Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Fri, Jun 05
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jun 05

Cheapest price

$1119

Average price

$1119

Fastest journey

2 d 22 h 19 m

Average duration

2 d 22 h 19 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

2674 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $1119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1119.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Palm Springs, CA for Chicago, IL on Fri, Jun 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 2674 km distance in an average of 2 d 22 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 22 h 19 m .

On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 2 d 22 h 19 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.

  • Amtrak
    9:20 PM70h19
    Palm Springs, CA
    7:39 PMChicago, IL
    $11191One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $159. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $159, and a train costs an average of $203.

Distance: 1661 miles (2674 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$472

Average price

$402

Average price

$287

Average price

Cheapest

$406

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

45h 28m

Average total duration

44h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

52h 53m

Average total duration

52h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

29h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $287 (€232).

This is compared to other travel options from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL:

A bus is $114 (€92) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $402 (€324).

A bus is $185 (€149) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $472 (€381).

The fastest way to travel from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 12m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 44h 58m.

Bus takes on average 52h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, 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 $472 (€381) compared to roughly $406 (€328) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-66.21 (€-53.43). The journey takes 44h 58m versus 29h 10m 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

Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak9:20 PM Palm Springs, CA
46h22
7:42 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Palm Springs, 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.

Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 44h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $203 (€164) but you can travel from only $159 (€128) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:36, the last at 14:25. The fastest train covers the 1661 miles (2674 km) distance in 46h 22m.

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 $159 (€128)
Distance
1661 miles (2674 km)
Average train duration
44h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$203 (€164)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
46h 22m
First train
12:36 AM
Last train
2:25 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
Bus from $159 (€128)

Train companies: Amtrak from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Palm Springs, CA and Chicago, IL from $159 (€128). 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
46h 22m
Cheapest Price
$203 (€164)
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

Things to do in Chicago

Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.

  • Must visit

Art Institute Of Chicago

One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and large family-friendly science exhibits.

  • Must visit

Museum Of Science And Industry

Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park with a U-505 submarine, aviation exhibits, and immersive interactive displays.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Hotels can be pricey downtown, but food and transit offer good value.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.

FAQs: Trains from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $203 (€164), while the average price is around $472 (€381).
The train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL takes 46h 22m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:36 AM.
The distance by train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL is 1661 miles (2674 km).
The last train from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 2:25 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $159 (€128).
The train journey from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL offers scenic views of diverse landscapes, including the expansive deserts of California, the rugged terrain of Arizona and New Mexico, and the rolling plains and farmland as you approach the Midwest.
A day trip from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible due to the journey's duration of 46h 22m and distance of 1661 miles (2674 km). Trains operate 5 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 Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

Palm Springs
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Palm Springs is Palm Springs, International Airport (E Tahquitz Canyon Way). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Palm Springs, International Airport (E Tahquitz Canyon Way) for your trip from Palm Springs to Chicago.
Palm Springs, International Airport (E Tahquitz Canyon Way)
information
Palm Springs, SunLine Transit Bus Stop
information
Palm Springs StationDiningAccessibility
Amenities at train station
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility

Most popular train connections from Palm Springs, CA

More options for your journey from Palm Springs, CA to Chicago, IL

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