Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu, Jul 10
+ Add return
Amtrak
Comboios De Portugal
Eurostar
AVE
TGV INOUI
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jul 10

Cheapest price

$197

Average price

$287

Fastest journey

1 d 19 h 23 m

Average duration

2 d 4 h 1 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

2802 km

Cheap tickets

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 $287 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $197.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for Chicago, IL on Thu, Jul 10, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 2 d 4 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 19 h 23 m .

On Thu, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 2 d 17 h 26 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.

Amtrak4 Southwest Chief
05:19PM43h23
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
02:42PMUnion Station, Chicago, IL
$1971One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg
05:19PM50h32
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
09:51PMUnion Station, Chicago, IL
$2211One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
05:19PM48h41
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
08:00PMUnion Station, Chicago, IL
$3161One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr
07:13PM65h26
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
02:39PMUnion Station, Chicago, IL
$4141One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train 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 train with prices starting from €427. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 48h 52m. 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 train costs an average of €427, and a bus costs an average of €681.

Distance: 1740 miles (2801 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€427

Average price

Cheapest

€681

Average price

49h 42m

Average total duration

49h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

49h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

48h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.8 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.8 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

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

Showing trains for today, Wednesday, July 9
Last updated at 5:11 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak5719 AMTRAK · 719 San Joaquins · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight7:55 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
73h50
9:45 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL4 transfers
Thursday, July 10
amtrak4 Southwest Chief12:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
43h23
7:42 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg12:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
50h32
2:51 AM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner12:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
48h41
1:00 AM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr2:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
65h26
7:39 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 22 Texas Eagle5:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
61h44
6:44 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak2 Sunset Limited · 422 Texas Eagle5:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
61h44
6:44 PM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service5:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
70h43
3:43 AM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner5:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
68h00
1:00 AM Union Station, Chicago, IL1 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 bus or train

Thu
Jul 10
Fri
Jul 11
Sat
Jul 12
Sun
Jul 13
Mon
Jul 14
Tue
Jul 15
Wed
Jul 16

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 49h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $532 (€427) if you book in advance.
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
Distance
1740 miles (2801 km)
Average train duration
49h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$532 (€427)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
45h 23m
First train
01:00
Last train
22:00
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

Train Providers: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main train company in the United States operating medium and long-distance intercity services in 46 US states as well as in 3 Canadian provinces. There are over 300 Amtrak trains running daily. With Amtrak you can travel by train across the country and explore destinations near and far with routes such as the Northeast Regional connecting cities in the East Coast, the Coast Starlight connecting destinations up and down the West Coast, the Empire Builder connecting Chicago and Midwestern cities to the Northwest, and many more.
Luggage & cancellation policy
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

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

FAQs: Travel by train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
FAQs

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL

Los Angeles
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Los Angeles is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Los Angeles to Chicago.
Union StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
12
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Dining
Dining
  • Traxx Restaurant
  • Union Station Cafe
  • Philippe The Original
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
  • Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
  • Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
Shower
  • Cost $10
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
  • Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
  • Hall 3: Bus terminal
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
The major train station for arrivals in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Chicago from Los Angeles.
Union StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
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
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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

Most popular trains to and from Chicago and Los Angeles

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, ILLos Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone
More routes, destinations and providers
Currency
Language

Useful links