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Grand Junction - Chicago Train Timetable
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Trip Summary
There is usually just one train option from Grand Junction to Chicago per day. The average train journey from Grand Junction to Chicago takes 27 hours and 46 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 1114 mi (1792 km) |
| Fastest train | 27h 46m |
| Lowest price | €110.12 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak California Zephyr |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Grand Junction to Chicago?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Grand Junction to Chicago was €110.12. Tickets for this route are somewhat expensive, given the distance between Grand Junction and Chicago. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Chicago if you book your train tickets at least 10 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra €56.46.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Grand Junction to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in November when the average ticket price is only €117,
If you're thinking of traveling from Grand Junction to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of €251 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 want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 10 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Chicago from Grand Junction will be about €56.46 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Grand Junction to Chicago?
Amtrak California Zephyr is the one and only train line which connects Grand Junction to Chicago. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 1d 3h 46m | €130.17 |
Amtrak’s California Zephyr travels over 2,400 miles to connect Chicago to the San Francisco area. The full journey takes over 50 hours, so many passengers upgrade to a sleeper cabin for added privacy and comfort. The Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, and the sightseer lounge’s panoramic windows offer the best views of the Rockies, the Sierra Nevadas, and the Great Salt Lake along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Grand Junction and Chicago is approximately 1114 miles, or 1792 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 27 hours and 46 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Grand Junction to Chicago on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Grand Junction at 09:00 and arrives in Chicago around 27 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Grand Junction.
City Information
Grand Junction
Image credit: Unsplash
Grand Junction is a popular wine destination about four hours west of Denver and close to Colorado's border with Utah. The area is home to over 30 wineries with award-winning red wines and breathtaking views. While any vineyard or winery is worth the tour, consider booking a room to stay a while in the Chateau at Two Rivers Winery.
The Colorado River and the red rock formations around Grand Junction make the area ideal for exploring the outdoors. Take in the incredible plateau and canyon vistas at the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction, easily one of the best destinations in Colorado. Spot wild horses on the trail to the Mount Garfield summit, or spend a serene day fishing at James M. Robb State Park.
Grand Junction Airport has direct flights to a handful of western cities, but taking the train is more convenient for connections to further destinations. The Amtrak California Zephyr stops in Grand Junction on its route from Chicago to Emeryville, with additional stops in Denver and Salt Lake City. Jefferson Lines buses also stop in the city, heading to destinations across the midwest.
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 Grand Junction?
Main departure station: 339 S 1st St
There is one train station in Grand Junction.
All train stations in Grand Junction:
339 S 1st St
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main arrival 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.
Train stations in Chicago:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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