San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Wed 28 Oct
+ 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 28 Oct

Cheapest price on 28 Oct

£213

Average ticket price on 28 Oct

£299

Fastest journey on 28 Oct

2 d 5 h 39 m

Average journey duration on 28 Oct

2 d 15 h 35 m

Trains on 28 Oct

5

Distance

2983 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around £299 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £213.

Fast trains

On Wed 28 Oct, we found 5 trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, including 5 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 2983 km distance in an average of 2 d 15 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 5 h 39 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 d 2 h 9 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.

  • Amtrak
    15:0053h39
    San Francisco, CA
    20:39Chicago, IL
    £2131One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    6:3562h07
    San Francisco, CA
    20:42Chicago, IL
    £2471One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    5:3562h07
    San Francisco, CA
    19:42Chicago, IL
    £2521One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    3:5065h55
    San Francisco, CA
    21:45Chicago, IL
    £3511One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    16:4074h09
    San Francisco, CA
    18:49Chicago, IL
    £4321One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

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Trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 55h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £97 but you can travel from only £50 by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 2983 km distance in 52h 5m.

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 £50
Distance
2983 km
Average train duration
55h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
£97
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
52h 5m
First train
4:55
Last train
22:35
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 £50

Frequently asked questions about your San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trip

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

The cost of a train ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £97, while the average price tends to be around £270.
The train journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 2983 km and takes approximately 52h 5m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is 2983 km.
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:55.
The last train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL departs at 22:35.
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL run approximately 3 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Live departures

San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Tuesday 27 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak6624 · 67:00 San Francisco, CA
53h39
14:39 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 change
Amtrak5014 · 14 · 2820:50 San Francisco, CA
65h55
16:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 changes
Wednesday 28 October
Amtrak3:50 San Francisco, CA
65h55
21:45 Chicago, IL0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL from £50. 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
52h 5m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£97
Amtrak frequency
3 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 San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL

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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a night train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.

Complete guide to Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

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

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Science museum in Jackson Park with hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and broad appeal for families and curious adults.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Natural history museum on the Museum Campus, known for dinosaur fossils, gem displays, and wide-ranging science exhibits.

US dollar ($)

Expensive by US city standards: hotels, dining and attractions add up, though buses and the 'L' help keep daily costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$80+ 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 given.

Plan your visit to Chicago, IL

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 Chicago, IL.

The train journey from San Francisco to Chicago is renowned for its scenic views, featuring stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the expansive Utah desert, and the picturesque Rocky Mountains. Passengers can enjoy panoramic vistas of diverse terrains, making it a visually captivating experience.

FAQs: San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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.

FAQs
Booking trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL

Most San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trains use the to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, 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 San Francisco
Arrival train stations in Chicago

Which Chicago, IL station do trains from San Francisco, CA arrive at?

Trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre.
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.

More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, IL San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL train

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