Salem, OR to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sun, Sep 20
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Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Salem, OR to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of $611 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $611, while a train costs an average of $694.

Distance: 1775 miles (2857 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight

$694

Average price

$611

Average price

Cheapest

65h 35m

Average total duration

65h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 43m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $611.

This is compared to other travel options from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL:

A flight is $83 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL costing on average $694.

The fastest way to travel from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 43m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 65h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salem, OR and Chicago, IL including taking a train and flight.

Live departures

Salem, OR to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Salem, OR to Chicago, IL trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak3:56 PM Salem, OR
53h49
9:45 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 Salem, OR to Chicago, IL by train or flight

Compare 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.

Sun
Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Sep 22
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Sep 24
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Sep 26

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL

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Trains from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 65h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $694 but you can travel from only $257 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 08:56, the last at 15:39. The fastest train covers the 1775 miles (2857 km) distance in 65h 5m.

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 $257
Distance
1775 miles (2857 km)
Average train duration
65h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
$694
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
65h 5m
First train
8:56 AM
Last train
3:39 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 $257

Complete guide to Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

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

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salem, OR 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 Salem, OR to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $694, while the average price is around $694.
The train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL runs once a day and takes approximately 65h 5m.
The distance by train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL is 1775 miles (2857 km).
The first train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL leaves at 8:56 AM.
The last train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL leaves at 3:39 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Salem, OR that goes to Chicago, IL is Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $257.
The train journey from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL on the Amtrak Empire Builder route offers scenic views of the Pacific Northwest, including the Cascade Mountains and Columbia River Gorge, transitioning to the expansive plains of the Midwest, providing a diverse and picturesque travel experience.
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.
No, you cannot take the train from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Salem, OR 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.
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 Salem, OR to Chicago, IL

Most Salem, OR to Chicago, IL trains use the Salem Railroad Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Salem, OR and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Salem
Arrival train stations in Chicago

Which Salem, OR station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?

Trains from Salem, OR to Chicago, IL leave from Salem Railroad Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Salem, OR city centre at 500 13th Street SE, Salem, OR 97301, USA.
Salem Railroad Station500 13th Street SE, Salem, OR 97301, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Salem Railroad Station from Salem city centre

Salem Railroad Station is 1 km from Salem city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus60x · 3m · $1

Salem Railroad Station train station facilities and services

Salem Railroad Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gamberetti's Italian Restaurant, Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Salem Railroad Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Salem Railroad Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salem Railroad Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salem Railroad Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salem Railroad Station: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Grand Hotel in Salem, Phoenix Inn Suites Salem, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Salem.

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