Cheap train tickets from Vancouver to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Vancouver to Chicago. Traveling by train from Vancouver to Chicago usually takes 66 hours and 30 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 51 hours and 15 minutes.
| Distance | 1773 mi (2853 km) |
| Fastest train | 51h 15m |
| Lowest price | $311.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Vancouver to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Vancouver to Chicago?
There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Vancouver to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$502.69 | Avg. Price$439.68Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration66h 30mFaster | Duration90h 23m |
There are several train options that can take you from Vancouver to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Vancouver to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Vancouver to Chicago was $447.64. Considering the distance between Vancouver and Chicago, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 26 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $200.46 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Vancouver to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Vancouver to Chicago will cost between $284 and $619. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Vancouver to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Vancouver to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only $347. If you're thinking of traveling from Vancouver to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $506 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
By booking your train trip from Vancouver to Chicago on Wanderu at least 26 days ahead of time, you can save about $200.46 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Vancouver to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Vancouver to Chicago, including Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 66h 30m | $502.69 |
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 4 Amtrak trains from Vancouver to Chicago every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $311.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Vancouver to Chicago
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Vancouver. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Vancouver to Chicago for $336.
TRIPS PER DAY
4
DIRECT TRIPS
0
The distance between Vancouver and Chicago is approximately 1773 miles, or 2853 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 66 hours and 30 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 51 hours and 15 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.
DISTANCE (MI)
1773
DISTANCE (KM)
2853
The earliest train departs Vancouver at 5:30am while the last train of the day leaves at 11:30am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
5:30am
LATEST TRAIN
11:30am
Trains from Vancouver to Chicago are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Tuesday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
City Information
Vancouver
Vancouver is a trendy diverse city in British Columbia, known for its eclectic shopping, fresh seafood, and unique scenic setting between snow-capped mountains and urban beaches. Vancouver is sometimes called "Hollywood North" due to the amount of movies and TV shows filmed in the area. If you're lucky, you may even stumble upon a movie set as you're walking around town!
If you're looking for the best restaurants, shops and nightlife, cobblestoned Gastown is the perfect neighborhood to explore. Biking around the gorgeous Stanley Park in downtown Vancouver is rivaled only by hiking and skiing on nearby Grouse Mountain, which offers stunning views of the city on clear days.
Vancouver International Airport is conveniently close to downtown, and also one of the biggest gateways for international travel on the West Coast of North America. From Vancouver, it's easy to travel into the U.S. to Seattle by bus or train, or to other B.C. destinations like Kamloops and Kelowna to experience more of the province's natural beauty.
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 does the train leave from in Vancouver?
Main departure station: Pacific Central Station
The historic Pacific Central Station is Vancouver’s primary train station for Amtrak and VIA Rail service, as well as a bus station for numerous carriers. The impressive Beaux-Arts style station opened in 1919, and is within walking distance of Science World, Strathcona Park, and the lively Gastown neighborhood. Plus, walking just across the street from Pacific Central Station gives you access to Vancouver's SkyTrain public transit system at the Main Street–Science World station. With free WiFi, restrooms, and several restaurants and shops on the premises, Pacific Central Station is a convenient place to start or end your trip.
All train stations in Vancouver:
- Pacific Central Station
Where does the train arrive in Chicago?
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 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
Need a return trip from Chicago to Vancouver?
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