Chicago, IL to Austin, TX train with Amtrak

Sun 01 Nov
+ Add return
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Nov
Cheapest price on 01 Nov
£226
Average ticket price on 01 Nov
£365
Fastest journey on 01 Nov
1 d 4 h 57 m
Average journey duration on 01 Nov
1 d 8 h 4 m
Trains on 01 Nov
6
Distance
1573 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX will cost around £365 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £226.

Fast trains

On Sun 01 Nov, we found 6 trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX, including 2 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 1573 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 .

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
    1 change
  • Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 21 Texas Eagle
    1 change
  • Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 421 Texas Eagle
    1 change
  • Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle
    1 change
  • Amtrak421 Texas Eagle
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

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Trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX run on average 4 times per day, taking around 28h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £94 but you can travel from only £43 by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:15, the last at 14:10. The fastest train covers the 1573 km distance in 27h 39m.

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 £43
Distance
1573 km
Average train duration
28h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£94
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
27h 39m
First train
7:15
Last train
14:10
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 £43

Frequently asked questions about your Chicago, IL to Austin, TX trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £94, while the average price tends to be around £255.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX covers a distance of 1573 km and takes approximately 27h 39m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is 1573 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leaves at 7:15.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX departs at 14:10.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX run approximately 4 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Austin, TX train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX trains for tomorrow, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 421 Texas Eagle7:15 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
35h52
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX1 change
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 21 Texas Eagle7:15 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
35h52
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX1 change
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 21 Texas Eagle9:50 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
33h17
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX1 change
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 421 Texas Eagle9:50 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
33h17
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX1 change
Amtrak21 Texas Eagle14:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
28h57
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX0 changesdirect
Amtrak421 Texas Eagle14:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
28h57
19:07 Austin Station, Austin, TX0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX from £43. 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 Amtrak Duration
27h 39m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£94
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.
Yes, there is a night train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

Complete guide to Austin, TX

Things to do in Austin, TX

Discover the best of Austin, TX — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Austin, TX trip today.

  • Must visit

Blanton Museum of Art

University museum noted for European paintings, prints, photography and thought-provoking temporary exhibitions in a striking building.

  • Recommended

The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center

Leading art museum with American, Latin American and contemporary works, plus sculpture gardens and strong rotating exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Mexic-Arte Museum

Compact museum celebrating Mexican American and Latinx visual culture through changing exhibitions and community-centred programmes.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, while casual food is reasonable; public transport is limited, so visitors often spend more on taxis or car hire.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual spots.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if table service is provided.

Plan your visit to Austin, TX

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Austin, TX.

The train journey from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the picturesque Mississippi River region and the rolling hills of the Midwest, making parts of the trip scenic.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to Austin, TX train

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

FAQs
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Austin, TX

Most Chicago, IL to Austin, TX trains use the Union Station to Austin Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Austin, TX train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Austin

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Austin, TX leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · £3 · 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.

Train stations for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

Check train stations information for Chicago, IL and Austin, TX, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Austin, TX is Union Station, and it arrives at Austin Station.

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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