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There are 2 daily trains from Plano to Chicago. Traveling by train from Plano to Chicago usually takes around one hour and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Illinois Zephyr train can make the trip in one hour and 9 minutes.
| Distance | 49 mi (79 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 9m |
| Lowest price | PLN 32.19 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Carl Sandburg |
| Train lines | 2 |
Overall score for trains from Plano to Chicago
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: Very clean train. Cons: Seats should recline just a bit.
4.0
Pros: Smooth, direct and comfortable. Cons: The train was 1 hour late for trip into Chicago. Heard it was engine problem😳. Tips: Dress warm Incase train is late as the depot was not open.
Over the past month, a train ticket between Plano and Chicago cost PLN 36.21, on average. This is about as cheap as train fares get on this route. Booking your trip at least 13 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around PLN 5.35 more.
2 train services operate from Plano to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Carl Sandburg | 1 | 1h 13m | PLN 41.76 |
| Amtrak Illinois Zephyr | 1 | 1h 9m | PLN 48.89 |
The Amtrak Carl Sandburg, named after the Pulitzer-winning author, is a sister service to the Illinois Zephyr. Both operate daily services between Chicago and Quincy with additional stops in Naperville and Kewanee. Whether you buy a coach class or business class ticket, you'll have plenty of legroom and complimentary WiFi, plus access to refreshments at the onboard cafe.
The Illinois Zephyr is a passenger train operated by Amtrak, running between Quincy and Chicago. Taking the train from Plano to Chicago is a comfortable option, and tickets on this route cost on average. The Illinois Zephyr and its sister train, the Carl Sandburg, serve one of Amtrak's most popular lines. The train features amenities such as airline-style coach seating, a cafe on board, power outlets, restrooms, and Wi-Fi.
Trains departing from Plano to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Sunday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Sunday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Saturday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Plano at 9:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. 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 Plano twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Plano.
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.
There is one train station in Plano.
101 W Main St
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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.
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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