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Chicago to Modesto train

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Chicago - Modesto Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

3 trains operate daily from Chicago to Modesto. The train trip from Chicago to Modesto is usually about 56 hours and 46 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 51 hours and 11 minutes.

Distance1785 mi (2872 km)
Fastest train51h 11m
Lowest price$160.00
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines1

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

The average price for a train ticket from Chicago to Modesto is $206.00, The lengthy distance traveled between Chicago and Modesto often means relatively more expensive train tickets. By booking your trip at least 11 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 $85.00 more.

Monthly avg. prices

$375$300$225$150$75AMJJASONDJFM
Mark your calendar for February if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Modesto. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of $219. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Modesto during November, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about $364 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Which train should you take from Chicago to Modesto?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Modesto. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak32d 8h 47m$227.25
  • 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 Modesto every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $160.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Modesto. 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 Chicago and Modesto is approximately 1785 miles, or 2872 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 56 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 51 hours and 11 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 Modesto 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 Monday. Monday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 2:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00pm. 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 3 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 Modesto 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.

Modesto

Modesto, CA, US - MOD-0

Image credit: Tom Hilton

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Modesto is a city in Central Valley, California. The city is known for its large agricultural industry and number of museums. Modesto is home to museums, natural history sites, and planetariums, like the Great Valley Museum and McHenry Museum. It also has different amusement and recreational centers offering playgrounds, rides, go-cart, and more, like Funworks Modesto and Graceada Park. As for nature lovers, Modesto features places for sports, hiking, camping, fishing, and picnics, like Jacob Myers Park and Ceres River Bluff Regional Park. The city is also a fun place for arts with the Graffiti Summer and the Gallo Center for the Arts.

The CA city is ideal for all craft beer and wine lovers, as it has several breweries and wineries to visit. Modesto also has a vibrant nightlife, with different nightclubs, lounges, bars, and restaurants, and is always brimming with pool parties, trance festivals, DJ nights, and more. Downtown Modesto has become a vibrant place for shopping, dining, and parties.

Modesto features several train and bus lines for those in and around the city. The city is easily accessible by Amtrak and Amtrak San Joaquins for trains, while Tufesa Plus offers bus services. The City of Modesto Transit Services powers the city's transportation.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

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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 Modesto?

Main arrival station: 1700 Held Dr

Modesto has one train station.

All train stations in Modesto:

  • 1700 Held Dr

Get around town with Moovit

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Need a return trip from Modesto to Chicago?

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