5.0
Pros: Good space, on time, helpful staff, good red cap help. Cons: I had difficulty purchasing my ticket. Nowhere to designate request for first level. Red cap and conductor arranged it.
Cheap train tickets from Chicago to La Plata
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Chicago to La Plata Train Timetable
Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Chicago to La Plata. The train trip from Chicago to La Plata is usually about 8 hours and 13 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can get you there in as little as 4 hours and 52 minutes.
| Distance | 284 mi (457 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 52m |
| Lowest price | £36.75 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to La Plata
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.5
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to La Plata?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to La Plata was £46.95. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to La Plata if you book your train tickets at least 15 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra £65.54.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to La Plata by travel date
The average cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to La Plata is expected to fluctuate between £44 and £114 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to La Plata in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Chicago is £54.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to La Plata by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to La Plata often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only £57,
If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to La Plata during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of £91 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Chicago to La Plata, book online with Wanderu at least 15 days in advance. That way, you’ll save £65.54 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Chicago to La Plata?
2 train services operate from Chicago to La Plata. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 11h 37m | £62.00 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 4h 52m | £86.08 |
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 Chicago to La Plata every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £37.
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 La Plata in about 4 hours and 52 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 traveling by train from Chicago to La Plata
The distance between Chicago and La Plata is approximately 284 miles, or 457 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 13 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 52 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 from Chicago to La Plata are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 traveling on Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 07:00 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.
Trains leave the station in Chicago 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 La Plata 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 La Plata 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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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 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
Where is the train station in La Plata?
Main arrival station: 535 N Owensby St
La Plata has one train station.
Train stations in La Plata:
535 N Owensby St
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