Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX train with Amtrak

Sun, May 31
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX

Showing times and prices for May 31

Cheapest price

$237

Average price

$433

Fastest journey

1 d 4 h 57 m

Average duration

1 d 8 h 4 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

1576 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX will cost around $433 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $237.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL for Austin Station, Austin, TX on Sun, May 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 1576 km distance in an average of 1 d 8 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 4 h 57 m .

On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 1 d 11 h 52 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.

  • Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 21 Texas Eagle
    7:15 AM35h52
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:07 PMAustin Station, Austin, TX
    $2371One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 421 Texas Eagle
    7:15 AM35h52
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:07 PMAustin Station, Austin, TX
    $2701One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 21 Texas Eagle
    9:50 AM33h17
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:07 PMAustin Station, Austin, TX
    $2791One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle
    9:50 AM33h17
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:07 PMAustin Station, Austin, TX
    $3121One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak21 Texas Eagle
    2:10 PM28h57
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    7:07 PMAustin Station, Austin, TX
    $7101One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $119. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 10h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $119, and a flight costs an average of $79.

Distance: 979 miles (1576 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$262

Average price

$206

Average price

Cheapest

$271

Average price

$240

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

26h 26m

Average total duration

25h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

27h 47m

Average total duration

27h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

13h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

10h 27m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX is a bus with an average price of $206 (€166).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX:

A bus is $56 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX costing on average $262 (€211).

A bus is $65 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX costing on average $271 (€218).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 10h 27m.

Other travel options to Austin Station, Austin, TX take longer:

Train takes on average 25h 56m.

Bus takes on average 27h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL and Austin Station, Austin, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX 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 $262 (€211) compared to roughly $240 (€193) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.18 (€-17.86). The journey takes 25h 56m versus 16h 51m 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

Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak21 Texas Eagle2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
28h57
7:07 PM Austin Station, Austin, TX0 transfersDirect
Sunday, May 31
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 21 Texas Eagle7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
35h52
7:07 PM Austin Station, Austin, TX1 transfer
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 421 Texas Eagle7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
35h52
7:07 PM Austin Station, Austin, TX1 transfer
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 21 Texas Eagle9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
33h17
7:07 PM Austin Station, Austin, TX1 transfer
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
33h17
7:07 PM Austin Station, Austin, TX1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX 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.

Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX run on average 4 times per day, taking around 25h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $128 (€103) but you can travel from only $79 (€64) by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 12:15, the last at 20:10. The fastest train covers the 979 miles (1576 km) distance in 28h 57m.

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 $79 (€64)
Distance
979 miles (1576 km)
Average train duration
25h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$128 (€103)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
28h 57m
First train
12:15 PM
Last train
8:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $79 (€64)

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL and Austin Station, Austin, TX from $79 (€64). 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
28h 57m
Cheapest Price
$128 (€103)
Amtrak frequency
4 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

FAQs: Trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX 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 Austin Station, Austin, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $128 (€103), while the average price is around $262 (€211).
The train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX takes 28h 57m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX leaves at 12:15 PM.
The distance by train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX is 979 miles (1576 km).
The last train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX leaves at 8:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX is by flight, with a cost of around $79 (€64).
The train journey from Chicago Union Station, IL to Austin Station, TX offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travelers can enjoy views of the Mississippi River, rolling plains, and charming small towns, providing a pleasant and varied landscape throughout the trip.
A day trip from Chicago Union Station, IL to Austin Station, TX is not feasible as the journey takes 28h 57m and the distance is 979 miles (1576 km). Trains run 4 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX.
Since neither Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL nor Austin Station, Austin, TX 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX 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.
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 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Austin Station, Austin, TX

Chicago
Austin
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Austin.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
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
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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 trains to and from Austin Station, Austin, TX and Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL

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