- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$439
Average price
$999
Fastest journey
1 d 21 h 25 m
Average duration
2 d 7 h 35 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
2787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $999 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $439.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
785 Pacific Surfliner · 422 Texas Eagle6:04 PM65h45Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$4391One-way1 transfer- 581 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief4:04 PM45h25Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA3:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$15591One-way1 transfer
- 581 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief4:04 PM45h25Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA3:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$15591One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 422 Texas Eagle6:04 PM65h45Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$4391One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $196. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $196, and a train costs an average of $242.
Distance: 1731 miles (2787 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$459 Average price | $405 Average price | $299 Average price Cheapest | $405 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
43h 28m Average total duration 42h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 9m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 51h 53m Average total duration 51h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 29h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $299 (€246).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $106 (€87) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $405 (€333).
A bus is $160 (€132) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $459 (€377).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 9m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 42h 58m.
Bus takes on average 51h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Ana, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Ana, 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 $459 (€377) compared to roughly $405 (€333) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-54.04 (€-44.40). The journey takes 42h 58m versus 29h 5m 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
Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:04 PM Santa Ana, CA | 44h38 | 7:42 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 42h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $242 (€199) but you can travel from only $196 (€161) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 13:52, the last at 18:04. The fastest train covers the 1731 miles (2787 km) distance in 44h 38m.
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 $196 (€161)
Distance 1731 miles (2787 km) |
Average train duration 42h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $242 (€199) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 44h 38m |
First train 1:52 PM |
Last train 6:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $196 (€161)
Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between Santa Ana, CA and Chicago, IL from $196 (€161). 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
44h 38m
Cheapest Price
$242 (€199)
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
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
45h 16m
Cheapest Price
$923 (€758)
Metrolink Trains frequency
1 a day
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
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
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 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Ana, 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.
Train ticket prices from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $242 (€199), while the average price is around $459 (€377).
The train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL takes 44h 38m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL is 1731 miles (2787 km).
The first train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:52 PM.
The last train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Santa Ana, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $196 (€161).
The train journey from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL offers diverse scenery, including California's coastline, desert landscapes, and the expansive plains of the Midwest, providing a varied and picturesque experience.
A day trip from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 44h 38m and the distance is 1731 miles (2787 km). Additionally, there are only 2 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 Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, 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.
Most popular train connections from Santa Ana, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Santa Ana, CA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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