- Must visit
Seattle Art Museum
Major downtown art museum with global collections, rotating exhibitions, and strong Native art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA
Showing times and prices for May 30
Cheapest price
$396
Average price
$533
Fastest journey
1 d 22 h 24 m
Average duration
2 d 7 h 6 m
Trains per day
6
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 $533 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $396.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Seattle, WA on Sat, May 30, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, May 30 the direct trains cover the 2789 km distance in an average of 2 d 7 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, May 30 the slowest trains will take 3 d 7 h 51 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.
27 Empire Builder · 518 Amtrak Cascades3:05 PM52h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:37 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$3961One-way1 transfer- 27 Empire Builder · 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4611One-way1 transfer
- 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4961One-way0 transfers
- 1333 Borealis · 7 Empire Builder11:10 AM50h19Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$5451One-way1 transfer
- 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight1:30 PM80h21Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$5991One-way1 transfer
- 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4961One-way0 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 7 Empire Builder3:05 PM46h24Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4611One-way1 transfer
- 1333 Borealis · 7 Empire Builder11:10 AM50h19Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$5451One-way1 transfer
- 27 Empire Builder · 518 Amtrak Cascades3:05 PM52h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:37 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$3961One-way1 transfer
- 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight2:00 PM79h51Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$7021One-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 flight with prices starting from $105. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 34m. 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 $105, and a train costs an average of $143.
Distance: 1733 miles (2789 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$531 Average price | $353 Average price Cheapest | $392 Average price | $417 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
50h 33m Average total duration 50h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 81h 54m Average total duration 81h 24m 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 |
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 flight with an average price of $353 (€285).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA:
A flight is $39 (€31) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA costing on average $392 (€316).
A flight is $179 (€144) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA costing on average $531 (€429).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 34m.
Other travel options to Seattle, WA take longer:
Train takes on average 50h 3m.
Bus takes on average 81h 24m.
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 $531 (€429) compared to roughly $417 (€336) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-114.54 (€-92.49). The journey takes 50h 3m 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, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1003 Southwest Chief · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 80h21 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 4 transfers | |
| 1003 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 80h21 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 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 · 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 · 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 · 7 Empire Builder | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 46h24 | 11:29 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, May 30 | |||||
| 1333 Borealis · 7 Empire Builder | 11:10 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 50h19 | 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
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 Seattle, WA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 50h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $143 (€115) but you can travel from only $105 (€84) 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 46h 24m.
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 $105 (€84)
Distance 1733 miles (2789 km) |
Average train duration 50h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $143 (€115) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 46h 24m |
First train 8:55 AM |
Last train 4:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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 $105 (€84)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA from $105 (€84). 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
46h 24m
Cheapest Price
$143 (€115)
Amtrak frequency
6 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
Things to do in Seattle
Discover the best of Seattle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Seattle trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Pop Culture
Bold contemporary museum focused on music, science fiction, gaming, and pop culture in an iconic building.
- Must visit
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Immersive glass art museum showcasing Dale Chihuly's large-scale installations, galleries, and outdoor garden works.
- Must visit
Seattle Waterfront
Reworked waterfront promenade with piers, Elliott Bay views, and easy access to major downtown attractions.
- Must visit
Kerry Park
Compact Queen Anne viewpoint famous for the classic skyline photo with the Space Needle and Mount Rainier.
- Must visit
Gas Works Park
Striking park built around preserved industrial structures, loved for skyline views and sunset photos.
- Gluten-free
Cedar-Plank Salmon
Pacific salmon roasted on a cedar plank, a regional Northwest preparation that adds smoky wood aroma and highlights local seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Geoduck
A prized giant Pacific Northwest clam, often served raw, sautéed, or in chowder; it is a distinctive Puget Sound seafood specialty.
Seattle-Style Hot Dog
A late-night local favorite topped with cream cheese and often grilled onions or jalapeños, strongly associated with Seattle street food culture.
Pike Place Chowder
Beloved casual spot near Pike Place Market, best known for rich chowders and other seafood soups in a lively market setting.
Canlis
Seattle fine-dining institution offering refined Pacific Northwest cuisine, polished service, and sweeping views over Lake Union.
Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar
Well-known oyster bar specializing in fresh local shellfish, raw bar plates, and a focused Pacific Northwest seafood experience.
United States Dollar
Seattle is expensive by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and coffee, though casual eats and transit can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bartenders: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Cafes: tip jar or round up.
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 $143 (€115), while the average price is around $531 (€429).
The train from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA takes 46h 24m and runs 6 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 flight, with a cost of around $105 (€84).
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 46h 24m 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
Chicago
Seattle
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 Seattle.
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 Seattle is King Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at King Street Station for your journey to Seattle from Chicago.
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with several parking lots and garages in the vicinity.
Dining
- The London Plane
- Salumi
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square
- The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak and Sounder trains
Public transit options for King Street Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Light Rail: Link Light Rail at International District/Chinatown Station
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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