5.0
Pros: I love the train. It was wonderful but needs wifi. The bus was great clean and well driven. Cons: WiFI on train. Tips: Don't miss the starlite express, fabulous.
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Trip Summary
There are 9 daily trains from Davis to San Luis Obispo. Traveling by train from Davis to San Luis Obispo usually takes around 8 hours and 37 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 7 hours and 5 minutes.
| Distance | 233 mi (375 km) |
| Fastest train | 7h 5m |
| Lowest price | US$35.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Overall score for trains from Davis to San Luis Obispo
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
What is the price of a train ticket from Davis to San Luis Obispo?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Davis to San Luis Obispo was US$63.48. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to San Luis Obispo if you book your train tickets at least 29 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra US$18.29.
Average prices by travel date
The average cost of a one-way train trip from Davis to San Luis Obispo is expected to fluctuate between US$62 and US$68 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to San Luis Obispo in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Davis is US$64.
Monthly average prices
Mark your calendar for June if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Davis to San Luis Obispo. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of US$54. If you're planning a trip from Davis to San Luis Obispo during July, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about US$65 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Davis to San Luis Obispo, book online with Wanderu at least 29 days in advance. That way, you’ll save US$18.29 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Davis to San Luis Obispo?
2 train services operate from Davis to San Luis Obispo. 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 | 8h 39m | US$66.05 |
| Amtrak Coast Starlight | 1 | 8h 19m | US$82.75 |
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 8 Amtrak trains from Davis to San Luis Obispo every day, as well as 13 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$35.
The Coast Starlight is an Amtrak train that travels the entire length of the West Coast, connecting Los Angeles to Seattle. The route starts hugging the California coastline, treating passengers to swoon-worthy views of the Pacific, before continuing into the verdant forests of the Cascade Mountains. The Coast Starlight indisputably earns its spot among the most scenic Amtrak train routes. Seating options include Coach or Business Class and roomettes or bedrooms for extra space. A trip from Davis to San Luis Obispo takes 8 hours and 19 minutes on average, and Coach tickets start at US$46.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Davis to San Luis Obispo. 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.
The distance between Davis and San Luis Obispo is approximately 233 miles, or 375 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 37 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 5 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.
Thursday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Davis to San Luis Obispo. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Thursday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Davis at 05:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 20:00. 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 9 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Davis to San Luis Obispo. 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 San Luis Obispo to Davis.
City Information
Davis
Davis, located west of Sacramento in California, is famous for its small-town charm, green spaces, and bike-friendliness. Bring your bike to enjoy 50 miles of bicycle paths packed into the city, and pedal just about anywhere – including to the US Bicycling Hall of Fame, complete with antique bikes and trophies. Or, if you’d prefer to stay on your own two feet, talk a walk through any of the 399 acres of park land with picnic spots and sports fields. Swing by Central Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays to bag some fresh fruit and veggies at the Davis Farmers Market.
The event of the year is the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, held in mid-April at Sudwerk Brewery. This hanami-inspired event celebrates Japanese and Asian culture with live music, local artist galleries, seasonal beer, and cultural activities like mochi pounding. The best part? The whole event is a fundraiser, usually supporting one or more charities.
Other unique attractions in Davis include the California Raptor Center, an educational and research facility, and the UC Davis Arboretum, botanical garden and research center. Pick your own boysenberries, blackberries, and cherries at Impossible Acres, just east of town. The Explorit Science Center is an interactive science museum perfect for hands-on kiddos– and adults.
For food and entertainment, visit Roots Of Happiness, a coffee and tea lounge with karaoke and a piano. Check out Putah Creek Winery to learn about (and taste) a variety of different wines. The Artery is the perfect place to find decor, gifts, jewelry and more all while supporting local artists in Davis.
Amtrak Station is the central train station in Davis, and trains connect to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Seattle. There are three main bus stops across the city with service from Flixbus and Amtrak Thruway, including popular routes from Sacramento – making it easy to get to the nearest airport, the Sacramento International Airport.
San Luis Obispo
San Luis is a remarkable city known for accommodating travelers with different intents - those looking for nightlife, a laid-back experience, or a healthy mix of both. It is also known for its outstanding farmers' market with some of the best fruits and veggies in all of California. The historic Spanish Mission, art galleries, museums, wine, craft beer tasting room, and great restaurants can provide any type of fun you're looking for in the Sunshine State.
Want a truly unique experience? Swing by Bubblegum Alley, with walls lined with chewed bubblegum. Leave some yourself to make your mark! Or, for more traditional art, visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, with galleries displaying work by contemporary California artists.
SLO has two major bus and train stations in San Luis - 1011 Railroad Ave and Grand Avenue, Building 113. FlixBus and Amtrak Thruway buses both service the town for bus transport, and Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight provide train options. There is also a county airport that lets you fly in from wherever you are in the world and is located just two miles from the main city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Davis?
Main departure station: Amtrak Station - 840 Second St
There is one train station in Davis.
All train stations in Davis:
Amtrak Station - 840 Second St
Where is the train station in San Luis Obispo?
Main arrival station: 1 Grand Avenue, Building 113
San Luis Obispo receives travelers from Davis at its two active train stations.
Train stations in San Luis Obispo:
1 Grand Avenue, Building 113
1011 Railroad Ave
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