The cheapest and fastest trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$1012
Average price
$1012
Fastest journey
2 d 8 h 31 m
Average duration
2 d 8 h 31 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
2942 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $1012 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1012.
It's difficult to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.


Live departures
San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Saturday, March 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 6:11 AM San Luis Obispo, CA | 56h31 | 2:42 PM Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
![]() | 4:12 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 69h32 | 1:44 PM Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Luis Obispo, 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.
Mar 22
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Mar 24
Mar 25
Mar 26
Mar 27
Mar 28
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL
Take a train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL and enjoy the approximately 1828 miles (2942 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 15:05.
Distance 1828 miles (2942 km) |
Average train duration 66h 19m |
Trains per day 8 |
First train 00:30 |
Last train 15:05 |
Cheapest month Oct |
Cheapest day Mon |
High season Apr - Jun |
Low season Jul - Sep |
Train companies: Amtrak from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Luis Obispo, CA and Chicago, IL. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
FAQs: Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available on-site with both short-term and long-term options.
- Novo Restaurant & Lounge
- Firestone Grill
- Outside the main entrance.
- $1
- Apple Farm Inn
- Hotel San Luis Obispo
- Granada Hotel & Bistro
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station has a single platform with a waiting area and ticketing services.
- Bus: SLO Transit Route 1A, 1B, 3, 4, 5
- RTA Route 9
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from San Luis Obispo, CA
More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, CA to Chicago, IL
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