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Cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA. Traveling by train from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA usually takes 2 days and 12 hours, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 2 days, 4 hours, and 47 minutes.
- Distance
- 1847 mi (2973 km)
- Fastest train
- 52h 47m
- Lowest price
- €160.59
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA Train Schedule
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA cost about €260 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Chicago, IL and Richmond, CA, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around €354.94 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA will cost between €165 and €675. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only €257. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of €466 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, IL to Richmond, CA on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about €354.94 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA?
2 train services operate from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA. 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 | 64h | €296.51 |
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 52h 50m | €369.07 |
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 Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from €168.66.
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 Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA. 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.
There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA. 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 Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago, IL and Richmond, CA is approximately 1,847 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 days and 12 hours, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 days, 4 hours, and 47 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)
1847
Distance (km)
2973
The earliest train departs Chicago, IL at 7:40 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 2:10 PM. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
7:40am
Last train
2:10pm
Trains from Chicago, IL to Richmond, CA are the most crowded on Friday. 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Friday
Least crowded
Monday
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.
Richmond
Richmond is a city in the San 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 and around 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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago, IL?
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, IL:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Richmond, CA?
Main arrival station: BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
Richmond, CA has one train station.
All train stations in Richmond, CA:
- BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
Need a return trip from Richmond, CA to Chicago, IL?
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