Cheap train tickets from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL

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Trip Summary

There are usually 10 daily train trips available from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. Travelling by train from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL usually takes 2 days, 10 hours and 50 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 1 day, 21 hours and 36 minutes.

Distance: 1753 mi (2821 km)
Fastest train: 45h 36m
Lowest price: NOK 1,548.73
Trains per day: 10
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 2

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Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL Train Timetable

There are several train options that can take you from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL?

In the last month, train tickets from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL cost about NOK 2,179 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around NOK 6,557.75 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL will cost between NOK 1,964 and NOK 7,271. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL by month

Ticket prices for the train from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL 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 NOK 3,012. If you're thinking of travelling from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of NOK 5,109 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about NOK 6,557.75 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL?

2 train services operate from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 8 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	8	62h 13m	NOK 3,828.74
Amtrak Empire Builder	2	45h 37m	NOK 4,148.56

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 8 Amtrak trains from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL every day, as well as 9 trips at the weekends, with prices starting from NOK 1,614.84.
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. 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 10 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. 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 Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL is approximately 1,753 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 days, 10 hours and 50 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day, 21 hours and 36 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)

1753

Distance (km)

2821

The earliest train departs Vancouver, WA at 7:03 while the last train of the day leaves at 17:09. 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

7:03am

Last train

5:09pm

Trains from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL 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 travelling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Saturday

Least crowded

Wednesday

City Information

Vancouver

Vancouver sits on the northern banks of the Columbia River in Washington and is the state's fourth most populated city. The surrounding Cascade Mountains offer incredible Pacific Northwest adventures. Mount Saint Helens and Mount Hood, two snow-topped volcanoes, are within short drives of Vancouver for easy access to hikes and ski runs. Beacon Rock State Park includes a trail to the summit of a monolithic rock formation. Plus, the Columbia River Gorge is easily one of the best destinations in Washington for breathtaking scenery.

Vancouver is located just across the Columbia from Portland, and Interstates 5 and 205 have north to south bridges connecting Portland to Vancouver. Within the city, you will find Vancouver's mass transit system, C-Tran, to get around with ease.

Several Amtrak services operate from Vancouver, including the Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, and Cascades routes. If you're arriving by air, the nearest airport is Portland International Airport, just a few minutes' drive from downtown Vancouver.

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.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Vancouver, WA?

Main departure station: 1301 W 11th St

There are two stations in Vancouver, WA where you can board the train to Chicago, IL.

All train stations in Vancouver, WA:

1301 W 11th St
Portland International Airport

Where is the train station in Chicago, IL?

Main arrival 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.

Train stations in Chicago, IL:

Union Station

Need a return trip from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA?

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