- Must visit
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Major collection of American art from colonial works to contemporary pieces, located in the nearby Penn Quarter district.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$919
Average price
$1564
Fastest journey
1 d 20 h 42 m
Average duration
2 d 14 h
Trains per day
7
Distance
2802 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA will cost around $1564 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $919.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL for Union Station, Los Angeles, CA on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 2802 km distance in an average of 2 d 14 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 20 h 42 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 3 d 4 h 10 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.
27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner3:05 PM76h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9191One-way4 transfers- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner3:05 PM76h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9191One-way4 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner3:05 PM76h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9191One-way4 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight3:05 PM80h06Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9371One-way1 transfer
- 5 California Zephyr · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK2:00 PM62h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2:25 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$19101One-way2 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief1:30 PM44h42Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:12 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$19711One-way0 transfers
- 381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief7:40 AM50h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:12 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$33741One-way1 transfer
- 5 California Zephyr · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK2:00 PM62h25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2:25 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$19101One-way2 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner3:05 PM76h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9191One-way4 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner3:05 PM76h10Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:15 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$9191One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $74, and a train costs an average of $162.
Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$348 Average price | $238 Average price Cheapest | $248 Average price | $13 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
48h 53m Average total duration 48h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 2m Average total duration Fastest 5h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 46h 0m Average total duration 45h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 29h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA is a flight with an average price of $238 (€195).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA:
A flight is $10 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA costing on average $248 (€203).
A flight is $111 (€91) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA costing on average $348 (€286).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 2m.
Other travel options to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 45h 30m.
Train takes on average 48h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL and Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 $348 (€286) compared to roughly $13 (€11) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-335.55 (€-275.09). The journey takes 48h 23m versus 29h 3m 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief | 7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 50h32 | 8:12 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle | 9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 69h45 | 5:35 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3 Southwest Chief | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 44h42 | 8:12 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5 California Zephyr · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK | 2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 62h25 | 2:25 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 21 Texas Eagle · 1 Sunset Limited | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 65h25 | 5:35 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 421 Texas Eagle | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 65h25 | 5:35 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 21 Texas Eagle · 421 Texas Eagle | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 65h25 | 5:35 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 76h10 | 5:15 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 76h10 | 5:15 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 80h06 | 9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 76h10 | 5:15 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA by train, bus, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 48h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $162 (€133) but you can travel from only $74 (€61) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 12:40, the last at 20:25. The fastest train covers the 1741 miles (2802 km) distance in 43h 32m.
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 $74 (€61)
Distance 1741 miles (2802 km) |
Average train duration 48h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $162 (€133) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 43h 32m |
First train 12:40 PM |
Last train 8:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $74 (€61)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL and Union Station, Los Angeles, CA from $74 (€61). 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
43h 32m
Cheapest Price
$162 (€133)
Amtrak frequency
10 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 Union Station
Things to do in Union Station
Discover the best of Union Station — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Union Station trip today.
- Must visit
National Portrait Gallery
Celebrated museum of portraits of influential Americans, sharing a historic building with the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
World-class art museum with masterworks from Europe and America, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Capitol Hill
Historic neighborhood of row houses, political institutions, and leafy streets that is ideal for walking near Union Station.
- Must visit
National Mall
Washington’s monumental park corridor lined with museums and memorials, essential for first-time visitors and long scenic walks.
- Recommended
Penn Quarter
Central district known for museums, theaters, and lively streets, popular with visitors exploring downtown on foot.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An All-Beef Hot Dog On A Poppy Seed Bun With Mustard, Relish, Onion, Tomato, Sport Peppers, Pickle, And Celery Salt. It Is A Classic Chicago Specialty.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-Sliced Roast Beef Simmered In Jus And Served On A Roll, Often Dipped And Topped With Giardiniera Or Sweet Peppers. A Defining Chicago Sandwich.
Deep-Dish Pizza
A Thick, Pan-Baked Pizza With Layers Of Cheese, Toppings, And Chunky Tomato Sauce. It Is One Of Chicago's Most Famous Comfort Foods.
Smyth
A Nationally Acclaimed Fine Dining Restaurant In The West Loop Offering A Refined Tasting Menu Experience.
Girl & The Goat
A Celebrated West Loop Restaurant Known For Bold Small Plates, Creative Cooking, And A Lively Atmosphere.
Lou Mitchell's
A Historic Diner Near Union Station Known For Breakfast, Classic American Plates, And Old-School Chicago Hospitality.
United States Dollar
Costs are moderate by major U.S. city standards. Fast food is affordable, but sit-down dining and station-area prices are higher.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: tip 18-20% before tax for table service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Cafes: optional small tip. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff: USD 1-5 depending on service.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $162 (€133), while the average price is around $348 (€286).
The train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA takes 43h 32m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA is 1741 miles (2802 km).
The first train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:40 PM.
The last train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA leaves at 8:25 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $74 (€61).
The train journey from Chicago Union Station, IL to Union Station, CA is considered scenic as it traverses diverse landscapes, including the Mississippi River, the Rocky Mountains, and deserts, offering picturesque views of the American Midwest and West Coast.
A day trip from Chicago Union Station, IL to Union Station, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 43h 32m and covers 1741 miles (2802 km). The frequency is 8 per day for trains.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL nor Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Oceanside, CA, Irvine, CA, Fullerton, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
Chicago
Los Angeles
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 Los Angeles.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number 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
The major train station for arrivals in Los Angeles is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Los Angeles from Chicago.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
ShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue
Dining
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, restrooms
WC
- $1
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
- Cost $10
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
Most popular train connections from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Most popular trains to and from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA and Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
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