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Trip Summary
There are 3 daily trains from Chicago to Solana Beach. Traveling by train from Chicago to Solana Beach usually takes around 61 hours and 30 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 47 hours and 32 minutes.
| Distance | 1728 mi (2780 km) |
| Fastest train | 47h 32m |
| Lowest price | £254.26 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Chicago to Solana Beach?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Solana Beach. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 2d 13h 31m | £343.09 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Solana Beach every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £254.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Solana Beach is approximately 1728 miles, or 2780 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 61 hours and 30 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 47 hours 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.
Trains departing from Chicago to Solana Beach tend to have the most passengers on Friday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Friday. 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 Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 14:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 14:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 3 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 Solana Beach to Chicago.
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 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.
Solana Beach
Solana Beach is a small coastal city in San Diego. Its name directly translates to 'warm wind' due to its sunny position by the beach. Some of the best activities in the city involve the sunny coast, like visiting Fletcher Cove Beach Park or going to Seascape Surf Park. You can also enjoy snorkeling, surfing, and fishing trips out on the Pacific. The area is well-known for its classic Californian hiking, with trails such as Annie's Canyon and the Coastal Rails Trail. When you've worked up an appetite, head to the famous Fish Market, which serves fresh-caught Californian seafood.
For air travel, the San Diego Airport is the closest. The city is also on Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner route, which runs from Los Angeles, Fullerton, and Santa Ana to Solana Beach. If you'd prefer to take the bus, the Amtrak Thruway also operates in Solana Beach to connect from nearby cities like Los Angeles, Bakersfield, and Santa Barbara.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure 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.
All train stations in Chicago:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Where is the train station in Solana Beach?
Main arrival station: 105 N Cedros Ave - Solana Beach Transit Ctr
Solana Beach has one train station.
Train stations in Solana Beach:
105 N Cedros Ave - Solana Beach Transit Ctr
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