- Must visit
The Dalí Museum
Major museum devoted to Salvador Dalí, known for its landmark architecture and strong collection of paintings, drawings, and surrealist works.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $54, and a train costs an average of $308.
Distance: 1012 miles (1629 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$389 Average price | $168 Average price Cheapest | $257 Average price | $232 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
43h 21m Average total duration 42h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 28h 10m Average total duration 27h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL is a flight with an average price of $168 (€137).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL:
A flight is $90 (€73) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL costing on average $257 (€211).
A flight is $221 (€181) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL costing on average $389 (€318).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 48m.
Other travel options to St. Petersburg, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 27h 40m.
Train takes on average 42h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL 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 $389 (€318) compared to roughly $232 (€190) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-156.74 (€-128.28). The journey takes 42h 51m versus 17h 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 St. Petersburg, FL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:40 PM Chicago, IL | 44h30 | 8:10 PM St. Petersburg, FL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:55 PM Chicago, IL | 45h15 | 9:10 PM St. Petersburg, FL | 0 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 St. Petersburg, FL 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 42h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $308 (€252) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 08:45, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 1012 miles (1629 km) distance in 42h 20m.
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 $54 (€44)
Distance 1012 miles (1629 km) |
Average train duration 42h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $308 (€252) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 42h 20m |
First train 8:45 AM |
Last train 6:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $54 (€44)
Complete guide to Saint Petersburg
Things to do in Saint Petersburg
Discover the best of Saint Petersburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saint Petersburg trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg
Large encyclopedic art museum with European, American, Asian, and contemporary collections in a waterfront setting downtown.
- Recommended
Imagine Museum
Contemporary glass art museum featuring international studio glass, immersive displays, and rotating exhibitions near the warehouse arts district.
- Must visit
St. Pete Pier
Reimagined waterfront public space with walking paths, views over Tampa Bay, public art, and strong sunset popularity among visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Central Avenue
Main urban corridor lined with murals, indie shops, bars, and galleries, especially popular for strolling through the arts districts.
- Recommended
Vinoy Park
Large bayfront park with skyline views, breezy lawns, and event space; a classic place for walks and photos.
Grouper Sandwich
A Gulf Coast staple of grilled, blackened, or fried local grouper on a bun. It is especially popular around St. Petersburg for its fresh regional seafood.
Smoked Fish Spread
A classic Florida snack made from smoked local fish blended into a creamy dip, often served with crackers. It reflects the area’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Stone Crab Claws
Seasonal Florida stone crab claws are served chilled with mustard sauce. They are one of the state’s most iconic seafood specialties.
Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish
Long-running local institution celebrated for smoked mullet, fish spread, and old-Florida atmosphere. A top choice for traditional regional seafood.
Columbia Restaurant Sand Key
Historic Florida Spanish-Cuban restaurant known for Cuban sandwiches, seafood, and sangria in a classic, elegant setting near the beaches.
The Mill Restaurant
Popular downtown St. Petersburg restaurant serving refined Southern-inspired dishes and creative cocktails in a stylish but approachable space.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate for U.S. beach cities. Hotels rise in peak season, while casual dining and coffee stay fairly reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual or fast food.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants if service is not included. 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 St. Petersburg, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL 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 St. Petersburg, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $308 (€252), while the average price is around $389 (€318).
The train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL takes 42h 20m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL leaves at 8:45 AM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL is 1012 miles (1629 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL leaves at 6:40 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL is by flight, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
Yes, the train journey from Chicago, IL to Saint Petersburg, FL is considered scenic, offering views of diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque waterways as it travels through the southeastern United States.
A visit to Saint Petersburg, FL typically takes about 2 to 3 days to explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and popular attractions like the Salvador Dalí Museum and the Sunken Gardens.
No, you cannot take the train from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor St. Petersburg, FL 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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL 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 Saint Petersburg, FL, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi or rideshare drivers and fake ticket sales for local attractions. It's advisable to avoid isolated areas at night and keep valuables secure to minimize risk.
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 St. Petersburg, FL
Most Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL trains use the Union Station to St. Petersburg, 77th Avenue North (Gateway Mall - Shelter) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL 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 St. Petersburg
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to St. Petersburg, FL leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL 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 · $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.
St. Petersburg, 77th Avenue North (Gateway Mall - Shelter)
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from St. Petersburg, FL and Chicago, IL
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