Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Fri, Nov 07
+ Add return
Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
Italo
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1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$286

Average price

$376

Fastest journey

2 d 4 h 4 m

Average duration

2 d 7 h 1 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

2971 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Richmond, 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 Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $376 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $286.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Richmond, CA for Chicago, IL on Fri, Nov 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 2971 km distance in an average of 2 d 7 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 4 h 4 m .

On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 2 d 11 h 16 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.

Amtrak6 California Zephyr
08:35AM52h04
Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
02:39PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2861One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak524 Capitol Corridor · 6 California Zephyr
07:46AM52h53
Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
02:39PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2941One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak6 California Zephyr · 382 Carl Sandburg
08:35AM59h16
Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
09:51PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$3061One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief
07:54AM52h48
Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
02:42PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4281One-way
2 transfers
Amtrak710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
07:54AM58h06
Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
08:00PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$4421One-way
3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €157. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €157, and a bus costs an average of €348.

Distance: 1846 miles (2971 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€218

Average price

Cheapest

€280

Average price

€348

Average price

52h 0m

Average total duration

51h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

49h 40m

Average total duration

49h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:55 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak524 Capitol Corridor · 6 California Zephyr3:46 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
52h53
8:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief · 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner3:54 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
58h06
2:00 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL3 transfers
amtrak710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief3:54 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
52h48
8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers
amtrak6 California Zephyr4:35 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
52h04
8:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak6 California Zephyr · 382 Carl Sandburg4:35 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
59h16
3:51 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 422 Texas Eagle5:54 PM Richmond Station, Richmond, CA
73h50
7:44 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL by train

Compare train 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
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13

Journey information

Overview: Train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train
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
1846 miles (2971 km)
Average train duration
51h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$193 (€157)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
52h 4m
First train
07:32
Last train
18:00

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL start from as low as $193 (€157) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $267 (€218) depending on the train type and class.
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 companies: Amtrak from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Richmond, CA and Chicago, IL from $193 (€157). 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
52h 4m
Cheapest Price
$193 (€157)
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

FAQs: Trains from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, 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
The distance by train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL is 1846 miles (2971 km).
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.
The train journey from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL offers scenic views, especially as it traverses the Sierra Nevada and the Rocky Mountains, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes of mountains, forests, and rivers along the way.
The first train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:32 AM.
Train ticket prices from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $193 (€157), while the average price is around $267 (€218).
The last train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:00 PM.
The cheapest way to get from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $193 (€157).
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.
The train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL takes 52h 4m and runs 6 per day.
A day trip from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 52h 4m. The distance is 1846 miles (2971 km). However, there are 6 trips per day available for trains.
The train station in Richmond, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Richmond Station, Richmond, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
There is no high speed train available from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, you can take the train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL

Richmond
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Richmond is Richmond Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Richmond Station for your trip from Richmond to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
3
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: Main entrance, BART platforms
  • Hall 2: Amtrak platforms
Public transit options for Richmond Station
  • BART: Richmond Line
  • Amtrak: Capitol Corridor

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Richmond, CA

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