- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$368
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$501
Fastest journey on Aug 29
2 d 3 h
Average journey duration on Aug 29
2 d 12 h 51 m
Trains on Aug 29
5
Distance
2805 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $501 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $368.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.
702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:29 AM55h31Fresno station, Fresno, CA8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$3681One-way3 transfers- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:29 AM58h14Fresno station, Fresno, CA10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$3811One-way4 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief10:29 AM51h00Fresno station, Fresno, CA3:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$4111One-way2 transfers
- 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder6:00 PM68h45Fresno station, Fresno, CA4:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$6681One-way3 transfers
- 717 Gold Runner · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder4:00 PM70h45Fresno station, Fresno, CA4:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$6781One-way2 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief10:29 AM51h00Fresno station, Fresno, CA3:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$4111One-way2 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:29 AM55h31Fresno station, Fresno, CA8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$3681One-way3 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:29 AM58h14Fresno station, Fresno, CA10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$3811One-way4 transfers
- 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder6:00 PM68h45Fresno station, Fresno, CA4:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$6681One-way3 transfers
- 717 Gold Runner · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder4:00 PM70h45Fresno station, Fresno, CA4:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$6781One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $469 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $469, while a train costs an average of $1229.
Distance: 1742 miles (2805 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$1229 Average price | $716 Average price | $469 Average price Cheapest | $435 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
67h 4m Average total duration 66h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 11m Average total duration Fastest 6h 11m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 53h 10m Average total duration 52h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $469.
This is compared to other travel options from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $247 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $716.
A bus is $760 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $1229.
The fastest way to travel from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 11m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 52h 40m.
Train takes on average 66h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Fresno, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL 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 $1229 compared to roughly $435 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-793.98. The journey takes 66h 34m versus 30h 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
Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 10:29 AM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 55h31 | 8:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 3 transfers | |
| 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 10:29 AM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 58h14 | 10:43 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
| 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief | 10:29 AM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 51h00 | 3:29 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 422 Texas Eagle | 2:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 69h20 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| 717 Gold Runner · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder | 4:00 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 70h45 | 4:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder | 6:00 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 68h45 | 4:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 66h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $534 but you can travel from only $191 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 09:49, the last at 18:16. The fastest train covers the 1742 miles (2805 km) distance in 66h 27m.
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 $191
Distance 1742 miles (2805 km) |
Average train duration 66h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $534 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 66h 27m |
First train 9:49 AM |
Last train 6:16 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $191
Train companies: Amtrak from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Fresno, CA and Chicago, IL from $191. 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 Amtrak Duration
66h 27m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$534
Amtrak frequency
1 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 $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $534, while the average price is around $1229.
The train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL runs once a day and takes approximately 66h 27m.
The distance by train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is 1742 miles (2805 km).
The first train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:49 AM.
The last train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:16 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Fresno, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Fresno station, Fresno, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $191.
The train journey from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL offers diverse scenic views, including the agricultural landscapes of California's Central Valley, the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and the vast plains of the Midwest, providing a varied and picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 66h 27m and covers a distance of 1742 miles (2805 km). The frequency is 4 per day for trains.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Fresno, CA nor Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
Most Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL trains use the Fresno Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Fresno, CA and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Fresno
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Fresno, CA station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL leave from Fresno Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Fresno, CA city centre at 2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA.
Fresno Station2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Fresno Station from Fresno city centre
Fresno Station is 1 km from Fresno city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22 · 3m · every ~3 min
Fresno Station train station facilities and services
Fresno Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Shepherd's Inn, Joe's Steakhouse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fresno Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Fresno Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fresno Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fresno Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fresno Station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center, Radisson Hotel Fresno Conference Center, La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Fresno, CA arrive at?
Trains from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Fresno, CA
More options for your journey from Fresno, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Fresno, CA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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