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Trip Summary
4 trains operate daily from Chicago to Richmond. The train trip from Chicago to Richmond is usually about 57 hours and 22 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can get you there in as little as 51 hours and 59 minutes.
| Distance | 1847 mi (2973 km) |
| Fastest train | 51h 59m |
| Lowest price | US$99.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Richmond?
The average price for a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA is US$215.48, The lengthy distance traveled between Chicago and Richmond often means relatively more expensive train tickets. By booking your trip at least 28 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay US$140.79 more.
Average prices by travel date
The average cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Richmond is expected to fluctuate between US$192 and US$255 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Richmond in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Chicago is US$205.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Richmond often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in April when the average ticket price is only US$217,
If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Richmond during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$419 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 28 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Richmond from Chicago will be about US$140.79 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Chicago to Richmond?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Richmond. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 3 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 2d 11h 3m | US$259.02 |
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 2d 4h 38m | US$168.91 |
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 Richmond every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$130.
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 Chicago and Richmond is approximately 1847 miles, or 2973 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 57 hours and 22 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 51 hours and 59 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 Chicago to Richmond 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.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 13:00 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 4 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Richmond. 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 Richmond 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.
Richmond
Image credit: Unsplash
Richmond is a city in the South Francisco Bay Area, popular for its rich naval history, specifically its role in the World War 2 home front. During this time, thousands of workers moved to the city to support wartime industries. Richmond features different waterfront neighborhoods and houses facing the river with miles of waterfront areas. Richmond offers its residents scenic parks, shorelines, and outdoor spaces, including Tilden Regional Park, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, and Regional Parks Botanic Garden. The city also has some unique places to check out, like the Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, which combines a park with a rail museum, and the Redwood Valley Railway.
In Richmond, there are exciting things to do, like zipline adventures in Sonoma and Brazen Racing. The city boasts a fast-growing craft beer scene, with popular names like Fieldwork Brewing and East Brother Beer Company. You can time your visit to participate in the Richmond Main Street Initiative, beer and food, and art festivals. For shopping and restaurants, check out Downtown Richmond.
Richmond is easily accessible from 137 other cities by train, with most trains provided by Amtrak Capitol Corridor. If you prefer to travel by bus, you can follow the routes provided by FlixBus US US from tens of other cities. Within Richmond, there are dedicated public transit routes through BART and Amtrak.
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 Richmond?
Main arrival station: BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
Richmond has one train station.
Train stations in Richmond:
BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Richmond to Chicago?
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