Cheap train tickets from Fresno to Chicago
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Fresno to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Fresno to Chicago?
There are usually 1 daily bus trips available from Fresno to Chicago.
Bus | Train | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceNOK 2,451.85 | Avg. PriceNOK 3,759.21 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips1 | Daily Trips7 |
Duration | Duration2d 5h 40m | Duration2d 11h 11m |
Trip Summary
There are usually 7 daily train trips available from Fresno to Chicago. Traveling by train from Fresno to Chicago usually takes 58 hours and 57 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 48 hours and 53 minutes.
| Distance | 1744 mi (2806 km) |
| Fastest train | 48h 53m |
| Lowest price | NOK 1,951.43 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |

What is the price of a train ticket from Fresno to Chicago?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Fresno to Chicago was NOK 3,206.98. Train tickets on this route are typically priced higher due to the distance covered. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Chicago if you book your train tickets at least 16 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra NOK 797.53.
Average train ticket prices from Fresno to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Fresno to Chicago will cost between NOK 2,942 and NOK 4,802. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Monthly avg. prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Fresno to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 16 days in advance. That way, you’ll save NOK 797.53 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Fresno to Chicago?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Fresno to Chicago. However, there are 7 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 7 | 2d 10h 58m | NOK 3,573.06 |
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 7 Amtrak trains from Fresno to Chicago every day, as well as 8 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from NOK 1,951.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Fresno to Chicago
The distance between Fresno and Chicago is approximately 1744 miles, or 2806 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 58 hours and 57 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 48 hours and 53 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 Fresno to Chicago on Thursday. Tickets for Thursday 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 Fresno at 9:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 6:00pm. 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 7 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 Fresno.
City Information
Fresno



Situated close to the center of California, Fresno’s location makes it the perfect hub for travelers who wish to explore the state, but it also has enough attractions on its own to keep visitors interested. One of the city’s most unique destinations is the Forestiere Underground Gardens. Built by a Sicilian immigrant, the gardens stay below the ground level so that citrus trees could grow, making it a unique sight that will capture the heart of nature lovers. Fresno has recently gone through a lot of changes in the field of agriculture, and the city’s love for homegrown produce is now one of its attractions. As you explore the city, don’t hesitate to make a slight detour to Riverdance Farm, a local organic farm where you can pick ripened blueberries and cherries to your heart’s content. For fans of cultural activities, the Fresno Art Museum offers unique artworks created mostly by local artists.
Fresno restaurants are famous for their fresh homegrown produce, and Sam’s Italian Deli & Market is where you can try local staples. If you want to cook yourself, Fresno Farmers’ Market will be a great choice.
Fresno’s main bus and train station is the Santa Fe Passenger Depot located at 2650 Tulare St. From there, you can take buses from various carriers or hop on a train on Amtrak’s Gold Runner line. The Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the city’s main airport and it is located not too far from the city center.
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 Fresno?

Image credit: Ron Reiring
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Mattias Thorslund
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St
The Santa Fe Station is a historic train station and transportation hub in Fresno. The station opened in 1899 and was originally owned by the Santa Fe Railway, hence the misleading “Santa Fe” name for a station in Fresno. Passengers can board the Amtrak Gold Runner train to Oakland, Sacramento, or Bakersfield from this station, and bus service from Amtrak Thruway and Jefferson Lines also stops at this location. The Santa Fe station is just steps away from Fresno’s City Hall, the Meux Home Museum, and the Fresno Convention Center, making this station a convenient entry point to Fresno.
All train stations in Fresno:
Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St
Where is the train station in Chicago?

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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
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