Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Tucson
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Trip Summary
There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Chicago to Tucson. Traveling by train from Chicago to Tucson usually takes 56 hours and 57 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Texas Eagle train can make the trip in 54 hours and 50 minutes.
| Distance | 1441 mi (2319 km) |
| Fastest train | 54h 50m |
| Lowest price | $182.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Tucson Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Tucson?
There are usually 7 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Tucson.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$438.74 | Avg. Price$291.91Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips5 | Daily Trips7 |
Duration | Duration56h 57m | Duration48h 30mFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Tucson (Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Tucson:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Tucson?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Tucson was $269.24. Considering the distance between Chicago and Tucson, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $551.07 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Tucson by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Tucson will cost between $229 and $693. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Tucson by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Tucson often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $298. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Tucson during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $547 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Tucson on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $551.07 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Tucson?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Tucson, including Amtrak, Amtrak Texas Eagle. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 58h 29m | $385.27 |
| Amtrak Texas Eagle | 2 | 54h 50m | $512.87 |
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 Tucson every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $211.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Tucson
There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Tucson. 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 Tucson to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Tucson for $147.
TRIPS PER DAY
5
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Chicago and Tucson is approximately 1441 miles, or 2319 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 56 hours and 57 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 54 hours and 50 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)
1441
DISTANCE (KM)
2319
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:10pm. 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
7:15am
LATEST TRAIN
2:10pm
Trains from Chicago to Tucson are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
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.
Tucson
A bright and sunny city with more than 350 days of sunshine and temperatures that rarely dip below 60, Tucson is undoubtedly one of Arizona's best vacation destinations. Those who don’t shy away from some outdoor activities should go on a hiking trip in the Saguaro National Park, where visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of southwestern landscapes. Of the park's two areas, the Tucson Mountain District is the more popular one, owing to its amazing sunset views. Architecture fans could also consider visiting Mission San Xavier del Bac, a perfect example of 18th-century architecture. If you wish to learn more about the region and its unique flora and fauna, head over to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which features 230 animal species and 1,200 local plant species.
It should come as no surprise that the most famous dishes in Tucson are Mexican foods, which boast spicy, sweet and smoky flavors. One of the best spots to enjoy these delicacies is at El Charro Café, which has been around since 1922. For a more eclectic menu, Feast is a good option.
The principal Amtrak train station in Tucson is on Toole Ave. The city is served by Amtrak’s Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited lines. The main bus station is the bus terminal located at 801 E 12th St, not too far from the train station. The city’s commercial air services are fulfilled by Tucson International Airport, which is 6 miles south of the city’s center.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from in Chicago?
Main departure 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
Where does the train arrive in Tucson?
Main arrival station: 400 N Toole Ave
The Amtrak station in Tucson is located on Toole Street in the Historic Fourth Avenue neighborhood. The station was built in 1907, and the neighboring Southern Arizona Transportation Museum displays railroad artifacts and a vintage locomotive from the station’s early days. Today, Amtrak’s Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle routes run through Tucson, heading towards Los Angeles, New Orleans, or Chicago. The station is comfortably appointed with clean bathrooms, charging ports, and indoor seating. Many top-rated dining options surround the station, but travelers can enjoy the best pre-train cocktail at the Congress Tap Room’s outdoor patio just across the street.
All train stations in Tucson:
- 400 N Toole Ave
Need a return trip from Tucson to Chicago?
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