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Cheap train tickets from Denver to Chicago

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Denver to Chicago Train Schedule

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Is it better to travel by bus or train from Denver to Chicago?

There are usually 8 daily bus trips from Denver to Chicago.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
$330.57
Avg. Price
$288.09
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
8
Daily Trips
2
Duration
Duration
1d 6h 16m
Duration
22h 16m

Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Denver to Chicago. Traveling by train from Denver to Chicago usually takes 22 hours and 16 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 18 hours and 40 minutes.

Distance918 mi (1478 km)
Fastest train18h 40m
Lowest price$159.99
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Denver to Chicago

(Based on 4 ratings and reviews)

4.3

4.0

Daniel

November 29, 2021- Visiting family

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: The peace and quiet and comfort of the ride a little chilly during the night. Cons: Open the meal café to the public again.

4.0

Sandra

September 19, 2019- Vacation

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: Scenery. Cons: Still difficult to sleep.

Price trends for trains from Denver to Chicago

Average train ticket prices from Denver to Chicago by travel date

$442$295$147DecDec

Average train ticket prices from Denver to Chicago by month

$316$253$189$126$63JFMAMJJASOND

Which train should you take from Denver to Chicago?

2 train services operate from Denver to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak11d 1h 52m$301.13
Amtrak California Zephyr118h 40m$257.13
  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Denver to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $180.

  • Amtrak’s California Zephyr travels over 2,400 miles to connect Chicago to the San Francisco area. The full journey takes over 50 hours, so many passengers upgrade to a sleeper cabin for added privacy and comfort. The Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, and the sightseer lounge’s panoramic windows offer the best views of the Rockies, the Sierra Nevadas, and the Great Salt Lake along the route.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Denver to Chicago

The distance between Denver and Chicago is approximately 918 miles, or 1478 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 22 hours and 16 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 18 hours and 40 minutes.

Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Denver to Chicago on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Denver at 6:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 6:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

Trains leave the station in Denver twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Chicago faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Denver.

City Information

Denver

Denver, CO - DEN-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Denver, CO - DEN-1

Image credit: Unsplash

Denver, CO - DEN-2

Image credit: Unsplash

Denver is the capital of Colorado, as well as the most populous city in the state. With buildings dating back to the 19th century, Denver is considered one of the most exemplary cities of the Old West era in the United States.

Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a preferred destination for young travelers seeking the thrill of the slopes during the day and the vibrant nightlife activities only an urban setting can provide. In fact, Denver is among the biggest party cities in the U.S. and one of the craft beer capitals in the country. In addition, thanks to the diverse local crowd, Denver’s restaurant scene offers top-notch options from various world cuisines.

If you’re looking for a more quiet time during your stay, head to one of the many unique museums in town such as the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts, or the Molly Brown House Museum. Craving a feast to the eyes and some fresh air? Check out the spectacular Denver Botanic Gardens.

As the biggest city in the Mountain states and a top Colorado destination, Denver is a busy travel hub. Even though the Denver airport is on the city’s outskirts, it is still easily accessible. If you are traveling to Denver by bus or train, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver from where you can easily get anywhere in the city.

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Denver?

Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street - DENAMT-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Main departure station: Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street

Denver’s Union Station first opened in 1881, and houses some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. There is even a seasonal farmers market at the station! But first and foremost, Union Station is the primary transport hub for Denver. The station is served by Amtrak trains, and intercity buses operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines and Express Arrow. From Union Station, travelers can also easily access Denver International Airport on the A Line commuter rail.

All train stations in Denver:

  • Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

Train stations in Chicago:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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