Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Wed, Jan 14
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jan 15

Cheapest price

$220

Average price

$247

Fastest journey

1 d 1 h 22 m

Average duration

1 d 1 h 50 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

993 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Richmond, VA 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, VA to Chicago, IL will cost around $247 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $220.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Richmond, VA for Chicago, IL on Thu, Jan 15, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jan 15 the direct trains cover the 993 km distance in an average of 1 d 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 1 h 22 m .

On Thu, Jan 15 the slowest trains will take 1 d 2 h 18 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
11:27AM26h18
Richmond, VA
01:45PMChicago, IL
$2201One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak
12:23PM25h22
Richmond, VA
01:45PMChicago, IL
$2731One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €78. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €78, and a flight costs an average of €80.

Distance: 617 miles (993 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€178

Average price

€213

Average price

€116

Average price

Cheapest

21h 52m

Average total duration

21h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

21h 50m

Average total duration

21h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Republic Airlines

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Wednesday, January 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:51 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak3:30 PM Richmond, VA
23h30
3:00 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Thursday, January 15
amtrak11:27 AM Richmond, VA
26h18
1:45 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak12:23 PM Richmond, VA
25h22
1:45 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 Richmond, VA 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.

Thu
Jan 15
Fri
Jan 16
Sat
Jan 17
Sun
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21

Why should you book Richmond to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Richmond to Chicago. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Richmond to Chicago.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Richmond to Chicago.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL start from as low as $115 (€93) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $221 (€178) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 10 daily trains from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with 1 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 20h 53m but the average duration is 21h 22m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with Amtrak
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Amtrak.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA and arrive in Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
  • First train typically departs at 04:52 AM and the last at 06:40 PM
Distance
617 miles (993 km)
Average train duration
21h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$115 (€93)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
20h 53m
First train
04:52
Last train
18:40
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 $97 (€78)
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 $97 (€78)

Train companies: Amtrak from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Richmond, VA and Chicago, IL from $97 (€78). 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
20h 53m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€93)
Amtrak frequency
10 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, VA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $115 (€93), while the average price is around $221 (€178).
The train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL takes 20h 53m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is 617 miles (993 km).
The first train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:52 AM.
The last train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Richmond, VA that goes to Chicago, IL is Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $97 (€78).
The train journey from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, charming small towns, and expansive farmlands, making it a pleasant and diverse visual experience.
A day trip from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 20h 53m, covering a distance of 617 miles (993 km). However, there are 10 train trips available 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Richmond
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Richmond is Staples Mill Road Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Staples Mill Road Station for your trip from Richmond to Chicago.
Staples Mill Road StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
7 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
3
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available on-site with spaces for short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a single-level layout with an enclosed waiting area and ticketing services.
Public transit options for Staples Mill Road Station
  • Bus: GRTC Route 19
  • Taxi services available
Main Street StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station with access from Main Street.
Dining
Dining
  • The Roosevelt
  • Lemaire Restaurant
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Berkeley Hotel
  • Omni Richmond Hotel
  • The Commonwealth
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform access, ticket office, and waiting area
Public transit options for Main Street Station
  • Bus: GRTC Pulse
  • Several local bus lines available

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, ILRichmond, VA to Chicago, IL train

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