Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Wed, Feb 25
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Amtrak
Metrolink Trains
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Metrolink Trains
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Feb 25

Cheapest price

$542

Average price

$542

Fastest journey

1 d 21 h 16 m

Average duration

1 d 21 h 16 m

Trains per day

1

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 $542 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $542.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.

Metrolink Trains
05:26PM45h16
Santa Ana, CA
02:42PMChicago, IL
$5421One-way
1 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 train with prices starting from $207. 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 train costs an average of $207, and a bus costs an average of $305.

Distance: 1731 miles (2787 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$268

Average price

Cheapest

$349

Average price

$407

Average price

43h 22m

Average total duration

42h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 9m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

51h 20m

Average total duration

50h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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.

Wed
Feb 25
Thu
Feb 26
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Feb 27
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Feb 28
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Mar 01
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Mar 03

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 42h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $207 (€165) but you can travel from only $118 (€94) by flight.

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
Flight from $118 (€94)
Distance
1731 miles (2787 km)
Average train duration
42h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$207 (€165)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
44h 38m
First train
13:52
Last train
18:04
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 $118 (€94)

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 $118 (€94). 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
$207 (€165)
Amtrak frequency
2 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
$537 (€428)
Metrolink Trains frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $207 (€165), while the average price is around $268 (€213).
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 flight, with a cost of around $118 (€94).
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Ana, CA to Chicago, IL

Santa Ana
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Santa Ana is Santa Ana Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Ana Station for your trip from Santa Ana to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
Dining
  • The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant
  • Chapter One: the modern local
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Santa Ana
  • Courtyard by Marriott Santa Ana
  • Holiday Inn Santa Ana-Orange County Airport
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, ticket office, and waiting area
  • Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink services
Public transit options for Santa Ana Station
  • Bus: OCTA routes 53, 83, 206
  • Train: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, Metrolink Orange County Line

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

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