- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of the premier railroad museums in North America, with restored locomotives, railcars, and exhibits on California and transcontinental rail history in Old Sacramento.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$423
Average price
$623
Fastest journey
2 d 3 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 7 h 29 m
Trains per day
22
Distance
2878 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around $623 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $423.
Fast trains
Of the 22 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Sacramento, CA on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 2878 km distance in an average of 2 d 7 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 3 h 5 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 2 d 9 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.
3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:40 PMSacramento, CA$4231One-way3 transfers- 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:55 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$4271One-way3 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:50 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$4271One-way3 transfers
- 421 Texas Eagle · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK2:10 PM79h30Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:40 PMSacramento, CA$4961One-way3 transfers
- 421 Texas Eagle · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK2:10 PM76h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:35 PMSacramento, CA$4961One-way3 transfers
- 5 California Zephyr2:00 PM51h05Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL3:05 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$18181One-way0 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:40 PMSacramento, CA$4231One-way3 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:50 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$4271One-way3 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK1:30 PM56h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:55 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$4271One-way3 transfers
- 381 Carl Sandburg · 5 California Zephyr7:40 AM57h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL3:05 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$18511One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $155. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $155, and a train costs an average of $116.
Distance: 1788 miles (2878 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$537 Average price | $362 Average price Cheapest | $447 Average price | $427 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
51h 58m Average total duration 51h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 59h 10m Average total duration 58h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 19m Average total duration Fastest 7h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 29h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is a bus with an average price of $362 (€293).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $86 (€69) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA costing on average $447 (€363).
A bus is $175 (€142) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA costing on average $537 (€436).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 19m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 51h 28m.
Bus takes on average 58h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, 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 $537 (€436) compared to roughly $427 (€347) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-109.45 (€-88.78). The journey takes 51h 28m versus 29h 51m 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 Sacramento, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 381 Carl Sandburg · 5 California Zephyr | 7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 57h25 | 3:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 60h19 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 56h20 | 7:50 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 56h25 | 7:55 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 3 Southwest Chief · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 56h10 | 7:40 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 5 California Zephyr | 2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 51h05 | 3:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 65h23 | 6:28 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Sacramento, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 51h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $116 (€94) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:26, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 1788 miles (2878 km) distance in 51h 5m.
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 1788 miles (2878 km) |
Average train duration 51h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $116 (€94) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 51h 5m |
First train 6:26 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 days |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Sacramento, CA from $116 (€94). 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
51h 5m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€94)
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
Complete guide to Sacramento
Things to do in Sacramento
Discover the best of Sacramento — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
The oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, known for California art, European paintings, ceramics, and a respected rotating exhibition program.
- Must visit
California State Capitol Museum
Museum rooms inside the historic state capitol interpret California political history, architecture, and restored government spaces.
- Must visit
Capitol Park
A central park surrounding the State Capitol with memorials, gardens, mature trees, and one of the best easy walks in downtown Sacramento.
- Must visit
Old Sacramento Waterfront
The city’s most famous walking area, blending boardwalk-style streets, river views, historic storefronts, and easy access to major attractions.
- Recommended
Midtown Sacramento
A lively central district known for murals, tree-lined streets, independent shops, nightlife, and a strong local creative atmosphere.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plate
A seasonal dish built around produce, cheese, and meats from the Sacramento Valley. It reflects Sacramento’s identity as California’s Farm-To-Fork Capital.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Sacramento Delta Asparagus
Tender asparagus grown in the nearby Delta, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is one of the region’s most iconic spring ingredients.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
California-style beef tri-tip, usually smoked or grilled and sliced. It is a popular regional barbecue dish often served with beans, salad, and bread.
Mulvaney's B&L
A respected Midtown restaurant celebrated for seasonal Farm-To-Fork cooking, local sourcing, and a warm but polished atmosphere.
The Firehouse Restaurant
A long-established fine dining restaurant in Old Sacramento known for elegant service, historic atmosphere, and an extensive wine program.
Tower Cafe
A well-known casual Sacramento favorite with eclectic global dishes, generous brunches, and a lively garden setting next to the Tower Theatre.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, while hotels can rise during events and peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants before tax; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 as appropriate.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $116 (€94), while the average price is around $537 (€436).
The train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA takes 51h 5m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA leaves at 6:26 AM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is 1788 miles (2878 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA leaves at 11:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Sacramento, CA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is by train, with a cost of around $116 (€94).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA, particularly on the California Zephyr route, is considered quite scenic. Passengers can enjoy views of the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and diverse landscapes that include plains and deserts.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 51h 5m and the distance covered is 1788 miles (2878 km). However, there are 11 trips per day available for trains.
To fully explore Sacramento's key attractions, including the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento Waterfront, and the Crocker Art Museum, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA include Oakland, CA, Richmond, CA, Berkeley, CA, Martinez, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Sacramento, CA
Chicago
Sacramento
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 Sacramento.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
24Wifi
- Free
Parking
- 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.
Dining
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
The major train station for arrivals in Sacramento is Sacramento Valley Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sacramento Valley Station for your journey to Sacramento from Chicago.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- The Firehouse Restaurant
- Ten22
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
- Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena
- Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 60 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms are accessible via a concourse.
Public transit options for Sacramento Valley Station
- Light Rail: Blue Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including local and regional buses
Sacramento, California State Capitol
information
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sacramento, CA and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Sacramento, CA
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