Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL Train - Amtrak Tickets CHF 168

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Richmond to Chicago Train Schedule

Trip Summary

3 trains operate daily from Richmond to Chicago. The train trip from Richmond to Chicago is usually about 55 hours and 16 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 52 hours and 4 minutes.

	Distance	1847 mi (2973 km)
	Fastest train	52h 4m
	Lowest price	CHF 167.62
	Trains per day	1
	Most frequent service	Amtrak
	Train lines	2

What is the price of a train ticket from Richmond to Chicago?

The average price for a train ticket from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL is CHF 172.15, The lengthy distance traveled between Richmond and Chicago 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 CHF 387.98 more.

Monthly avg. prices

Mark your calendar for April if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Richmond to Chicago. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of CHF 174. If you're planning a trip from Richmond to Chicago during November, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about CHF 272 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 Richmond to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 28 days in advance. That way, you’ll save CHF 387.98 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Richmond to Chicago?

2 train services operate from Richmond to Chicago. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	2	2d 9h 25m	CHF 237.23
Amtrak California Zephyr	1	2d 4h 4m	CHF 581.76

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 2 Amtrak trains from Richmond to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 142.
Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Richmond to Chicago

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Richmond to Chicago. 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 Richmond and Chicago is approximately 1847 miles, or 2973 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 55 hours and 16 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 52 hours and 4 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 Richmond 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 Sunday. Sunday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Richmond at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00am. 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Richmond to Chicago. 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 Chicago to Richmond.

City Information

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.

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 Richmond?

Main departure station: BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave

There is one train station in Richmond.

All train stations in Richmond:

BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave

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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