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Major art museum with global collections, strong Native and modern holdings, and rotating blockbuster exhibitions downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
CHF336
Average ticket price on Aug 29
CHF715
Fastest journey on Aug 29
1 d 22 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
2 d 13 h 6 m
Trains on Aug 29
5
Distance
2789 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA will cost around CHF715 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF336.
Fast trains
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 5 trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 2789 km distance in an average of 2 d 13 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 22 h 24 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 3 d 8 h 21 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.
7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF3361One-way0 transfers- 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight2:00 PM79h51Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF4581One-way1 transfer
- 27 Empire Builder · 518 Amtrak Cascades3:05 PM52h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:37 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF5821One-way1 transfer
- 27 Empire Builder · 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF5901One-way1 transfer
- 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight1:30 PM80h21Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF16111One-way1 transfer
- 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF3361One-way0 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF5901One-way1 transfer
- 27 Empire Builder · 518 Amtrak Cascades3:05 PM52h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:37 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF5821One-way1 transfer
- 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight2:00 PM79h51Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF4581One-way1 transfer
- 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight1:30 PM80h21Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WACHF16111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF239 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.8 - 2.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF239, while a train costs an average of CHF537.
Distance: 1733 miles (2789 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF537 Average price | CHF461 Average price | CHF239 Average price Cheapest | CHF341 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
52h 9m Average total duration 51h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 14m Average total duration Fastest 7h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 60h 24m Average total duration 59h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.7kg 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 Seattle, WA is a bus with an average price of CHF239.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA:
A bus is CHF222 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA costing on average CHF461.
A bus is CHF298 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA costing on average CHF537.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 14m.
Other travel options to Seattle, WA take longer:
Train takes on average 51h 39m.
Bus takes on average 59h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 CHF537 compared to roughly CHF341 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF-196.41. The journey takes 51h 39m versus 30h 2m 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 Seattle, WA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 80h21 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight | 2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 79h51 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 421 Texas Eagle · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 14 Coast Starlight | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 103h41 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 3 transfers | |
| 421 Texas Eagle · 14 Coast Starlight | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 103h41 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 421 Texas Eagle · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 14 Coast Starlight | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 103h41 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 3 transfers | |
| 7 Empire Builder | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 46h24 | 11:29 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 518 Amtrak Cascades | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 52h32 | 5:37 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 7 Empire Builder | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 46h24 | 11:29 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 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 Seattle, WA by train, bus, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 51h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF116 but you can travel from only CHF75 by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:55, the last at 16:55. The fastest train covers the 1733 miles (2789 km) distance in 45h 40m.
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 CHF75
Distance 1733 miles (2789 km) |
Average train duration 51h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF116 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 45h 40m |
First train 8:55 AM |
Last train 4:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from CHF75
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA from CHF96. 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
45h 40m
Cheapest Price
CHF116
Amtrak frequency
5 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 Seattle, WA
Things to do in Seattle, WA
Discover the best of Seattle, WA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Seattle, WA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Pop Culture
Immersive pop-culture museum with music, science fiction, gaming, and film exhibits in a Frank Gehry building.
- Must visit
The Museum of Flight
Leading aviation museum featuring historic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on exhibits near Boeing Field.
- Must visit
Discovery Park
Vast urban park with forests, beaches, bluffs, and trails, plus some of Seattle’s finest Puget Sound views.
- Must visit
Seattle Waterfront
Lively waterfront district with ferries, the Great Wheel, promenades, and classic Elliott Bay scenery.
- Must visit
Kerry Park
Beloved hilltop park offering postcard views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier, especially at sunset.
- Gluten-free
Cedar Plank Salmon
Cedar plank salmon is Pacific Northwest salmon roasted on cedar, adding smoky wood aroma. It reflects Seattle's strong salmon culture and regional cooking style.
Seattle-Style Teriyaki
Seattle-style teriyaki is grilled meat with sweet-savory sauce, usually over rice and salad. It became a defining everyday local meal across the city.
- Gluten-free
Geoduck
Geoduck is a large Pacific Northwest clam, often served raw or lightly cooked. It is prized locally for its sweet taste and connection to regional seafood.
Pike Place Chowder
Historic Pike Place Market spot famed for clam chowder, seafood sandwiches, and casual counter service with a lively market atmosphere.
Matt's in the Market
Long-running market restaurant known for Dungeness crab cakes, seafood entrées, and views over Pike Place with a classic local feel.
The Pink Door
Acclaimed fine dining destination focused on seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients, refined tasting menus, and elegant service near Pike Place.
US dollar ($)
Seattle is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel, dining, and parking costs. Transit is reasonable, but central stays and waterfront meals raise typical visitor budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screens; small tips are appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF116, while the average price is around CHF537.
The train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA takes 45h 40m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is 1733 miles (2789 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA leaves at 8:55 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA leaves at 4:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Seattle, WA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to King Street Station, Seattle, WA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is by bus, with a cost of around CHF96.
Yes, the train journey from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is considered scenic. It traverses through diverse landscapes including the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Cascade Range, offering passengers views of rivers, forests, and mountain ranges.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is not feasible. The journey takes 45h 40m and covers a distance of 1733 miles (2789 km). There are 5 trips per day by train.
In Seattle, WA, you can take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for stunning views and a charming small-town experience, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail. For cultural experiences, see a live performance at the historic Paramount Theatre. Must-see sights include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum.
For a comprehensive experience in Seattle, WA, 3 to 4 days are typically sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture, while also allowing time for side trips to nearby destinations like Mount Rainier or Bainbridge Island.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA include Olympia, WA, Tacoma, WA, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA, Mount Vernon, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Pike Place Market. Scams involving fake charity collectors and street performers asking for money are common. It's advisable to stay alert in public transit and avoid unlicensed taxis. Travelers should also be aware of occasional aggressive panhandling in certain 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 Seattle, WA
Most Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA trains use the Union Station to King Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Seattle, WA leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA 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
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 · CHF3 · 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.
Which Seattle, WA station do trains from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA most often arrive at King Street Station. Some services arrive at Tukwila Amtrak, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Seattle, WA arrival station.
King Street Station303 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104, USA+1 206-553-3000
City-centre transport
Getting to King Street Station from Seattle city centre
BusDungeness Line · 4m · CHF18
1, 101, 13, 14, 150, 177, 2, 3, 36, 4, 7, 70, 49, 102, 162 · 5m · CHF3 · every ~52 min
Tram1 Line, 2 Line · 3m · CHF3 · every ~28 min
King Street Station train station facilities and services
King Street Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The London Plane, Salumi
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at King Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at King Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at King Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at King Street Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at King Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square, The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Seattle, WA and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Seattle, WA
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