Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sat, Feb 21
+ Add return
Amtrak
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Ouigo
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Ouigo
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 Feb 23

Cheapest price

$288

Average price

$578

Fastest journey

1 d 19 h 23 m

Average duration

2 d 8 h 22 m

Trains per day

6

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 $578 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $288.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for Chicago, IL on Mon, Feb 23, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Feb 23 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 2 d 8 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 19 h 23 m .

On Mon, Feb 23 the slowest trains will take 3 d 1 h 50 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
02:42PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2881One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg
05:19PM50h32
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
09:51PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3121One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
05:19PM48h41
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
08:00PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3641One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight
12:55PM73h50
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
04:45PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$5441One-way
4 transfers
Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr
07:13PM65h26
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
02:39PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$5801One-way
2 transfers

Travel 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 €49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 53m. 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 €49, and a train costs an average of €133.

Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€284

Average price

€194

Average price

Cheapest

€272

Average price

48h 58m

Average total duration

48h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 53m

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

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Greyhound

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, Sunday, February 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:03 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
76h54
10:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
Monday, February 23
amtrak4 Southwest Chief1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
43h23
8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
50h32
3:51 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner1:19 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
48h41
2:00 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak1:19 AM Los Angeles, CA
50h32
3:51 AM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak3:13 AM Los Angeles, CA
65h26
8:39 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak422 Texas Eagle6:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
61h49
7:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 22 Texas Eagle6:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
61h49
7:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 306 Lincoln Service6:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
70h43
4:43 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak2 Sunset Limited · 422 Texas Eagle6:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
61h49
7:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak422 Texas Eagle · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner6:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
68h00
2:00 AM Chicago 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 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.

Mon
Feb 23
Tue
Feb 24
Wed
Feb 25
Thu
Feb 26
Fri
Feb 27
Sat
Feb 28
Sun
Mar 01
Mon
Mar 02
Tue
Mar 03
Wed
Mar 04
Thu
Mar 05
Fri
Mar 06
Sat
Mar 07
Sun
Mar 08
Mon
Mar 09
Tue
Mar 10
Wed
Mar 11
Thu
Mar 12
Fri
Mar 13
Sat
Mar 14
Sun
Mar 15

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 48h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $167 (€133) but you can travel from only $61 (€49) 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 43h 23m.

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 $61 (€49)
Distance
1741 miles (2802 km)
Average train duration
48h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$167 (€133)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
43h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $61 (€49)

Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL from $61 (€49). 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
43h 23m
Cheapest Price
$167 (€133)
Amtrak frequency
7 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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $167 (€133), while the average price is around $356 (€284).
The train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL takes 43h 23m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is 1741 miles (2802 km).
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:00 AM.
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $61 (€49).
The train journey from Los Angeles to Chicago is considered scenic as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the rugged splendor of the Rocky Mountains, the expansive deserts of the Southwest, and picturesque plains of the Midwest, offering passengers a unique view of the changing American countryside.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 43h 23m. However, trains run 7 times per day.
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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.

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.
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
Van Nuys, Metrolink StationLockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
25 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Public transit options for Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metro: Orange Line
Chatsworth StationParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
39 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
Public transit options for Chatsworth Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metrolink: Ventura County Line

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA

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