Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Monterey
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Chicago to Monterey. Traveling by train from Chicago to Monterey usually takes 55 hours and 41 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 55 hours and 30 minutes.
| Distance | 1857 mi (2988 km) |
| Fastest train | 55h 30m |
| Lowest price | $368.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Chicago to Monterey Train Schedule
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Monterey:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Monterey?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Monterey was $371.20. Considering the distance between Chicago and Monterey, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 1 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $32.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Monterey by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Monterey often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in May when the average ticket price is only $310. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Monterey during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $488 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Monterey on Wanderu at least 1 days ahead of time, you can save about $32.00 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Monterey?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Monterey. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 55h 41m | $387.20 |
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Monterey
The distance between Chicago and Monterey is approximately 1857 miles, or 2988 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 55 hours and 41 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 55 hours and 30 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)
1857
Distance (km)
2988
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 1:30pm and arrives in Monterey around 55 hours later.
First train
1:30pm
Last train
1:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Monterey are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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.
Busiest
Wednesday
Least crowded
Wednesday
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station 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 is the train station in Monterey?
Main arrival station: Monterey (Calle Principal Parking Garage), California
There are more train stations and stops in Monterey than most cities. Most trains from Chicago will stop at one (or more) of the 5 following stations in Monterey:
All train stations in Monterey:
- Monterey (Calle Principal Parking Garage), California
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- 500 Tyler St
- 1 Old Golf Course Rd
- 351 Fremont St
Plan your next adventure
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