CHICAGO to LOS ANGELES train from $106 (€85) with Amtrak

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 25

Cheapest price

$227

Average price

$502

Fastest journey

1 d 20 h 42 m

Average duration

2 d 9 h 42 m

Trains per day

Distance

2802 km

Cheap tickets

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.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $502 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $227.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Los Angeles, CA on Tue, Aug 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Aug 25 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 2 d 9 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 20 h 42 m .

On Tue, Aug 25 the slowest trains will take 2 d 17 h 25 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.

381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief
7:40 AM50h32
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
8:12 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$2271One-way
1 transfer
3 Southwest Chief
1:30 PM44h42
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
8:12 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$3031One-way
0 transfers
421 Texas Eagle
2:10 PM65h25
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5:35 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$3611One-way
0 transfers
301 Lincoln Service · 421 Texas Eagle
7:15 AM72h20
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5:35 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$3781One-way
1 transfer
319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle
9:50 AM69h45
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5:35 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$3871One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $106. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 13h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $106, and a train costs an average of $167.

Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Flight	Bus	Driving
$310 Average price	$245 Average price Cheapest	$250 Average price	$432 Average price (fuel + tolls)
26h 33m Average total duration 26h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	16h 5m Average total duration Fastest 13h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	47h 23m Average total duration 46h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	29h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest	8.4 - 16.8kg CO2 emissions	2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular airline	Most popular bus company	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is a flight with an average price of $245 (€197).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA:

A flight is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $250 (€201).

A flight is $66 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $310 (€250).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 13h 5m.

Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 26h 3m.

Bus takes on average 46h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 3h 6m faster (26h 3m by train vs 29h 9m by car) and roughly $121 (€98) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($310 (€250) vs $432 (€347)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Amtrak.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief	7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	50h32	8:12 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	1 transfer
3 Southwest Chief	1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	44h42	8:12 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	0 transfersDirect
5 California Zephyr · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK	2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	62h25	2:25 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	2 transfers
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight	3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	80h06	9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	1 transfer
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner	3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	76h10	5:15 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	4 transfers
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner	3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	76h10	5:15 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA	4 transfers
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner	3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL	76h10	5:15 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

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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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 $248

Buses

from $197

Flights

from $169

Journey information

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

USA

Trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 26h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $167 (€134) but you can travel from only $106 (€85) by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 1741 miles (2802 km) distance in 43h 32m.

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

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Flight from $106 (€85)

Distance

1741 miles (2802 km)

Average train duration

26h 3m

Cheapest ticket price

$167 (€134)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

43h 32m

First train

12:20 AM

Last train

10:00 PM

Cheapest Month

Feb

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Jan - Mar

Low Season

Jul - Sep

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Flight from $106 (€85)

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA from $106 (€85). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About

Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

43h 32m

Cheapest Price

$167 (€134)

Amtrak frequency

10 a day

Luggage included

2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing

Refund

Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars

Seat reservation

Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations

Pets

Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free

Quiet zone

Learn more about Amtrak

Complete guide to Los Angeles, CA

Things to do in Los Angeles, CA

Discover the best of Los Angeles, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles, CA trip today.

Must visit

The Getty Center

Hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and striking architecture plus sweeping city views.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

The Broad

Major contemporary art museum in Downtown LA, known for broad collections, special shows, and bold architecture.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

World-class encyclopedic museum on Wilshire Boulevard, famous for diverse collections and the Urban Light installation.

View on map Visit website

United States dollar ($)

Los Angeles is pricier than many U.S. cities for hotels, dining, parking, and rides. Budget options exist, but tourist areas and transport costs raise daily spend.

Average meal costs

Budget: $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range: $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee: $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or coffee.

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

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $167 (€134), while the average price is around $310 (€250).

The train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA takes 43h 32m and runs 10 per day.

The first train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:20 AM.

The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is 1741 miles (2802 km).

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

There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.

Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.

The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Los Angeles, CA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.

The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $106 (€85).

The train journey from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, particularly on the Southwest Chief route, offers scenic views including the Mississippi River, the plains of Iowa and Missouri, the high desert landscapes of New Mexico, and the rugged mountains and canyons of Arizona.

A day trip from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 43h 32m and the distance is 1741 miles (2802 km). The frequency of trains for this route is 8 per day.

In Los Angeles, CA, you can explore Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Best sights include the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center for art and gardens, the historic Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) with its diverse collections.

To fully experience Los Angeles, CA, it's ideal to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to visit popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Getty Center, while also exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.

Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.

Since neither Chicago, IL nor Los Angeles, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.

Popular day trips by train from Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Fullerton, CA.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.

Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.

The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.

In Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.

Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

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

Most Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA trains use the Union Station to Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Glendale Station. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chicago

Arrival train stations in Los Angeles

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Los Angeles, CA leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.

Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre

Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min

Union Station train station facilities and services

Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.

More about Union Station

Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains from Chicago, IL arrive at?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Glendale Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Los Angeles, CA arrival station.

Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre

TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · $1047

Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · $1120

BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · $565

Union Station train station facilities and services

Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.