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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Riverside
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Riverside. Travelling by train from Chicago to Riverside usually takes 2 days, 7 hours and 57 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 1 day, 18 hours and 10 minutes.
- Distance
- 1702 mi (2740 km)
- Fastest train
- 42h 10m
- Lowest price
- US$156.00
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Riverside Train Timetable
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Riverside:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Riverside?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Riverside cost about US$336 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Chicago and Riverside, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 8 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$162.25 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Riverside by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Riverside will cost between US$236 and US$841. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Riverside by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Riverside often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only US$260. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Riverside during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$446 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Riverside on Wanderu at least 8 days ahead of time, you can save about US$162.25 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Riverside?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Riverside. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 63h 10m | US$409.48 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 42h 11m | US$340.40 |
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 toilet, free WiFi and power sockets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Riverside every day, as well as 2 trips at the weekends, with prices starting from US$184.
The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to Riverside in about 1 day, 18 hours and 11 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Riverside
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Riverside. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a coach 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Riverside. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Riverside to Chicago.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Riverside is approximately 1,702 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 days, 7 hours and 57 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day, 18 hours and 10 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 patchy signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and films to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Distance (mi)
1702
Distance (km)
2740
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40 while the last train of the day leaves at 15:05. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full timetable for your specific travel dates.
First train
7:40am
Last train
3:05pm
Trains from Chicago to Riverside are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Tuesday
Least crowded
Wednesday
City Information
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 holiday 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 transport 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 coach and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Riverside
Riverside is the most populous city in the Inland Empire and the birthplace of the local citrus industry. One of the most popular buildings in the city is the Mission Inn, a historic landmark that is also the largest Mission Revival Style building in the country. The building is now a popular local hotel and spa, offering top-notch hospitality services. While nearby, don't forget to check out the Mission Inn Museum as well. If you are looking to enjoy a great panoramic view of the entire city, take a short hike to the top of Mount Rubidoux, and you will not be disappointed!
Riverside boasts a generally vibrant food scene with plenty of establishments to choose from. The Mission Inn itself offers incredible traditional Spanish dishes and a fabulous open-air patio dining spot. For seasonal produce and local dishes, check out Salted Pig!
Riverside is served by Amtrak trains and several coach companies that operate routes throughout Southern California and beyond. In addition, there are three major airports in Riverside's general area: Ontario International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and John Wayne Orange County Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station
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 coach 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
Where is the train station in Riverside?
Main arrival station: Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
On June 14, 1993, the Riverside station on Vine Street opened as a transport facility. It comprises a platform with modest shelters to shield visitors from the sun and adverse weather. On April 29, 2002, the station was added as a stop on the Southwest Chief route, putting an end to Amtrak trains just passing through Riverside without making a scheduled stop. In addition to Amtrak, the station now primarily operates as a Metrolink commuter rail and transit bus terminal.
Train stations in Riverside:
- Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
Need a return trip from Riverside to Chicago?
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