The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$325
Average price
$340
Fastest journey
1 d 19 h 23 m
Average duration
1 d 23 h 32 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
2802 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $340 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $325.
Of the 3 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for Chicago, IL on Tue, Nov 25, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Nov 25 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 1 d 23 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 19 h 23 m .
On Tue, Nov 25 the slowest trains will take 2 d 2 h 32 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.
4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg
4 Southwest Chief
4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
4 Southwest Chief
4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl SandburgTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €188. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 51m. 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 €188, and a bus costs an average of €278.
Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€235 Average price | €188 Average price Cheapest | €278 Average price |
49h 33m Average total duration 49h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 49h 22m Average total duration 48h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.8kg CO2 emissions | 2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Monday, November 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder | 5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 76h54 | 10:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, November 25 | |||||
4 Southwest Chief | 1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 43h23 | 8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg | 1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 50h32 | 3:51 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 48h41 | 2:00 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL 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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Nov 30
Dec 01
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 49h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $289 (€235) but you can travel from only $231 (€188) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 1741 miles (2802 km) distance in 49h 16m.
Distance 1741 miles (2802 km) |
Average train duration 49h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $289 (€235) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 49h 16m |
First train 01:00 |
Last train 22:00 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL from $231 (€188). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Traveling between Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL offers a scenic journey across the United States with Amtrak as your primary train provider. The distance of approximately 2,000 miles can be covered in about 40 hours on the iconic Southwest Chief route. This long-distance trip allows you to experience diverse landscapes while enjoying comfortable amenities onboard. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this connection provides an unforgettable travel experience through some of America's most captivating regions.
Train Connection: Los Angeles to Chicago
Traveling from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL takes approximately 42 hours and 55 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day between these two cities. Passengers will depart from Union Station, CA and arrive at Union Station, IL.
Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
The first daily train journey departs from Los Angeles at 5:00 AM. This early start allows travelers to begin their adventure across the country promptly. The last departure time for this route is also at 5:00 AM, ensuring that passengers have a consistent schedule for planning their travels between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Los Angeles and Chicago is $140 (126€). The average ticket price tends to be around $241 (217.0€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.
Exploring Chicago's Iconic Attractions
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper not only symbolizes Chicago's architectural innovation but also offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass ledges that extend four feet outside of the building! As we explore this landmark, you'll discover how it has become a central part of Chicago’s skyline and an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience urban heights.
Next up is Millennium Park, inaugurated in 2004 as a vibrant public space designed to celebrate art and culture within our bustling city. The park features unique attractions like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate—affectionately known as "The Bean"—and Jay Pritzker Pavilion with its stunning outdoor concerts that draw crowds throughout summer months. Here at Millennium Park, you’ll find lush gardens interspersed with striking sculptures that invite both relaxation and inspiration amidst Chicago’s energetic atmosphere.
Finally, let me take you to Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination originally opened in 1916—and now one of Chicago's most visited attractions. Stretching over six hundred thousand square feet along Lake Michigan, it boasts thrilling rides like the Centennial Wheel alongside charming shops and diverse dining options perfect for families or couples alike. As we stroll down this lively pier filled with entertainment venues and seasonal events such as fireworks displays during summer nights, you'll see why it's cherished by locals and tourists who seek unforgettable experiences by water.
FAQs: Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Located near the main entrance
- Free
- The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink: Ventura County Line
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- $0.50
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- 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.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
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