- 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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$764
Average price
$973
Fastest journey
1 d 21 h 50 m
Average duration
3 d 59 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
2789 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL will cost around $973 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $764.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave Seattle, WA for Chicago, IL on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 2789 km distance in an average of 3 d 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 21 h 50 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 4 d 1 h 54 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
11 Coast Starlight · 6 California Zephyr9:55 AM74h44King Street Station, Seattle, WA2:39 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$7641One-way1 transfer- 11 Coast Starlight · 422 Texas Eagle9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8331One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3812 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8581One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8581One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3712 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8581One-way4 transfers
- 8 Empire Builder4:55 PM45h50King Street Station, Seattle, WA4:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$12991One-way0 transfers
- 8 Empire Builder · 1340 Borealis4:55 PM48h31King Street Station, Seattle, WA7:26 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$13401One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 6 California Zephyr9:55 AM74h44King Street Station, Seattle, WA2:39 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$7641One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3812 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8581One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM97h54King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:49 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$8581One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $139. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 46m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $139, and a train costs an average of $144.
Distance: 1733 miles (2789 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$470 Average price | $353 Average price | $307 Average price Cheapest |
49h 34m Average total duration 49h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 46m Average total duration Fastest 4h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 72h 52m Average total duration 72h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.7kg CO2 emissions | 2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $307 (€248).
This is compared to other travel options from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $46 (€37) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL costing on average $353 (€285).
A bus is $164 (€132) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL costing on average $470 (€380).
The fastest way to travel from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 46m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 49h 4m.
Bus takes on average 72h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Live departures
Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Empire Builder · 28 Empire Builder | 4:55 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 45h50 | 4:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 8 Empire Builder | 4:55 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 45h50 | 4:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 16 | |||||
| 11 Coast Starlight · 6 California Zephyr | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 74h44 | 2:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3812 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 97h54 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 422 Texas Eagle | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 97h54 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 97h54 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3712 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 97h54 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Seattle, WA 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL?
The best time to book your train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL.
Trains
from $237Buses
from $175Flights
from $239Journey information
Overview: Train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 49h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $144 (€116) but you can travel from only $124 (€100) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:49, the last at 18:00. The fastest train covers the 1733 miles (2789 km) distance in 45h 50m.
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 $124 (€100)
Distance 1733 miles (2789 km) |
Average train duration 49h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $144 (€116) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 45h 50m |
First train 9:49 AM |
Last train 6:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $124 (€100)
Train companies: Amtrak from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Seattle, WA and Chicago, IL from $124 (€100). 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
45h 50m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€116)
Amtrak frequency
7 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
Major natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and large family-friendly science exhibits.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park with a U-505 submarine, aviation exhibits, and immersive interactive displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate and major events, with strong appeal for first-time visitors and photographers.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River, popular for architecture views, strolling, and social-media-friendly city scenes.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of North Michigan Avenue known for landmark architecture, flagship stores, and busy big-city energy.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Hotels can be pricey downtown, but food and transit offer good value.
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 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
FAQs: Trains from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $144 (€116), while the average price is around $470 (€380).
The train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL takes 45h 50m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:49 AM.
The distance by train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is 1733 miles (2789 km).
The last train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Seattle, WA that goes to Chicago, IL is King Street Station, Seattle, WA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $124 (€100).
The train journey from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is considered scenic as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the Cascade Mountains, the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest, and the expansive plains of the Midwest, offering travelers picturesque views and a unique cross-country experience.
A day trip from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 45h 50m. There are 7 trips available per day for trains. The distance is 1733 miles (2789 km).
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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
Seattle
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Seattle is King Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at King Street Station for your trip from Seattle to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
Lockers
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with several parking lots and garages in the vicinity.
Dining
- The London Plane
- Salumi
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square
- The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak and Sounder trains
Public transit options for King Street Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Light Rail: Link Light Rail at International District/Chinatown Station
The major train station for arrivals in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Chicago from Seattle.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
24Wifi
- Free
Parking
- 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.
Dining
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
Most popular train connections from Seattle, WA
More options for your journey from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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