service is a regional service connecting Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Auto Train is a unique service that allows passengers to transport their cars along with them. Amtrak offers a variety of ticket types, including Saver, Value, Flexible, and Business Class. Saver tickets are the most affordable, while Business Class tickets offer the most amenities, such as complimentary meals and access to the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. Onboard facilities vary by train type, but all Amtrak trains offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. The most popular routes for Amtrak include the Northeast Corridor, which runs between Washington, D. C. And Boston, and the Pacific Surfliner, which runs between San Diego and San Luis Obispo, California. Other popular routes include the Capitol Corridor, which runs between San Jose and Sacramento, California, and the Empire Builder, which runs between Chicago and Seattle.

Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA train information:

Average Duration: 43 h 10 min
Cheapest Price: $186
Amtrak frequency: 1 a day

Traveling by train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Traveling between Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA is a scenic adventure made easy by Amtrak. This iconic train service offers comfortable rides across the vast landscapes of America, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. With multiple routes available, passengers can experience stunning views while connecting these two cities known for their unique cultures and attractions. Whether you're heading to explore Chicago's rich history or bask in the sunny allure of Los Angeles, Amtrak provides an efficient way to travel with convenience at your fingertips.

Train Connection: Chicago to Los Angeles

The train connection from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA takes approximately 43 hours and 10 minutes. There are 1 direct connection per day available for this route. Passengers will depart from Union Station, IL and arrive at Union Station, CA.

Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

The first daily train journey departs from Chicago at 7:00 PM and arrives in Los Angeles at 8:50 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for evening travel between these two cities.

Train Tickets Price for Chicago to Los Angeles

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Chicago and Los Angeles is $154 (139.6€). The average ticket price tends to be around $232 (208.8€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.

Exploring the Icons of Los Angeles

The Hollywood Sign, originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called "Hollywoodland," has since become an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and dreams of stardom. Its towering letters, standing at 45 feet tall and spanning 350 feet long, offer breathtaking views of Los Angeles while representing the allure and glamour that draws millions to this city each year. As we hike up to get a closer look, you'll feel the excitement that comes with being part of such a legendary landmark.

Griffith Observatory opened its doors in 1935 and quickly became one of Southern California's most beloved public spaces for both education and recreation. This stunning Art Deco structure not only offers spectacular panoramic views of downtown LA but also serves as a gateway to understanding our universe through its fascinating exhibits on astronomy. Be sure to check out the Zeiss refracting telescope; it’s your chance to gaze into space just like countless visitors have done before you!

The Getty Center is renowned not only for its impressive collection of European paintings but also for its striking architecture designed by Richard Meier set against beautifully landscaped gardens. Opened in 1997, this cultural haven attracts art lovers from around the globe who come here not just for world-class art but also to enjoy serene vistas overlooking Los Angeles' sprawling landscape. Don’t miss exploring how modern design harmonizes with nature—it's truly an experience unlike any other!

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

FAQs: Travel by train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.

Cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $190 (€157) when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is $224 (€185); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

The average journey time by train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is 43 h 10 min to travel the 1737 mile (2801 km) long route, with around there are 6 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.

The first train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 1: 00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 10: 00 PM.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA without having to change trains with Amtrak. There is 1 direct train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.

When taking a train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on Amtrak for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible train providers who offer a service from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 10: 00 PM.

The cheapest month for a train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is August.

You have options as you can travel between Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA 3 different ways: bus, train or flight.

Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Chicago

Los Angeles

The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Union Station Wifi