Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA train

Wed, Aug 05
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$538

Average price

$538

Fastest journey

3 d 5 h 55 m

Average duration

3 d 5 h 55 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

2789 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, 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 Pasadena, CA will cost around $538 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $538.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Pasadena, CA on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 2789 km distance in an average of 3 d 5 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 d 5 h 55 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 d 5 h 55 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.

  • Amtrak
    8:05 PM77h55
    Chicago, IL
    2:00 AMPasadena, CA
    $5381One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $262. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $262, and a train costs an average of $538.

Distance: 1733 miles (2789 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$1679

Average price

$283

Average price

$281

Average price

Cheapest

$407

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

78h 25m

Average total duration

77h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

46h 10m

Average total duration

45h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 27m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

28h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA is a flight with an average price of $281.

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

A flight is $2 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA costing on average $283.

A flight is $1398 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA costing on average $1679.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 27m.

Other travel options to Pasadena, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 45h 40m.

Train takes on average 77h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Pasadena, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $1679 compared to roughly $407 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-1272.19. The journey takes 77h 55m versus 28h 58m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak8:05 PM Chicago, IL
77h55
2:00 AM Pasadena, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare bus, train, 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
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Aug 07
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Aug 09
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Aug 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA

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Trains from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 77h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $538 but you can travel from only $253 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 12:45, the last at 12:45. The fastest train covers the 1733 miles (2789 km) distance in 77h 55m.

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
Bus from $253
Distance
1733 miles (2789 km)
Average train duration
77h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
$538
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
77h 55m
First train
12:45 PM
Last train
12:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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
Bus from $253

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $538, while the average price is around $1679.
The train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA takes 77h 55m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA leaves at 12:45 PM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA is 1733 miles (2789 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA leaves at 12:45 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $253.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA offers scenic views, especially as it traverses the vast landscapes of the Midwest and the dramatic terrains of the Southwest, including deserts, mountains, and canyons, providing travelers with a picturesque experience.
In Pasadena, CA, you can explore the Eaton Canyon Natural Area for hiking and wildlife observation, or visit the Gamble House for a guided tour of American Arts and Crafts architecture. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits at Kidspace Children's Museum, while the Pasadena Ice Skating Center offers fun skating opportunities. Arlington Garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll. For culture and art, visit The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, or the Norton Simon Museum. Old Pasadena provides shopping and dining experiences, and the Rose Bowl Stadium hosts major events and a flea market. Catch a performance at the historic Pasadena Playhouse.
For a fulfilling experience in Pasadena, CA, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This timeframe allows you to explore key attractions like the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, the Norton Simon Museum, and Old Pasadena, while also enjoying local dining and shopping.
No, you cannot take the train from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Pasadena, 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 Pasadena, CA include Oceanside, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, 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 Pasadena, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas like Old Town Pasadena and public transit stops. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying alert in busy places and using official transportation services helps ensure a safer visit.
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 Pasadena, CA

Most Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA trains use the Union Station to Pasadena, S Los Robles Ave (Hilton Hotel) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Pasadena, 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 Pasadena

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

Trains from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, 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+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Pasadena, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Pasadena, CA

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