- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $103. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $103, and a train costs an average of $225.
Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$276 Average price | $195 Average price Cheapest | $254 Average price |
54h 48m Average total duration 54h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 9m Average total duration Fastest 8h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 53h 38m Average total duration 53h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $195 (€160).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $58 (€48) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $254 (€209).
A flight is $81 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $276 (€227).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 9m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 8m.
Train takes on average 54h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 8 times per day, taking around 54h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $225 (€185) but you can travel from only $103 (€84) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 08:31, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 51h 53m.
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 $103 (€84)
Distance 1803 miles (2903 km) |
Average train duration 54h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $225 (€185) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 51h 53m |
First train 8:31 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 days |
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 $103 (€84)
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL from $103 (€84). 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
51h 53m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€185)
Amtrak frequency
8 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
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 Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $225 (€185), while the average price is around $276 (€227).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL takes 51h 53m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 8:31 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is 1803 miles (2903 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 10:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $103 (€84).
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is quite scenic, offering picturesque views of the Pacific coastline, sweeping landscapes of the American Southwest, and the diverse terrains of the Midwest, making it a visually pleasing experience for travelers.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 51h 53m and covers 1803 miles (2903 km). The frequency of the trip is 9 per day for trains.
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 Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara, 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA 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 Santa Barbara
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leave from Santa Barbara Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at 209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, University of California
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · $4
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · $2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
