Cheap train tickets from Tacoma to Chicago

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Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Tacoma to Chicago. Travelling by train from Tacoma to Chicago usually takes 2 days, 11 hours and 13 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 2 days, 1 hour and 32 minutes.

Distance
1738 mi (2797 km)
Fastest train
49h 32m
Lowest price
$411.59
Trains per day
5
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
1

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Tacoma to Chicago Train Schedule

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What is the price of a train ticket from Tacoma to Chicago?

In the last month, train tickets from Tacoma to Chicago cost about $452 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Tacoma and Chicago, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $1,465.74 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Tacoma to Chicago by travel date

$720$480$240NovNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Tacoma to Chicago will cost between $452 and $710. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Tacoma to Chicago by month

$1,300$1,040$780$520$260JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Tacoma to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $430. If you're thinking of travelling from Tacoma to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $1,295 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$1,925$1,540$1,155$770$385020

By booking your train trip from Tacoma to Chicago on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about $1,465.74 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Tacoma to Chicago?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Tacoma to Chicago. However, there are 5 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak559h 13m$748.15
  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railway 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 washroom, 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 5 Amtrak trains from Tacoma to Chicago every day, as well as 5 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $411.59.

    Amtrak train passing through mountains, offering affordable train tickets for scenic rail travel - WanderuModern Amtrak train at a station, providing cheap train travel and convenient Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak train speeding through scenic fall foliage, featuring cheap train tickets for long-distance trips - WanderuInterior view of a table in the dining car of an Amtrak train - WanderuInterior view of the dining car on an Amtrak train. Find affordable train tickets on - WanderuClean and spacious Amtrak bathroom, offering convenience and comfort for passengers during long train journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak power outlet for charging devices, providing convenience for passengers during affordable travel with cheap train tickets - WanderuComfortable Amtrak seats with ample legroom, ideal for relaxing during long journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuSpacious Amtrak seats with reclining options, offering comfort and convenience for passengers on affordable train travel - WanderuAmtrak viewing car seats with large windows, offering panoramic views and comfort for passengers enjoying scenic routes with affordable train tickets - Wanderu

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Tacoma to Chicago

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Tacoma to Chicago. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Tacoma.

Trains per day

5

Direct trains

0

The distance between Tacoma and Chicago is approximately 2,797 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 days, 11 hours and 13 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 days, 1 hour and 32 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.

Distance (mi)

1738

Distance (km)

2797

The earliest train departs Tacoma at 9:18 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 1:13 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

9:18am

Last train

1:13pm

Trains from Tacoma to Chicago are the most crowded on Thursday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Thursday

Least crowded

Monday

City Information

Tacoma

TAC-0TAC-1TAC-2

Tacoma has seen some hard times in recent years, but the city is receiving many new revival attempts, turning it into a charming town with its own unique attractions. For those interested in the history of the city, as well as the creativity of its residents, head towards the Museum District, which houses numerous interesting museums such as the Tacoma Art Museum and the Washington State History Museum. While in the area, don’t miss out on the chance to marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Bridge of Glass. If you wish to enjoy a bit of outdoor air, diving into the cold water of American Lake in Lakewood in the morning is bound to make you happy.

Seafood has always been among Tacoma’s finest offerings, and the best place to enjoy these dishes is Duke’s Chowder House, which features a bay view. For a more exquisite taste, head over to Indochine, a pan-Asian restaurant featuring mouth watering dishes.

The main bus station and the Amtrak train station in Tacoma are both near downtown, just a few blocks from each other. Tacoma is served by Amtrak’s Cascades and Coast Starlight lines. The city’s main airport is Seattle–Tacoma International and it sits 22 miles north of the city.

Chicago

CHI-0CHI-1CHI-2

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 neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, 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 Tacoma?

Main departure station: 422 E. 25th St.

422 E 25th Ave  - TACAMT-0

The Amtrak station in Tacoma is located at 422 E 25th St, near I-5 and close to the Tacoma Dome. The Tacoma Dome Station is served by Amtrak Cascades, which travels between Vancouver, BC, Seattle, Portland, and Eugene, and Amtrak’s Coast Starlight from Seattle to Los Angeles. Local Sound Transit's commuter rail station is next door. The bus terminal on Puyallup Ave is across the street from the train station complex for easy transfers to local or intercity buses. The station complex includes two parking garages and a customer service centre with washrooms and vending machines. Nearby attractions in Tacoma include Freighthouse Square, a shopping mall inside an old depot, and several museums like the Washington State History Museum and the Museum of Glass.

All train stations in Tacoma:

  • 422 E. 25th St.

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main arrival station: Union Station

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0CHIUST-2

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.

All train stations in Chicago:

  • Union Station

Need a return trip from Chicago to Tacoma?

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