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- Free Drinks
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- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Sept
Cheapest price on 12 Sept
£388
Average ticket price on 12 Sept
£388
Fastest journey on 12 Sept
2 d 17 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 12 Sept
2 d 17 h 55 m
Trains on 12 Sept
1
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 £388 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £388.
Fast trains
To travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL you need to make at least 2 changes.
5014 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder20:5065h55San Francisco, CA16:45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£3881One-way2 changes
- 5014 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder20:5065h55San Francisco, CA16:45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£3881One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of £137 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.9 - 2.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of £137, while a train costs an average of £229.
Distance: 2983 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£229 Average Price | £137 Average Price Cheapest | £143 Average Price | £334 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
54h 30m Average total duration 54h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 51m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 52h 17m Average total duration 51h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.9 - 17.9kg CO2 emissions | 3.0 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of £137.
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is £6 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average £143.
A flight is £92 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average £229.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 51m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Coach takes on average 51h 47m.
Train takes on average 54h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a coach, train and flight.
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 £229 compared to roughly £334 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £105. The journey takes 54h 0m versus 30h 53m 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
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday 11 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5014 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight · 28 Empire Builder | 20:50 San Francisco, CA | 65h55 | 16:45 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 54h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £98 but you can travel from only £82 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 2983 km distance in 52h 14m.
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 £82
Distance 2983 km |
Average train duration 54h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price £98 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 52h 14m |
First train 4:55 |
Last train 22:35 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
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 £82
Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL from £82. 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 14m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£98
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
Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL from £82. 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 14m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£98
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
What's included in each class
Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.
Business Class Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
- WC
Business Travel Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
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.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and frequent events at the heart of central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Bustling avenue for architecture, shopping, river views, and easy walking between landmark buildings and major attractions.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River with terraces, bridges, boat access, and excellent close-up architecture views.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago classic with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked in a deep pan.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in savoury juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
North Pond
Elegant fine-dining restaurant rooted in Midwestern ingredients, with polished service and a refined contemporary dining room.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Historic pizzeria known for classic Chicago deep-dish in a lively, casual setting near the Magnificent Mile.
Al's Beef
Long-running counter-service spot famed for Italian beef sandwiches, dipped rolls and spicy giardiniera in a no-frills setting.
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.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £98, while the average price tends to be around £229.
The train journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 2983 km and takes approximately 52h 14m. Trains run 5 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 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
To get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight, costing approximately £82.
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.
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.
A day trip from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 52h 14m with a distance of 2983 km. The frequency is 6 per day for trains.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry for interactive exhibits on science and technology or discover the vibrant neighbourhoods of Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, renowned for their unique shops and eateries. Take a river cruise to admire the city's iconic architecture, or enjoy a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Spend a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest in the U.S. and free to enter. For sightseeing, visit Millennium Park with its modern art installations, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Willis Tower Skydeck for panoramic city views, or the Field Museum to see the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, including its museums, architecture, and dining, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
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 San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) 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 San Francisco, CA station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leave from San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). The station is 3 km from San Francisco, CA city centre at 4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) train station facilities and services
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
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+1 800-872-7245
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
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA
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